7 Most Expensive Cheeses You Can Buy
Cheese has long been celebrated as one of the most luxurious delicacies in the culinary world. The art of cheesemaking can be simple to complex – and the finest ones often involve time-honored techniques and careful craftsmanship. From creamy Brie to pungent Blue, each type of cheese brings its own unique flavor profile and texture.
However, some cheeses stand in a league of their own, not just for their exquisite taste but for their hefty price tags. These cheeses are the epitome of indulgence—rare, meticulously crafted, and often reserved for those with deep pockets. Let's explore seven of the most expensive cheeses in the world and uncover what makes them so special.
1. Pule Cheese - The World's Most Expensive Cheese
When it comes to high-end cheese, Pule stands unrivaled. Hailing from Serbia, this exclusive cheese is made from the milk of Balkan donkeys. What sets it apart is the incredibly limited production; these donkeys produce only about 0.3 liters of milk a day, and it takes around 25 liters to make just one kilogram of cheese! Priced at an astounding $1,300 per kilogram, it's no wonder Pule is often reserved for the wealthiest cheese enthusiasts.
The high price tag is due to the labor-intensive process of collecting milk, as the donkeys produce very little. Additionally, the milk is scarce, making it challenging to produce in large quantities. The result is a crumbly, white cheese with a tangy and complex taste that keeps connoisseurs coming back for more. The exclusivity and distinctive characteristics of Pule make it the ultimate delicacy for cheese aficionados.
Pair it with: Pule's tangy profile pairs beautifully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light, zesty Chardonnay. The wine's acidity complements the cheese's complexity, creating a refreshing contrast. For an extra indulgent touch, pair it with truffle honey or fresh figs to enhance its flavors.
2. White Stilton Gold - The Golden Delight
Feeling fancy? Let's talk about White Stilton Gold, a cheese that literally sparkles. This luxurious English cheese is infused with edible gold flakes, adding a touch of luxury to an already indulgent treat. Created by Long Clawson Dairy in Leicestershire, it's priced at around $400 per kilogram. It's the kind of cheese you bring out when you want to impress.
White Stilton Gold is a soft, creamy cheese with a mild flavor, making it an ideal base for the addition of gold flakes. The process of making this cheese is meticulous, and the infusion of luxury elevates it to another level. While it might seem extravagant, it has become a favorite among those looking to add a touch of opulence to their cheese boards, especially during festive seasons.
Pair it with: To match its elegance, enjoy White Stilton Gold with a glass of Champagne or sparkling wine. The bubbles provide a light, refreshing contrast to the cheese's creaminess, and the hint of luxury in both makes for a sophisticated pairing. Adding fresh pears or a drizzle of acacia honey brings out the delicate flavors even more.
3. Caciocavallo Podolico - Italy's Rare Treasure
Italy is synonymous with high-quality cheese, and Caciocavallo Podolico is one of its most prized and rare offerings. Made from the milk of the rare Podolica cattle found only in Southern Italy, this cheese can cost up to $700 per kilogram. The cattle are pasture-raised, feeding on wild herbs, which gives their milk—and, consequently, the cheese—a rich and unique flavor.
Caciocavallo Podolico has a dense, firm texture with a nutty, herbal taste. The traditional, artisanal methods used to create it add to its rarity and exclusivity. This cheese is often aged for a few months, allowing its flavors to mature and deepen, making it a true representation of Italy's cheesemaking heritage.
Pair it with: A full-bodied red wine like Chianti or Barolo pairs exceptionally well with this cheese. The robust flavors of the wine enhance the herbal, nutty undertones of Caciocavallo Podolico. Pair it with a selection of cured meats or olives for a true taste of Italy's southern regions.
4. Moose Cheese - An Exclusive Scandinavian Delicacy
Moose Cheese might sound unusual, but this Scandinavian specialty is a rare and luxurious find. Produced in Sweden at the Elk House farm, this cheese is made from moose milk, which is notoriously difficult to harvest. The farm keeps just three moose, named Gullan, Haelga, and Juna, and each one only produces milk for a limited period each year. This explains why Moose Cheese is priced between $500 and $1,000 per kilogram.
There are three types of Moose Cheese available: a creamy, soft variety similar to feta, a blue cheese, and a dried, hard version. All offer distinct flavors ranging from mild and buttery to tangy and sharp, appealing to various palates. Its exclusivity, coupled with the challenge of producing moose milk, places Moose Cheese high on the list of the world's most expensive cheeses.
Pair it with: For a true Scandinavian experience, enjoy Moose Cheese with a glass of aquavit or a cold Swedish beer. The herbaceous notes in aquavit harmonize with the cheese's flavors, while the beer's crispness complements the creamy texture. Add some rye crackers and lingonberry preserves to complete the Nordic feast.
5. Bitto Storico - Aged Perfection from Italy
Bitto Storico, an ancient Italian cheese from the Valtellina region, is a rare delicacy that can be aged for over a decade. This aging process is the key to its premium price, reaching up to $400 per kilogram. Made from cow's milk with a small percentage of goat's milk, Bitto Storico is crafted using traditional techniques that have been preserved for centuries.
The cheese is aged in mountain cellars, where it develops a complex flavor profile—ranging from fruity and floral notes to intense, nutty undertones. Each wheel of Bitto Storico is carefully monitored throughout its aging process, ensuring it reaches its peak flavor potential. It's an ideal cheese for those who appreciate the art of aging and the depth of flavor it brings.
Pair it with: Aged cheeses like Bitto Storico pair beautifully with an aged Bordeaux or a Sangiovese. The depth of the wine matches the intensity of the cheese, making for a harmonious tasting experience. A touch of truffle oil or aged balsamic vinegar brings out the fruity and nutty notes, making each bite an explosion of flavor.
6. Cabrales - A Blue Cheese Masterpiece
Cabrales is a blue cheese that has become an emblem of Spanish cheesemaking. Made in the Asturias region of Northern Spain, Cabrales combines cow, goat, and sheep milk to create a cheese with a strong, bold flavor. The cheese is aged in natural caves, where the humidity and temperature help develop its signature blue veins. Depending on the aging period and production method, Cabrales can fetch up to $100 per kilogram.
Cabrales isn't for the faint-hearted. With its bold aroma and sharp, tangy flavor, it's a blue cheese lover's dream. What sets it apart is the traditional mix of cow, goat, and sheep milk aged in natural caves. This process gives Cabrales its signature edge and highlights the rich heritage and craftsmanship of Spanish cheesemakers. If you're up for a powerful punch of flavor, this one's a must-try!
Pair it with: For an authentic Spanish pairing, savor Cabrales with a robust Rioja or sherry. The richness of the wine balances the cheese's sharpness, and the combination brings out earthy and nutty flavors. Add some quince paste or dried figs for a sweet contrast to the tangy blue veins.
7. Époisses de Bourgogne - The French Aromatic Marvel
Wrapping up our list is Époisses de Bourgogne, a French classic that's famous for its bold aroma and silky, creamy texture. At around $200 per kilogram, it's not the priciest cheese here, but its luxurious feel and rich heritage definitely place it among the elite. Originating from Burgundy, it's washed in Marc de Bourgogne (a type of brandy), which gives it its signature flavor and distinct smell.
With its intense aroma and melt-in-your-mouth consistency, Époisses has earned a loyal following worldwide. Often paired with fine wines, it's the kind of cheese you save for special occasions or when you want to impress a sophisticated palate. The traditional washing process and age-old techniques behind it make Époisses a must-try for anyone seeking a truly luxurious cheese experience.
Pair it with: A glass of Burgundy or a Pinot Noir is the perfect complement to Époisses. The wine's smooth, earthy tones match the cheese's strong, creamy character. For a classic French touch, pair it with fresh baguette slices and a touch of apricot jam to balance the intense flavors.
Conclusion
These cheeses represent the height of cheesemaking craftsmanship, with flavors that range from mild and creamy to bold and tangy. They aren't just foods; they're experiences, bringing centuries of tradition and artistry to your plate. And don't forget, cheeses are healthy, too!
While their prices may be high, these cheeses showcase the passion and dedication behind artisanal dairy production. So, whether you're a dedicated cheese connoisseur or just curious, these luxury cheeses invite you to explore the world of exquisite, unforgettable flavors.
Next time you find yourself at a specialty cheese shop or planning an indulgent tasting event, why not give one of these a try? Pair them with the perfect wine, fresh fruit, or gourmet accompaniments, and you'll be in for an experience that's truly worth savoring.
