Parmesan Cheese Factory Tour & Tasting Near Parma

Parma, the gastronomic heart of Italy, offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich tradition of Parmigiano Reggiano. Just a short drive from the city, the Parmesan Cheese Factory, Azienda Agricola Bertinelli, invites visitors to witness the meticulous cheese-making process and savor the complex flavors of this iconic Italian delicacy. Through a guided tour and tasting, travelers can explore the sustainable practices and uncover the secrets behind the creation of this beloved cheese.

Key Points

• One-hour guided tour and tasting experience at the Azienda Agricola Bertinelli cheese factory, located 30 minutes from Parma.
• Opportunity to observe the traditional cheese-making process, including aging rooms and skilled cheesemakers, and taste three distinct ages of Parmigiano Reggiano.
• Immersive culinary journey focused on sustainability, flavor evolution, and the 120-year-old tradition behind Parmigiano Reggiano.
• Tasting selection includes 15, 24, and 36-month aged cheeses, served with regional wine, Parmigiano cream, and water.
• Tour is wheelchair accessible, but not suitable for those with lactose intolerance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Parmesan Cheese Factory Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the traditional cheese-making process near the historic city of Parma.

The 1-hour tour includes a guided visit and tasting, priced at $63.68 per person. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and participants can reserve now and pay later.

The tour takes place at Azienda Agricola Bertinelli, located 30 minutes from Parma. Group size is limited to 10 participants, and the tour is accessible for wheelchair users.

Languages offered include English, Italian, German, French, and Spanish.

Exploring the Cheese Factory

As visitors step into the Parmesan Cheese Factory, they are immediately enveloped in the rich, aromatic atmosphere that permeates the historic building. The guided tour leads them through the various stages of the cheese-making process, from the aging rooms with their stacks of perfectly round wheels to the bustling production areas. Visitors can observe the skilled artisans at work, carefully monitoring the temperature and humidity to ensure the cheese matures to perfection. The tour culminates in a tasting experience, where guests savor three distinct ages of Parmigiano Reggiano, each with its own unique flavor profile.

| Cheese Variety | Aging Period |

| — | — |

| Parmigiano Reggiano | 15 months |

| Parmigiano Reggiano | 24 months |

| Parmigiano Reggiano | 36 months |

Witnessing the Cheese-Making Process

Visitors are led through the bustling production area, where they witness the intricate steps of traditional Parmigiano Reggiano cheese-making. From the scalding of the curds to the meticulous salting, each phase is meticulously explained.

The tour guide highlights the importance of sustainable practices, including the use of renewable energy and the humane treatment of dairy cows. Participants observe the skilled cheesemakers carefully monitoring the temperature and acidity, ensuring optimal texture and flavor.

The tour culminates in the aging rooms, where hundreds of cheese wheels undergo a patient maturation process, developing the rich, distinctive taste of authentic Parmigiano Reggiano.

Taking in the Aging Rooms

Entering the cavernous aging rooms, the tour participants are enveloped by the pungent aroma of maturing Parmigiano Reggiano.

Rows upon rows of cheese wheels, carefully stacked and meticulously rotated, line the shelves in an intricate dance of tradition.

The guide explains the critical factors:

1. Temperature and humidity control to ensure the perfect maturation environment.

2. Frequent brushing and turning of the wheels to develop the distinctive texture and flavor.

3. Precise timing, with cheeses aged for 15, 24, and 36 months, each with its unique profile.

4. The centuries-old artistry that transforms milk into the revered Parmesan cheese.

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Tasting the Aged Cheeses

What better way to appreciate the artistry of Parmigiano Reggiano than by savoring its distinct flavors through a carefully curated tasting?

During the tour, guests sample three aged cheeses – 15, 24, and 36 months. Each is served with a glass of regional wine, Parmigiano cream, and water, allowing visitors to fully experience the evolution of this renowned cheese.

The tasting focuses on sustainable practices and environmental awareness, providing an immersive culinary journey. Guests deepen their understanding of the 120-year-old tradition behind this iconic Italian delicacy, leaving with a heightened appreciation for its complex flavor profile.

Appreciating Sustainable Practices

As visitors explore the Parmesan cheese factory, they are immersed in the facility’s sustainable practices. The tour highlights four key aspects:

1. Responsible Farming: The cheesemakers emphasize humane treatment of dairy cows, providing them with ample space, natural feed, and an environment that promotes their well-being.

2. Waste Reduction: The factory minimizes waste through efficient processes, recycling, and repurposing by-products, demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship.

3. Energy Efficiency: The facility leverages renewable energy sources and implements energy-saving measures to reduce its carbon footprint.

4. Traceability: Visitors learn about the stringent quality control and traceability systems that ensure the authenticity and origin of the Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.

Customer Experiences and Feedback

Customers who have participated in the Parmesan Cheese Factory Tour share their experiences and feedback, providing insights into the overall value and satisfaction of the tour. The tour has received an impressive 4.6/5 rating based on 14 reviews, with high praise for the knowledgeable guide, and excellent value for money.

| Criteria | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |

|———-|—|—|—|—|—|

| Guide | 14 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |

| Value | 14 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |

| Traveler Types | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |

Customers highlight the immersive experience, the opportunity to learn about sustainable farming practices, and the chance to taste the artisanal Parmigiano Reggiano cheese of various ages as the tour’s key highlights.

Important Details and Considerations

The Parmesan Cheese Factory Tour provides an immersive experience for visitors interested in learning about the traditional production and aging process of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.

Several important details and considerations to keep in mind include:

1. Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity for all guests.

2. Dietary Restrictions: The tour may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance, as cheese tasting is a central component.

3. Transportation: Visitors are responsible for their own transportation, as it is a 30-minute drive or public transport journey from Parma.

4. Inclusions: The tour package includes a guided visit, cheese tasting, regional wine, and water.

Ask Away

Can I Purchase Cheese to Take Home After the Tour?

Yes, visitors can purchase Parmigiano Reggiano cheese to take home after the tour. The tour includes a tasting, but additional cheese products can be purchased at the on-site shop or winery.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

There is no minimum age requirement for the tour. Children are welcome to participate, though the tour content may be more engaging for older participants able to fully appreciate the cheese-making process and tasting experience.

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Photography is generally permitted during the tour, though visitors are advised to respect the privacy of the facility and its employees. Guests should check with the tour guide regarding any restrictions or guidelines for photography.

What Should I Wear for the Tour?

For a factory tour, it is recommended to wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and casual clothing that can get dirty. Avoid open-toe shoes or sandals. Dress in layers as the temperature inside the facility may be cooler.

Are There Any Dietary Substitutions Available During the Tasting?

The tour does not offer dietary substitutions for the cheese tasting. The tasting experience focuses on appreciating the distinct flavors and ages of traditional Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, which contains dairy. Alternative arrangements may need to be made for those with lactose intolerance.

Final Words

The Parmesan Cheese Factory tour and tasting near Parma offers an immersive experience to explore the traditional cheese-making process. Visitors can witness the meticulous production, sample the distinct aged cheeses, and learn about sustainable practices, all within a 1-hour guided tour priced at $63.68 per person. This accessible experience provides an opportunity to appreciate the rich tradition and complex flavors of the iconic Parmigiano Reggiano.

You can check availability for your dates here: