Portuguese Cheese

Portugal is divided by its major river, the Tagus, creating a clear demarcation of the landscape. The northern terrain is mountainous, with rivers coursing through the valleys, while the south has a rolling landscape of plains and hills; both can be extremely hot. The Atlantic islands of Azores and Madeira have cooler microclimates and they produce fine cheeses as well as the dessert wine; when grazing happens in volcanic areas, the mineral rich soil lends an interesting structure to the milk. From the nuttiness of São Jorge to the spiciness of Evora, the cheeses of Portugal have their own distinct flavours and textures and are worth exploring alongside a glass of the country’s own fortified wine.