Le Secret de Compostelle

Name of Cheese: Le Secret de Compostelle

Type of Cheese: Aged Sheep’s Milk

Country of Origin: Basque country 

Milk Type: Sheep, Raw

Vegetarian: No

Le Secret de Compostelle is made with raw sheep's milk in the Basque region of France. Its name comes from an old secret passage between the Spanish and French Basque regions where pilgrims moved freely trading recipes and information on their way to the city of Santiago de Compostela (In French Compostelle). There are rumors that when the French ran low on sheep's milk, they would use Spanish Basque milk. 

Aged for about eight months, the rind has a very pungent smell but the paste inside has a sweet aroma. The paste is perfectly balanced, sweet and savory with notes of caramel, toasted almonds and mushrooms. 

Monger’s Tip: Le Secret de Compostelle was introduced to me as a breakfast cheese on toast with cherry preserves. That is still my favorite way to enjoy it. But really it's an anytime, anywhere cheese (aren't they all?). Try it on its own at first to really appreciate its depth and complexity, then pair it with jamon serrano and green olives. Happy snacking!