Auricchio Provolone: Masterpiece of Italian Cheesemaking

A Storied Heritage

Auricchio Provolone has been a prestigious name in the world of cheese since the late 19th century. Founded by Gennaro Auricchio in 1877, this Italian delicacy is a testament to over 140 years of craftsmanship, quality, and tradition. As one of the oldest family-run cheese operations in Italy, Auricchio has honed the art of cheese-making, blending innovation with generations of expertise to offer a product that is as exquisite as it is versatile.

Varieties to Delight

Auricchio Provolone boasts a stunning array of varieties, each offering unique flavors and textures to suit any palate. From the intensely sharp Stravecchio, aged for more than 18 months with its iconic black rind, to the creamy and mildly sweet Dolce, matured for up to 60 days, each type of Auricchio Provolone presents a different facet of its rich heritage. Enthusiasts may also appreciate the Gustoso, with its softer, tangier profile, or the Piccante, celebrated for its spicy, complex character.

Time-Honored Production

The production of Auricchio Provolone is as captivating as the cheese itself. It all begins with high-quality cow’s milk sourced from farms no more than 100 kilometers from the production facilities, ensuring each wheel of cheese embodies the true taste of its Italian roots. The milk is curdled with a secret Auricchio rennet, a closely guarded family recipe, which imparts the cheese with its distinctive flavor.

The intricate process involves expert dairymen breaking the curds, cooking them gently, and then spinning and shaping the cheese by hand. This meticulous care extends through each step; from brining and cooling to the essential maturation process. The result is a deeply flavored cheese that varies from soft and supple to firm and crumbly, depending on the variety.

Sensory Experience

Beyond the production process, Auricchio Provolone delivers an immersive sensory experience. The cheese’s appearance varies, with shapes reflecting traditional Italian forms, from “salame” to “mandarino.” The rind may be natural or adorned, offering visual cues to the flavors within.

In terms of texture, younger cheeses like Dolce are noted for their soft, elastic quality, while more matured varieties such as Stravecchio offer a firmer, crumbly bite with an intricate mouthfeel. Flavor-wise, expect a range from the mild sweetness of Dolce to the robust tanginess of Classico, culminating in the intensely sharp nuances of Stravecchio.

Culinary Versatility

Auricchio Provolone is the perfect companion in both traditional and modern culinary applications. It graces antipasto platters with distinction, harmonizes beautifully in sandwiches and paninis, and enriches recipes from pizzas to baked entrees. Pair it with robust red wines or crisp whites to elevate any dining experience.

Commitment to Quality

Every aspect of Auricchio Provolone, from local milk sourcing to the precise marking and packaging, underscores a commitment to quality and authenticity. Its journey from the rolling hills of Italy to tables worldwide reflects both the respect for tradition and the embrace of modern sustainability practices.

Cherished by chefs and home cooks alike, Auricchio Provolone remains an essential element of Italian cuisine, inviting you to explore its many flavors and enjoy its storied provenance.