Discover the Magic of Parmesan: Take a “Caseifici Aperti” Tour!

Imagine waking up to the tantalizing aroma of fresh milk simmering in large cauldrons, witnessing master cheese makers transform this simple ingredient into the world-renowned Parmigiano Reggiano, and later, savouring a slice of this freshly made cheese. This isn’t a fantasy; it’s what awaits you during the “Caseifici Aperti” tour. Experiences like this are also a highlight of a carefully planned Modena food tour, where visits to traditional dairies are combined with other iconic local producers.

A Journey to the Heart of Italy’s Gastronomy

The “Caseifici Aperti”, which translates to “Open Dairies”, is an event unlike any other. Hosted in the heart of Italy’s Parmigiano Reggiano production area, it offers a rare peek into the time-honored tradition of cheese-making. Scheduled this year for October 7th and 8th, this is a weekend where the doors of numerous dairies swing open to the public, inviting one and all to delve into the world of Parmesan.

More than Just Cheese

While the cheese itself is undoubtedly the star of the show, the event promises an immersive experience. Here’s what to expect:

• Live Demonstrations: Witness firsthand the artistry and skill involved in turning milk into Parmigiano Reggiano. The dedication of the casari, the cheese makers, is palpable as they work meticulously, following processes that have remained unchanged for centuries.
• Interactive Sessions: Engage with the casari, ask questions, and understand the passion that drives them. Their tales weave a rich tapestry of tradition, culture, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
• Gastronomic Delights: The tour is not just about watching and learning; it’s about tasting too! Relish freshly made Parmigiano Reggiano, and discover the nuances of its flavor profile.
• Explore the Region: Beyond the dairies, the event is a celebration of the region. Visitors can explore local attractions, enjoy the surrounding countryside, and take part in various entertainment activities, including games and performances at Iren Green Park in Reggio Emilia.

Make It A Weekend Affair

To make the most of your “Caseifici Aperti” experience, plan ahead:

1. Choose Your Dairy: With numerous dairies participating, you’re spoilt for choice. Whether it’s the Caseificio Ugolotti in Parma or the Società Agricola Bertinelli Gianni e Nicola in Noceto, each dairy has its own unique story to tell.
2. Book in Advance: These tours are popular, and spots can fill up quickly. Once you’ve chosen a dairy (or several), it’s best to contact them early.
3. Stay Local: The Parmigiano Reggiano production area offers a wide range of welcoming accommodations. Staying nearby allows you to explore at a relaxed pace. Outside the event weekend, joining a guided food tour in Modena is an easy way to experience dairies, balsamic vinegar producers, and other local specialties year-round.

The Parmigiano Reggiano Process: What to Expect at the Dairy

Parmesan, or as it’s authentically known, Parmigiano Reggiano, is the result of art, time, and tradition. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the fascinating process and what you might witness during your visit to the dairy:

1. Milk Collection: Parmigiano Reggiano is made from a mix of evening and morning milk. The evening milk rests overnight so the cream can rise and be removed, before being combined with fresh morning milk.
2. Copper Cauldrons: The milk is poured into large bell-shaped copper vats, gently heated, and mixed with natural whey starter and calf rennet.
3. Curds and Whey: As the milk coagulates, the curds are broken into tiny granules using a traditional tool called a spino, then heated until they settle at the bottom.
4. Forming the Cheese: The curds are lifted with muslin cloths, divided in two, and placed into circular molds called fascere, where they take on their iconic wheel shape.
5. Salting and Aging: After brining, the wheels are aged on wooden shelves for a minimum of 12 months, and often much longer.
6. Quality Inspection: Inspectors from the Parmigiano Reggiano Consortium test each wheel before it receives the official fire-branded mark.

During your “Caseifici Aperti” tour, you’ll witness many of these stages firsthand while gaining an appreciation for the skill and dedication of the casari. The atmosphere of the dairy, the rhythmic sounds of production, and the sight of countless wheels aging quietly on wooden shelves make this an experience that stays with you long after your visit ends.