| The Vega Mancha Manchego PDO 12 Months (Viejo) is a hard, aged cheese from La Mancha, Spain, made exclusively from pasteurized milk of Manchega sheep. It adheres to strict PDO regulations regarding geography, milk source, shape, and aging time. Industrially produced by Quesos Vega Sotuelamos S.L., it uses animal rennet and additives like lysozyme and calcium chloride for safety and quality. Aging entails proteolysis and lipolysis, creating a firm, flaky texture with nutty, caramel, and piquant flavors, and distinctive tyrosine crystals. Served at room temperature, it pairs well with Tempranillo wine and quince paste, offering a premium, traceable product with global export presence. |