Isernia, a picturesque town in Italy, is home to a traditional cheese factory where visitors can enjoy the rich culinary heritage of the region. This one-hour guided tour offers a unique opportunity to witness the artistry of handcrafting stretched-curd cheese, passed down through eleven generations. From production techniques to delectable tasting, the experience promises to delight cheese lovers and those eager to discover the local traditions that make this destination so captivating.
Key Points
- Guided tour of a traditional cheese factory in the Isernia region, with a focus on handcrafting stretched-curd cheese and exploring salting rooms and maturation cellars.
- One-hour experience limited to 10 participants, available in English and Italian, and wheelchair accessible.
- Includes a 20-minute cheese tasting featuring three artisanal cheeses and a visitor kit with informative materials.
- Participants can learn about the connection to UNESCO-recognized transhumance culture and gain insights into local culinary heritage and traditions.
- Transportation to and from the location is included, but additional food or beverages are not provided.
Activity Overview
The "Isernia: Traditional Cheese Factory Visit with Tasting" activity offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich cheese-making heritage of the Isernia region.
Priced from $27.31 per person, the one-hour experience is limited to just 10 participants and is available in both English and Italian.
The activity is wheelchair accessible, and visitors can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Guests will have the chance to observe traditional cheese-making techniques, visit aging cellars, and learn about the transhumance culture that’s closely tied to the region’s artisanal cheese production.
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Itinerary and Experience
Visitors begin their traditional cheese factory experience at the Caseificio Di Nucci Antonio di Franco Di Nucci, the starting location. During the 40-minute guided tour, they’ll observe the handcrafting of stretched-curd cheese, a technique passed down through eleven generations. Skilled artisans use wooden tools to demonstrate the filatura process. Guests then explore the salting rooms and maturation cellars where the award-winning aged Caciocavallo cheese develops. The 20-minute cheese tasting features three artisanal stretched-curd cheeses, allowing visitors to savor the flavors and learn about the connection between cheese-making and the UNESCO-recognized transhumance culture.
| Itinerary | Duration |
|———–|———-|
| Guided Tour | 40 minutes |
| Cheese Tasting | 20 minutes |
| Total Experience | 1 hour |
Highlights and Learning
During the guided factory tour, visitors experience the handcrafting of stretched-curd cheese, a technique passed down through eleven generations.
They witness the skilled artisans using wooden tools for the filatura process, which creates the unique texture and shape of these artisanal cheeses.
Visitors explore the salting rooms and maturation cellars where the award-winning aged Caciocavallo cheese develops its distinctive flavors.
Throughout the experience, they learn about the connection between cheese-making and the UNESCO-recognized transhumance culture, gaining insights into the traditions that have shaped this local culinary heritage.
Included Features
The tour includes a guided tasting of three artisanal stretched-curd cheeses, showcasing the flavors and textures developed through the traditional production methods. Visitors will also enjoy a guided tour of the cheese production laboratory, where they can witness the demonstration of traditional cheese-making techniques. As part of the experience, you will receive a visitor kit with informative materials. Transportation to and from the location is also included.
| Included Features | | |
|——————-|—————-|—————|
| Cheese Tasting | Production Tour | Visitor Kit |
| Guided Tasting | Guided Tour | Informative |
| 3 Artisanal Cheeses| Production Demo| Transportation|
More Great Tours NearbyAdditional Information
While the tour is wheelchair accessible, it may not be suitable for people with lactose intolerance. The cheese tasting features three artisanal stretched-curd cheeses, making it vegetarian-friendly but not suitable for vegans.
Additional food or beverages aren’t included, so guests should plan accordingly. Gratuities for the knowledgeable guides and staff aren’t included in the tour price.
The meeting point is the reception area, where guests should ask for the cheese tour guide. Itineraries are subject to change, so guests should confirm details prior to the tour.
Starting Location and Guided Tour
The tour begins at the Caseificio Di Nucci Antonio di Franco Di Nucci, the traditional cheese factory that’s the heart of this experience.
During the 40-minute guided tour, visitors will observe the artisanal cheese-making process firsthand. They’ll witness skilled artisans using wooden tools to perform the filatura technique, which creates the distinctive stretched-curd cheeses.
The tour also explores the salting rooms and maturation cellars where the award-winning Caciocavallo cheese develops its signature flavors.
Throughout, guests will learn about the connection between this cheese-making tradition and the UNESCO-recognized transhumance culture.
Cheese Tasting Experience
After the guided tour, participants then enjoy a 20-minute tasting of three artisanal stretched-curd cheeses.
The expert cheese guide introduces each variety, sharing insights into the traditional production methods and regional significance. Guests savor the unique flavors and textures of the cheeses, learning how the filatura process and aging contribute to their distinctive qualities.
The tasting allows visitors to appreciate the dedication and expertise of the cheesemakers, as they discern the nuances that distinguish these locally-crafted products.
This hands-on experience immerses participants in the rich culinary heritage of the Isernia region.
Traditional Cheese-Making Demonstration
During the guided tour, visitors witness the traditional cheese-making techniques that have been passed down through generations at the Isernia cheese factory.
Skilled artisans use wooden tools to skillfully perform the filatura process, stretching and shaping the curd into the distinctive Caciocavallo cheese.
Skilled artisans utilize traditional wooden tools to expertly execute the filatura process, shaping the curd into the iconic Caciocavallo cheese.
Visitors explore the salting rooms and maturation cellars where the award-winning aged cheeses develop their complex flavors.
The tour provides a rare glimpse into the centuries-old tradition of transhumance culture and its connection to the region’s renowned artisanal cheese production.
Common Questions
Can I Take the Cheese Home After the Tour?
Unfortunately, the tour does not include taking cheese home. The experience focuses on observing the cheese-making process and tasting the artisanal cheeses onsite. Participants won’t be able to purchase or bring home any of the cheeses after the tour.
Is the Facility Air-Conditioned for Comfort?
The facility is temperature-controlled to provide a comfortable environment for visitors. During the tour, guests can expect a cool, climate-regulated setting that’s suitable for observing the cheese-making process and tastings.
Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available On-Site?
Yes, there are restroom facilities available on-site for visitors. The cheese factory has standard restrooms that are accessible and maintained for the comfort and convenience of all participants during the tour and tasting experience.
Can Children Participate in the Cheese Tasting?
Children are welcome to participate in the cheese tasting. However, they’ll need to be accompanied by an adult, as the tour isn’t specifically designed for children. The cheese tastings may not be suitable for young kids.
Is There Parking Available Near the Cheese Factory?
The cheese factory provides limited on-site parking. Visitors can also find public parking nearby. Check with the tour operator for specific parking details and recommendations prior to your visit.
The Sum Up
Discover the rich cheese-making heritage of Isernia on this immersive tour. Witness the artistry of handcrafted stretched-curd cheese and indulge in a delightful tasting of three artisanal varieties. This intimate experience offers a unique opportunity to explore local traditions and savor the distinct flavors of the region, making it a must-visit for cheese enthusiasts.
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