The history of La Rioja is tradition, effort, flavor and union among its inhabitants. And it is precisely thanks to this common work and the transmission from generation to generation of a unique way of doing things that Riojan gastronomy is recognized throughout the world. Traditional products, but also nowadays universal products such as riojan chorizo or the camerano cheese are just two examples.
Link to the land
Both Riojan chorizo and Camerano cheese are nowadays consumed all over the world, but they maintain their link with the land from which they come. It is in La Rioja where they are made with care, following a traditional process that has been maintained for years and which gives them a unique flavor.
Activities such as agriculture, livestock farming and transhumance contributed to the creation of an economy of indigenous production and subsistence in the region, in which foods such as cheese and sausages were both family sustenance and barter items.
It is not in vain that Camerano cheese, originally from the Sierra de Cameros, has almost 700 years of history and has been present in the lives of the people of La Rioja since the 13th century. Gonzalo de Berceo himself mentioned it in his “Obras Completas”.
Made from goat's milk, it can be presented as fresh, semi-cured or cured cheese, and stands out for the appearance of its rind, in which the marks of the cilla or braided wicker mold used in its preparation can be appreciated.
Chorizo riojano also has a very characteristic appearance, in the shape of a string or horseshoe, with a very firm consistency and an intense aroma, with hints of garlic and paprika that give it its unique flavor.
Quality products
Over the years, production processes have been perfected, adapted to new consumer tastes and market needs and have even made the international leap beyond our borders.
But all this has been produced keeping intact the quality and flavor that make them unique foods.
The Indicación Geográfica Protegida IGP chorizo riojano ensures that the highest quality standards are maintained in the processing, maturing, drying and labeling stages. Likewise, the Consejo Regulador de la Denominación de Origen Queso Camerano, guarantees that it complies with all the necessary hygienic-sanitary provisions and that it has been made with milk from Riojan goats.
Together they taste better
The result is two products that are highly appreciated all over the world and which also contribute to the economic and social development of the region. Because the history of La Rioja is that of a community that has always known how to get the best out of the land, working together.
And is there anything better than tasting a cheese and chorizo tapa, washed down with a good local wine?
