Parmigiano Reggiano Prodotto di Montagna (mountain product) represents one of the most precious jewels in the Italian cheese tradition. But what makes it so special compared to the classic Parmigiano Reggiano? In this article, we will explore the unique characteristics, the additional requirements and the reasons why this cheese is considered to be of higher quality.

What it is and what defines it

Parmigiano Reggiano Prodotto di Montagna is a special variety of Parmigiano Reggiano, produced according to strict rules to guarantee its authenticity and quality. The designation "Prodotto di Montagna" is not accidental: it indicates that all production phases, from milking to ripening, must take place in specific mountain areas, usually at an altitude of over 600 meters.

The additional requirements

To obtain the designation "Prodotto di Montagna", Parmigiano Reggiano must meet a number of additional requirements that go beyond the standard requirements that apply to Parmigiano Reggiano. These include:

1. Geographical origin: The milk must come exclusively from farms located in mountainous areas. This ensures that the cows eat high-quality grass and hay, typical of mountainous areas.
2. Feeding and rearing: The cows must be raised in an environment that complies with specific feeding standards, with priority given to local feeds and limiting the use of fermented foods.
3. Maturation: The cheese must mature in the mountains for at least 24 months, which helps to develop its unique organoleptic properties.
4. Additional quality checks: In addition, a quality selection is carried out at 20 months with “al martello” assessment by the experts of the Parmigiano Reggiano Consortium. This practice ensures additional guarantees linked not only to the origin but also to the quality of the cheese. In addition, additional quality checks are carried out, including sensory evaluations by a tasting panel and analysis of the chemical composition.

The characteristic notes

Parmigiano Reggiano Prodotto di Montagna stands out for a number of sensory characteristics that make it unique:

• Aroma: More intense and complex than Parmigiano Reggiano produced in the lowlands. The mountain herbs give the cheese an unforgettable aromatic bouquet.
• Taste: Richer and more persistent with notes of dried fruit, spices and a sweet-bitter aftertaste.
• Texture: The pasta is typically more granular and crispy thanks to the extended ripening and climatic conditions in the mountain areas.

Why it is of higher quality or better

Parmigiano Reggiano Prodotto di Montagna is considered to be of higher quality for several reasons:

1. Excellent raw materials: The cows are raised in the mountains and eat grass from unspoiled pastures, rich in biodiversity, which is reflected in the high quality of the milk.
2. Traditional methods: Production follows artisanal methods that have been handed down through generations, ensuring an authentic and genuine product.
3. Ideal ripening: The climatic conditions in the mountains promote optimal ripening, which improves the characteristics of the cheese.

My selection

In my selection of Parmigiano Reggiano Prodotto di Montagna I have chosen a dairy located over 800 meters in the Modenese Apennines. The products from this dairy are not only certified mountain products, but the tasting notes confirm a unique and quality much higher than what you can find in a regular Italian supermarket .

How to recognize a mountain product

Recognizing the real Parmigiano Reggiano Prodotto di Montagna is simple, just pay attention to these details:

• Label: Look for the official "Prodotto di Montagna" label on the packaging. This guarantees that the cheese has passed the necessary quality controls.

• Consortium mark and DOP logo: Check that the Parmigiano Reggiano Consortium mark and the DOP (Protected Designation of Origin) logo are present, which certifies the authenticity of the product.

• Information on origin: Read the information on the label, which must clearly indicate the mountain origin of the milk and the place of production and maturation.

In conclusion, Parmigiano Reggiano Prodotto di Montagna is not just a cheese, but a true gastronomic heritage. The combination of tradition, mountain environment and strict quality controls make it an excellent product, capable of satisfying even the most demanding taste buds. When you choose this cheese, you choose the best of the Italian cheese tradition.

Buon appetito!