One of the many hidden gems in Piano di Sorrento, the suburb of Sorrento proper where my Hotel is located, is the Michelangelo Cheese Factory: a family run business that has been in operation since the 1920’s.  A small local business tucked away behind a stone arch and row of charming apartments that operates seven days a week.  The handful of employees arrive each morning at 2am to begin the process of making what turns out to be, the best-tasting fresh mozzarella cheese in the world.  Made from local cow’s milk, this creamy, melt-in-your mouth cheese is produced each and every day, and is ready to be delivered to local hotels, restaurants, and to the cases of their walk-in cheese shop, when their shift ends at 2pm, Monday through Sunday.

Their mozzarella cheese, along with their fresh ricotta, fresh butter, provolone, and even smoked mozzarella (just to name a few of their creations) is the ultimate in gourmet, artisanal food stuffs;  cheese that so fresh that it should be eaten immediately (no complaints from me on that!).  The tour of this amazing company, and the introduction to this genuinely charming family, should be on the top of your to-do list if you are ever in the area.  No matter the time of day, the fascinating tour always ends with a cheese tasting sampling at least 10 of their products, paired with, that’s right, red wine.

 

Another perk is that their dried cheeses, like their amazing smoked mozzarella, can be sealed in plastic for your travels, good up to 2 weeks after you purchase it.  A perfect idea for your carry-on luggage, or that train side snack on the way to your next Italian destination.

Tagged: cheese tour, cooking class, externship, Italy, Mami Camilla, Sorrento