Valdivieso Artesano Manchego DOP - 'Made from Raw Farmhouse Milk'

Valdivieso Manchego Artesano Semicurado DOP

Valdivieso Manchego Artesano Semicurado is an exceptional semi-hard farmhouse cheese crafted exclusively from the raw milk of Manchega sheep, grazing freely on the natural pastures of Argamasilla de Alba, La Mancha, Spain. Its delicate yet distinctively nutty flavour is enriched by the region’s unique terroir and meticulous farmhouse production methods. The natural rind supports the growth of mould during maturation, contributing to the cheese’s complexity and authenticity.

Milk: La Manchega Sheep

Style: Semi-hard

Texture: Firm yet creamy

Flavour: Balanced, subtly lactic, earthy, nutty

Origin: Argamasilla de Alba, La Mancha, Spain

Understanding the "Artesano" Designation
The term "Artesano" guarantees consumers a premium Manchego cheese produced with traditional, handcrafted methods directly on the farm where the milk originates. Specifically, it signifies:

Farmstead Production:

Artesano Manchego is produced exclusively on the farm (fermier method) where the milk is obtained, ensuring complete control over every aspect of production.

Raw Milk Requirement:

Made exclusively from raw, unpasteurised milk, preserving the distinctive terroir and natural flavours derived from the farm’s own Manchega sheep.

Traditional Cheesemaking Techniques:

Crafted using manual labour, traditional pressing and moulding methods, natural maturation processes, and minimal mechanisation.

Protected Status (DOP):

Artesano Manchego carries the Denominación de Origen Protegida (DOP) certification, adhering strictly to production methods and geographical regulations defined by Spanish and European Union laws.

In short, the "Artesano" designation ensures authenticity, quality, and a direct connection to the rich culinary traditions of La Mancha.

About the Producer – Quesos Valdivieso
Quesos Valdivieso is a distinguished artisanal cheesemaker located at Finca Valdivieso, a historic family-owned agricultural estate near Campo de Criptana in the heart of La Mancha, Spain. The region is celebrated for its rich cheesemaking heritage and deep ties to traditional Manchego cheese production. All cheeses are produced entirely on-site using traditional farmhouse methods, meaning every step from milk collection to cheese maturation occurs at Finca Valdivieso. This approach enhances the unique character and authentic identity of their cheeses.

Established in 1880, Finca Valdivieso is one of the oldest continuously family-owned farms in La Mancha, dedicated exclusively to breeding Manchega sheep and crafting authentic farmhouse cheeses. Today, the estate is led by Luis de la Vega Yrisarry, a fifth-generation cheesemaker passionately committed to preserving the family legacy through meticulous adherence to traditional cheesemaking methods and sustainable farming practices.