Parmigiano Reggiano Riserva 24 Mesi - Caseificio Gennari - 300g

This Parmigiano is made by Caseificio Gennari, a family making cheese in Collecchio, near Parma, since 1953. Today it is run by the sons, with Paolo as master cheesemaker, and over the years they have become specialists in long ageing, sought after by chefs of the calibre of Cracco and Cerea. This is a 24 month riserva: two years that give it the crystals that crunch under your teeth, the long flavour and that hint of umami. Grate it over pasta, shave it onto risotto, or eat it in flakes with a drizzle of honey or balsamic for an end of meal bite. 300g wedge, vacuum-sealed.

Ingredients: cow milk, salt, rennet. No additives.

Usage: open the vacuum-sealed packaging at least 10 minutes before using. For full flavour, take the cheese out of the fridge an hour or two before serving and bring it to room temperature. Pat it dry with a cloth or kitchen paper. Never freeze it.

Storage: cheese has four enemies, drying out, lack of air, too cold and too hot. Keep aged cheese in the warmest part of the fridge, around 8 to 10°C. Once opened, do not use the plastic wrap it comes in: wrap it in food paper, which protects it from air while letting it breathe, and replace the paper each time you use it. Keep it away from unwashed vegetables and legumes.