St Tola

St. Tola Goat Cheese

St. Tola Goat Cheese Log

St. Tola Goat Cheese is a renowned goat cheese produced in County Clare, Ireland. It is celebrated for its creamy texture and distinctive flavor, which is attributed to the lush pastures and unique climate of the region. St. Tola Goat Cheese is made using traditional methods and is considered a premium product in the world of artisanal cheeses.

History

The production of St. Tola Goat Cheese began in the early 1980s when Siobhán Ní Ghairbhith took over the family farm and decided to focus on goat farming and cheese production. The farm is located in the Burren, a region known for its unique limestone landscape and rich biodiversity. The cheese quickly gained popularity due to its high quality and unique taste.

Production Process

St. Tola Goat Cheese is made from the milk of Saanen and Toggenburg goats, which are known for their high milk yield and quality. The cheese is produced using traditional methods, including hand-ladling the curds and allowing the cheese to mature naturally. This process helps to develop the complex flavors and creamy texture that St. Tola is known for.

Milk Collection

The goats are milked twice daily, and the milk is collected and stored at a controlled temperature to ensure freshness. The milk is then pasteurized to eliminate any harmful bacteria while preserving the natural flavors.

Curdling and Molding

The pasteurized milk is mixed with rennet and cultures to initiate the curdling process. Once the curds have formed, they are carefully cut and hand-ladled into molds. This gentle handling helps to maintain the delicate texture of the cheese.

Aging

St. Tola Goat Cheese is aged for varying periods, depending on the desired flavor profile. The cheese is typically aged for a minimum of two weeks, but some varieties are aged for several months to develop a more robust flavor.

Varieties

St. Tola Goat Cheese is available in several varieties, each with its own unique characteristics:

• St. Tola Log: A soft, creamy cheese with a mild flavor, often used in salads and as a spread.
• St. Tola Ash: Coated in a layer of ash, this cheese has a distinctive appearance and a slightly tangy flavor.
• St. Tola Hard Cheese: Aged for a longer period, this cheese has a firmer texture and a more pronounced flavor.

Culinary Uses

St. Tola Goat Cheese is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. It is commonly used in salads, sandwiches, and as a topping for pizzas and tarts. Its creamy texture makes it an excellent choice for spreading on bread or crackers.

Related Pages

• Goat cheese
• County Clare
• Burren
• Saanen goat
• Toggenburg goat