Barrosu – Sepi
The Barrosu cheese produced by Sepi is an excellent expression of Sardinia’s ancient cheesemaking tradition, skilfully reinterpreted with technical expertise by a company that has safeguarded the secrets of cheese production on the island for two generations. This mixed Sardinian cheese is created from the harmonious combination of sheep’s milk and goat’s milk, raw materials sourced entirely from local farms located in the region’s inland areas. The production process begins with the collection and rigorous selection of the raw materials, followed by curdling, moulding and carefully controlled salting, which gives the cheese its distinctive character. The minimum ageing period of 60 days takes place in temperature- and humidity-controlled environments, a crucial stage during which the cheese develops its firm structure and the aromatic complexity that makes this product unmistakable.
From a visual and tactile perspective, Barrosu is presented as an impressive wheel, with a diameter of approximately 20 centimetres and a weight ranging from 3 to 3.2 kilograms. Beneath its well-defined and firm rind lies a hard and compact paste, characterised by a colour tending towards straw yellow and by sparse, fine and evenly distributed eye formation. On the nose, it reveals a rich bouquet, in which the primary notes of milk evolve into distinct toasted aromas and nuances of dried fruit. On the palate, the experience is full and enveloping: its intense and pleasantly salty flavour highlights the strength of sheep’s milk, softened and refined by the aromatic freshness of goat’s milk, leaving a long, clean and persistent finish.
One of the most fascinating aspects of this cheese lies in its very name: in the Sardinian language, the word barrosu refers to a proud, bold person with a strong character. It is a term that perfectly describes the personality of this product, created for those who seek authentic expressions of identity in food and bold flavours that make no compromises. The decision to combine two such different types of milk reflects the historical versatility of Sardinian pastoralism, capable of making the most of the resources of the land to create specialities designed to stand the test of time.
In the kitchen, Barrosu cheese proves to be an exceptional ingredient for enhancing traditional cheese boards and refined aperitifs. It is recommended to cut it into flakes or cubes and pair it with fresh elements such as celery stalks or seasonal vegetables, which create a pleasant contrast with the savouriness of the cheese. It is also ideal when enjoyed with slices of rustic bread or classic pane carasau warmed in the oven. As for wine pairing, this cheese calls for a full-bodied, structured red wine capable of matching its intensity; the ideal choice is a glass of Cannonau di Sardegna DOC, which beautifully enhances its toasted nuances and deeply territorial character.
