Parmigiano-Reggiano

hard · cow milk · Italy · $$$

A firm body, with a sharp, bold bite.

Attribute scores

meltability 3/10

sharpness 9/10

creaminess 2/10

firmness 10/10

pungency 6/10

Best cheese wine pairing

Pair Parmigiano-Reggiano with a full-bodied red like Cabernet Sauvignon; for the sharpest, a Tawny Port — tannins (or, for the sharpest examples, Port's sweetness) stand up to the sharp, aged flavor (sharpness 9).

Great for

Risotto
Pasta
Sandwiches
Snacking & Crackers
Grating

Substitutes for Parmigiano-Reggiano

Cheese	Why it works
Sbrinz	similar overall, but less sharpness
Pecorino Romano	similar overall, but more pungency
Grana Padano	similar overall, but less sharpness
Pecorino	similar overall, but less firmness
Roncal cheese	similar overall, but less sharpness
Kefalotyri	similar overall, but less sharpness