Argentinian Cheese La Serenísima Tops Blind Parmesan Test

A recent blind test involving 15 brands of pre-packaged parmesan cheese, conducted in Brazil, concluded with the Argentinian brand La Serenísima emerging as the winner. The test was designed to evaluate the sensory qualities of the cheeses without the influence of brand recognition or price.

La Serenísima, sold at a price of R$ 22.58 for a 188-gram package, was praised for its maturation, visible curing crystals, buttery texture, and flavor. It was one of the least expensive options among those tested. The cheese was described by one of the evaluators as 'a beautiful cheese, a perfect 10.'

The second place was awarded to Faixa Azul, which was noted for its texture, sweetness, and balanced flavor. However, it was the most expensive among the top contenders, priced at R$ 37.60 for the same weight.

Vigor took third place, with its 236-gram package priced at R$ 21.22, the lowest among the top three. It was appreciated for its sweet and salty balance, soft texture, noticeable curing crystals, and umami presence.

The test highlighted a common theme among the top cheeses: more intense curing, discernible curing crystals, and a crumbly texture, which are attributes often linked to longer maturation periods. Brazilian regulations mandate a minimum six-month curing period for cheese to be labeled as parmesan.

The results suggest that in the segmented market of pre-packaged cheeses, price might not correlate with perceived quality. Lower-priced brands like La Serenísima and Vigor excelled in key quality attributes that influence consumer purchasing decisions, such as texture, flavor, and maturity.