Parmesan Wheels near Parma: Tasting & Factory Tour

Indulge in a sensory journey through the world of Parmigiano Reggiano with two unique tours designed to satisfy every cheese lover's curiosity and taste. The first tour, Cheese making from The Start and offers an immersive, behind-the-scenes experience of the entire cheese making process. This exclusive tour allows you to witness the early stages of production, including the extraction of the cheese wheel by skilled casari. After the production walkthrough, you’ll be treated to a guided tasting of Parmigiano Reggiano in different maturations, fresh ricotta, seasonal fruits, grissini, and refreshing water. During the months of April to September, the tour also extends to the picturesque farm where you’ll meet the young calves, providing a charming touch of countryside life.

For those with limited time or a focus on tasting, the With the Cheesemakers and Tasting tour begins and skips the early stages of cheese production. Instead, you’ll get a detailed explanation from the master cheesemakers, Silvia and Maurizio, as they guide you through the production rooms. You’ll witness the cutting of a full cheese wheel before enjoying a delicious tasting session that highlights different Parmigiano Reggiano maturations. The tasting includes fresh ricotta, seasonal fruits, grissini, and water, making it a flavorful experience. Similar to the full tour, visitors between April and September can also meet the calves on the farm, adding a unique and heartwarming element to your visit.

Both tours offer a memorable journey into the craftsmanship and tradition of Parmigiano Reggiano. Whether you choose to dive deep into the entire cheese-making process or focus on savoring the different maturations, you are sure to gain a deeper appreciation for this iconic Italian cheese. With the chance to meet the calves and learn about the sustainable practices of the farm, this experience promises not only a culinary delight but also a connection to the heritage of Parmigiano Reggiano.