This month we have a small, exclusive selection of cheeses from Spain, each one illustrative of a particular area.
Cheese is produced all over Spain, but the type depends on the particular climate and geography of a region.
Some types of cheese are regulated by the 'Protected Designation of Origin' (PDO) which specifies the breed of animal supplying the milk, how the cheese is made, its size and any distinguishing characteristics. The most well known PDO cheese is Manchego, which is available from the service counter throughout the year.
Look out for more Spanish food and drink in our Tastes of Spain promotion next month.
Can Pujol
A relatively new cheese from Catalonia, this lovely, soft fresh cheese is made from the milk of the Murciana Granadina goat, which is typical of the area. In the small family-owned dairy, the cheese is moulded by hand to give it its distinctive shape and smooth texture. Tastes delightful.Exclusive to Waitrose
Idiazabal (PDO)
The name comes from a village in the Goierri Valley in the heart of the Basque region. A robust, firm, sheep's milk cheese which has been lightly smoked with beech, hawthorn or cherrywood to give a nutty flavour and delightful aroma. Exclusive to Waitrose
Romero
This attractive speciality cheese comes from the area of Castilla La Mancha. Matured for between six and nine months, this pure, sheep's milk cheese is then covered with rosemary. The unique combination produces a wonderful, full-bodied cheese with a hint of herbs. Exclusive to Waitrose
Tetilla (PDO)
This is the most characteristic cheese from Galicia, easily recognised by its distinctive shape and smooth straw-coloured rind. Made from cow's milk, it has a springy texture and a buttery but tangy flavour. Exclusive to Waitrose
This article was first published on Waitrose.com in March 1999.