Modena: Parmesan Cheese Tour & Tasting

Dive into the rich history and craftsmanship of Parmesan cheese with a guided tour of a traditional dairy followed by a delightful tasting experience. This visit will take you through the complete production process and introduce you to the distinct flavors of Parmesan cheeses aged to perfection, all paired with regional Lambrusco DOC wine. The experience begins at a local, family-run dairy that uses sustainable, organic farming methods. Your guide will introduce you to the dairy's closed-loop system, which starts in the fields where they grow organic feed for their cows. These cows produce the high-quality milk used to create authentic Parmesan cheese. You will follow the entire process, from the raw milk's transformation into cheese to the formation of the iconic wheels. As part of the tour, you'll witness each stage of the cheesemaking process, from curdling the milk to shaping the cheese into molds, and learn about the traditional techniques used to ensure the highest quality. After this, you'll enter the aging warehouse, a breathtaking sight where over 6,000 cheese wheels are stored for months, slowly developing the complex flavors Parmesan is known for. Your guide will explain the critical role aging plays, from 12 months to over 36 months, which enhances the texture and flavor of each wheel. The second part of your visit is all about tasting. You'll be guided through a tasting of Parmesan cheeses aged at different stages, each offering a unique profile—from young, mild flavors to the sharp, nutty characteristics of the award-winning cheeses aged for over 36 months. This carefully curated tasting highlights how time affects the cheese's flavor and texture, making each bite a new discovery. To complement the tasting, you'll enjoy a pairing with DOC Lambrusco, a sparkling red wine from the Emilia-Romagna region. The wine's bright, fruity notes and acidity provide a perfect counterbalance to the rich, savory flavors of the Parmesan. For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, mineral water will also be available, allowing you to cleanse your palate between tastings and fully appreciate the subtleties of each cheese. This tour offers a perfect blend of education and indulgence, providing insights into the production of one of Italy's most iconic cheeses, while also allowing you to savor the distinct flavors and textures of Parmesan at various stages of aging.