Istara P’tit Basque Sheep’s Milk Cheese, French Pyrenees Wheel 1.5 LB

Istara P'tit Basque: Pure Sheep's Milk Cheese from the French Pyrenees

Looking for a gourmet cheese that pleases everyone at the table? Istara P'tit Basque (also spelled Petit Basque) is a pure sheep's milk, or "pur brebis," cheese made and aged in the Pyrenees-Atlantiques region of the French Basque country. This small, rustic wheel has a smooth, medium-firm texture and a naturally rich flavor that is sweet, buttery, and nutty, similar to a milder, creamier Manchego. It is available now from 5280Gourmet in Denver, Colorado.

Why You'll Love P'tit Basque

• Made from 100% pasteurized sheep's milk and aged about 70 days for a smooth, balanced flavor
• Mild enough for cheese lovers who are new to sheep's milk, with enough character for connoisseurs
• Rich, naturally sweet, nutty taste with a clean finish
• A convenient small wheel that is easy to serve, share, and gift
• Melts beautifully for cooking

Tasting Notes

The rind is rustic and golden-brown, and the interior is a pale ivory with a supple, slightly oily texture that slices cleanly. The aroma is gently earthy with a hint of sheep's milk, and the flavor is sweet and creamy with a nutty, lingering finish. Because it is milder than many sheep's milk cheeses, it works well on a board that has to please a crowd.

How to Serve P'tit Basque

• On a cheese board: Slice the wheel into wedges or thin slices and let it come to room temperature for 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
• Classic Basque pairing: Serve with black cherry preserves, the traditional match for sheep's milk cheese in the Basque country.
• Other pairings: Marcona almonds, fresh or dried stone fruit, honey, fig jam, cured meats such as chorizo, and rustic crusty bread.
• In the kitchen: Melt it into grilled cheese sandwiches or a croque monsieur, grate it into macaroni and cheese, or shave it over salads and roasted vegetables.

A Great Cheese Gift

With its hand-labeled Basque look and gentle flavor, P'tit Basque makes an easy gourmet gift for hosts, clients, and cheese lovers on your list. Pair it with crackers, preserves, and nuts for a simple, memorable present.

Product Details

• Brand: Istara
• Origin: Pyrenees-Atlantiques, Basque country, France
• Milk: Pasteurized sheep's milk
• Style: Semi-hard, aged about 70 days
• Approximate weight: About 1.2 lb per wheel; actual weight varies slightly
• Ingredients: Sheep's milk, salt, rennet, lactic starters, calcium chloride. The rind is coated with caramel and annatto coloring.
• Rind: Not intended to be eaten; remove before serving
• Storage: Keep refrigerated at 34 to 40 degrees F. Rewrap tightly in wax or parchment paper after cutting and enjoy within 2 weeks of opening.

Order Gourmet Cheese in Denver from 5280Gourmet

5280Gourmet is a Denver-based gourmet gift and food company serving the Metro Denver area. Add Istara P'tit Basque to your next order of gourmet cheese, gift baskets, and corporate gifts.