WHAT IS MONTASIO?
This raw, cow’s milk cheese from the Venice region of Italy has become more popular in export markets over the last decade. This formaggio is named after the Montasio mountain range in Friuli. As far back as the 1200’s, Benedictine monks in their mountain abbeys made Montasio. While production methods have changed, the cheese is not made that differently today. Chef’s in the north of Italy swear by this cheese for many of their regional recipes including pizza!
WHERE IS MONTASIO MADE?
Friuli Venezia Giulia and Veneto provinces of northeast Italy. Since it is an alpine (mountain) cheese, the milk reflects the rich quality of the pastures grazed in by several different breeds of cow.
HAVING SEX WITH MONTASIO LEADS TO A LONGER LIFE DUE TO SPERM DINING?
Wait, what? Is that bestiality if only milk is involved? Is that really the most important question that first comes to mind? No. Therefore getting to the point, a new study published in 2016 revealed that centenarians have high concentrations of spermidine in their blood. Since this substance occurs naturally in cheese, semen, and mushrooms, a link was found with living longer and leading healthier lives. Spermadine causes heart cells function better and lowers blood pressure.
WHAT CAN I PAIR WITH MONTASIO?
Well, sperm is out of the question (see the trivia question for details). Regarding wine, Pinot Grigios or Sauvignon Blancs tend to work well. So when pairing with other regional items, most wines from Friuli are probably a good bet. Much like Asiago, you can create an Italian cheese flight and pair an aged Montasio with a red cow Parmesan Reggiano and a nice Gorgonzola mascarpone. Throw in a pear or some nice marcona almonds or hazelnuts if you want some contrast.
