This exceptional cheese from the Canary Islands has a nutty flavor with an appealing sharpness that pairs equally well with a glass of sparkling Cava or a full-bodied Rioja red wine. With a firm texture and rich, buttery flavor, it is one of our very favorite cheeses.

We first tasted Majorero cheese by Maxorata in San Sebastian at the World Cheese Awards in 2017, where it won a coveted gold medal. After tasting dozens of cheeses, this one stood out for its subtle complexity and appealing texture. The artisans at Maxorata have earned fame for the tiny island of Fuerteventura, winning several international awards, including a Gold Medal at the World Cheese Awards in 2019 and a Super Gold award at the World Cheese Awards in 2018.

Majorero goats are indigenous to the Canary Islands and thrive in the harsh, dry landscape of Fuerteventura Island. There they roam the open countryside, nibbling on the aromatic herbs and grasses. The resulting milk has many subtle flavors and is rich in milk fat and protein.

Maxorata carefully molds the cheese into wheels, creating a firm cheese with tiny air pockets. Each wheel is coated in mild paprika, giving it a distinct color and adding a subtle vegetal flavor.

Because it is aged up to 6 months, Majorero is medium firm without being hard or crumbly. It has a deeper, nuttier flavor than most goat cheeses we have tried.

Serve this excellent cheese at room temperature with fruit, almonds and your favorite wine.