The Era del Cardón dairy, situated in the Lomo Padilla area of Agüimes, has been honored with the Best Cured Cheese of Gran Canaria award at the XXXIII Official Cheese Competition of Gran Canaria. This accolade highlights the gastronomic excellence of the municipality and the company's commitment to quality.
“"Cheese begins with milk, and milk comes from goats. The natural pasture, the flowers… all of that is noticeable in the flavor."
The award-winning product, made on December 15, exceeded the 105 days of curing required for its category, resulting in a creamy, intense, and balanced cheese. The company emphasizes the importance of the rain that has fallen on the island since mid-December, which has favored natural pastures and, consequently, the flavor of the milk.
The farm has approximately 1,000 Majorera goats in milking, producing around one thousand liters of milk daily, from which about 100 kilograms of cheese are obtained. The production process is meticulous, starting before dawn and requiring constant care from a team of six people.
With over half a century of tradition, the dairy was founded by Mateo Martel and Josefa Perdomo. Although the current management acknowledges that the award is an incentive to maintain standards, it also stresses humility and camaraderie within the sector, noting that competition is fierce. This year, in addition to the first prize for cured cheese, they also secured second place in the tender cheese category.
Their products are sold directly at the dairy, in small shops, restaurants, and sales points such as the Vegueta market. This recognition opens doors to the international World Cheese Awards, to be held in Córdoba in November, offering a global showcase for this product deeply rooted in the Canarian territory.
