Ubriaco

Ubriaco, also known as drunken cheese, is a traditional Italian cheese that is bathed in wine during its aging process. The name "Ubriaco" comes from the Italian word for "drunk". This cheese is a specialty of the Veneto region in northern Italy.

History

The tradition of soaking cheese in wine dates back to World War I. During the war, cheese producers in the Veneto region began hiding their cheese from soldiers by burying it in barrels of wine. They discovered that this process not only preserved the cheese but also gave it a unique flavor. This led to the creation of Ubriaco.

Production

Ubriaco is typically made from cow's milk, although it can also be made from sheep's or goat's milk. The cheese is first aged for several months. After this initial aging period, the cheese is soaked in wine for several weeks. The wine used can be red, white, or even sparkling. The cheese absorbs the wine, which gives it a distinctive flavor and a purple rind. After the wine bath, the cheese is aged for several more months.

Characteristics

Ubriaco has a firm, crumbly texture and a strong, fruity flavor. The wine gives the cheese a slightly sweet taste and a distinctive aroma. The rind of the cheese is edible and has a flavor that is reminiscent of the wine in which it was soaked.

Serving

Ubriaco is often served as a table cheese. It can be eaten on its own or paired with fruits, nuts, and bread. It also pairs well with a variety of wines, particularly those from the Veneto region.

See also

• List of Italian cheeses
• List of cheeses
• Veneto