Grana Padano

What is grana cheese?

Grana is actually a category of cheese describing Italian cheeses that are hard, aged, and have a “grainy” texture. One of the most popular Italian cheeses, Parmigiano-Reggiano, falls under this category. So do Grana Padano cheese and Grana Trentino. 

What is the difference between Grana Padano and Parmigiano-Reggiano?

Grana cheese and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese are both in the same family, so they do have similar characteristics. However, this pale yellow cheese is not as sharp, salty or crumbly as Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. It has a slightly milder flavor, though it also possesses the same kind of nutty taste. Our full bodied Grana Padano cheese, protected designation of origin, is made in Northern Italy in the Po River Valley, and must be aged a minimum of 16 months. It is also naturally a lactose-free cheese produced using partially skimmed cows milk.

How should I eat Grana Padano cheese?

Grana cheeses are typically used for grating over meals. They can also be paired with dried fruits, nuts and honey, as well as bold red wines and dessert wines.