The El Duje Cheese Factory: An Artisanal Treasure in the Heart of the Picos de Europa
History and Cheese Tradition
The El Duje Cheese Factory is located in the charming village of Tielve, in the heart of the Picos de Europa National Park. Its origins date back several generations, when the Herrero Ballesteros family began to produce artisanal cheeses with the milk from their own herds of cows, sheep, and goats.
With over a century of cheese-making tradition, the El Duje Cheese Factory has been passed down from generation to generation, perfecting ancestral techniques and adapting to modern times without losing the essence of its product. Today, under the expert direction of Carmen Herrero, the cheese factory continues to produce cheeses in a completely artisanal way, using only the fresh milk from its animals and respecting traditional methods.
Awards and Recognition
The exceptional quality of the El Duje Cheese Factory's cheeses has been recognized internationally. In 2011, its Cabrales Cheese was awarded the First Prize in the prestigious XXVII International Competition of Blue Cheeses and Veined Paste, a feat that demonstrates the excellence of this product and the mastery of its producers.
Additionally, over the years, the El Duje Cheese Factory has received numerous awards and distinctions in national and international competitions, consolidating its reputation as one of the benchmarks of Cabrales cheese.
Artisanal and Sustainable Production
Each cheese from the El Duje Cheese Factory is the result of a careful process of artisanal production. Starting with the milking of the cows, sheep, and goats, the milk is collected and processed entirely by hand, without the use of industrial machinery.
The maturation process is carried out in natural caves located in the mountains, where the temperature and humidity conditions allow the cheeses to develop their characteristic aroma and texture. This ancestral technique, respectful of the environment, guarantees the authenticity and quality of the final product.
Unique Gastronomic Experience
In addition to its exquisite cheeses, the El Duje Cheese Factory offers visitors a unique gastronomic experience. In its restaurant, visitors can savor typical dishes of Asturian cuisine, such as the famous fabada, the stewed kid, or the homemade cheesecake, all accompanied by the unparalleled natural cider.
Dairy lovers can also visit the cheese factory and witness the production process, as well as purchase the freshly matured cheeses directly. An opportunity to learn firsthand about the cheese-making tradition of the Picos de Europa.
Privileged Natural Environment
Tielve, the home of the El Duje Cheese Factory, is a village with a strong mountain character, located at the foot of the imposing Picos de Europa. Surrounded by dreamlike landscapes, this privileged enclave offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the region, whether through peaceful hiking trails or exciting high-mountain excursions.
In addition, the cheese factory has rural accommodation, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the culture and traditions of this unique area of Asturias.
Contact Information
El Duje Cheese Factory Tielve de Cabrales, Asturias 33554 Phone: +34 985 84 59 02 Email: elduje@hotmail.com, elduje@gmail.com