Spain has a rich tradition in cheese-making, but one cheese has taken the culinary world by storm in 2025: Ojos del Guadiana Platinum. This artisanal Manchego cheese, produced in the La Mancha region, has been named the best Spanish cheese of 2025. In this blog, we explore the unique qualities of this cheese, its production, history, and versatile uses. We also take a look at other beloved Spanish cheeses.

A World-Class Recognition
The title of best Spanish cheese was awarded by the prestigious Frankfurt International Trophy, where Ojos del Guadiana Platinum stood out for its unique flavor, texture, and traditional production process. This award not only acknowledges the cheese's quality but also highlights the cultural and artisanal heritage behind it.

How Ojos del Guadiana Platinum is Made
Ojos del Guadiana Platinum is a Manchego cheese made from the milk of native Manchega sheep. The production process includes:

• Milk Production: Only milk from Manchega sheep in La Mancha is used.
• Coagulation: The milk is heated and curdled with natural enzymes.
• Shaping and Pressing: The curd is pressed into traditional cylindrical molds with a characteristic woven pattern.
• Aging: The cheese ages for a minimum of 12 months, developing a complex, nutty flavor with notes of caramel and spices.
• Artisanal Care: During aging, each cheese is regularly turned and oiled with olive oil to preserve the rind and enhance flavor.

Origin and History
Manchego cheese has been produced for centuries in La Mancha, the region made famous by Cervantes’ Don Quixote. The dry climate, rich soil, and native sheep breeds make this area ideal for Manchego cheese production. Ojos del Guadiana Platinum pays homage to this tradition, taking its name from the mysterious springs of the Guadiana River, a natural phenomenon in La Mancha.

How to Use Ojos del Guadiana Platinum
This cheese is incredibly versatile:

• On a Cheese Board: Pair it with Spanish ham, figs, and almonds.
• In the Kitchen: Grate over pasta or melt into sauces for a rich flavor.
• With Wine: Pairs perfectly with bold red wines like Rioja or Ribera del Duero.
• Desserts: Try it with honey or quince jelly for an authentic Spanish experience.

Other Spanish Cheeses to Try
Spain is home to a wealth of cheeses that are beloved worldwide:

• Idiazábal: A smoked sheep’s cheese from the Basque Country, with a firm texture and light smoky flavor.
• Cabrales: A blue cheese from Asturias, known for its intense, spicy taste.
• Mahon: A cheese from Menorca, with a slightly salty flavor thanks to its proximity to the sea.
• Tetilla: A soft, creamy cheese from Galicia, with a distinctive cone shape.

Why Are Spanish Cheeses So Popular?
Spanish cheeses are celebrated for their diversity and craftsmanship. Each region has its own traditions and techniques, resulting in unique flavors and textures. The natural environment and native livestock play a crucial role. Spanish cheeses pair perfectly with the country’s gastronomy, from tapas to desserts, making them a highly sought-after export product worldwide.

Conclusion
Ojos del Guadiana Platinum is more than just a cheese; it’s a symbol of Spain’s culinary tradition. Its title as the best Spanish cheese of 2025 highlights not only the product’s exceptional quality but also the rich history and artisanal dedication behind it. Along with other iconic Spanish cheeses, it continues to enhance the global reputation of Spanish cuisine.

Have you tried this award-winning cheese? Share your experience or discover for yourself why Ojos del Guadiana Platinum is the crowning jewel of Spanish cheeses.