Discover Kefalonia Cheeses: A Guide to Local Delights and Wine Pairings

Kefalonia, the jewel of the Ionian Sea, isn’t just about stunning views and sandy beaches—it’s also home to some truly fantastic cheeses. These cheeses are made with care and tradition and bring incredible flavours to everyday dishes. Let’s take a closer look at a few of the most popular ones and how you can enjoy them.

Feta: The Classic Favourite

Feta is a household name for a reason. This salty, crumbly cheese, made from sheep’s or goat’s milk, is a real crowd-pleaser. It adds a fresh, tangy kick and is perfect for tossing into a Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives. Want something warm? Bake it with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of herbs—simple, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious.

Mizithra: Smooth and Creamy

Mizithra is a soft, fresh cheese like a milder version of ricotta. It’s great for desserts—drizzle it with honey or layer it in a flaky pastry for a sweet treat. On the savoury side, you’ll find it melting into pasta dishes, adding a gentle, creamy touch without overpowering the other flavours.

Kefalotyri: The Bold One – Hard Cheese

If you enjoy cheese with a bit of a kick, Kefalotyri is the one for you. This firm, salty cheese is excellent when grated over baked dishes such as moussaka or pastitsio. However, it truly excels on its own—grilled to perfection in a dish known as saganaki, it becomes golden on the outside and gooey in the centre. It’s pure comfort food.

Prentza: A Local Treasure

Prentza is unique to Kefalonia and has a soft, slightly tangy flavour. Made from a blend of goat’s and sheep’s milk and seasoned with local herbs like oregano and thyme, this creamy cheese is perfect for spreading on crusty bread or serving with olives. It also shines in savoury pies or as part of meze platters. For a refined experience, pair Prentza with a medium-bodied Rosé Agiorgitiko. Its balanced acidity and fruity notes beautifully complement the tangy character of Prentza.

Ladotyri: A Taste of Tradition

Ladotyri is aged in olive oil, giving it a rich, nutty flavour that makes it stand out among Greek cheeses. This firmer cheese pairs wonderfully with wine, figs, or nuts—perfect for a cheeseboard or light snack. Its robust flavour offers an indulgent experience when enjoyed with Robola wine; the wine’s crisp acidity and fruity notes enhance the cheese’s olive oil-infused richness, creating a delightful balance.

How to Enjoy These Cheeses

Kefalonian cheeses aren’t just ingredients—they’re part of the island’s history and way of life. Whether you’re enjoying a slice of feta in a salad or dipping bread into a creamy Prentza spread, you’re experiencing the true taste of Kefalonia itself.

Wine Pairing Suggestions for Kefalonian Cheeses

• Feta: Pair feta with crisp, dry Robola wine. This local white wine has fresh citrusy notes that balance feta’s salty tang.
• Mizithra: Mizithra’s mild flavour pairs beautifully with light, floral Moschofilero.
• Kefalotyri: The bold nature of kefalotyri pairs best with robust red Mavrodaphne.
• Prentza: A medium-bodied Rosé Agiorgitiko enhances Prentza’s tangy character.
• Ladotyri: Ladotyri’s nutty richness pairs perfectly with Robola.

By combining these exceptional cheeses with their ideal wine partners, you’ll capture the true taste of Kefalonia! If you ever visit the island, be sure to try these cheeses at local tavernas or pick some up from nearby markets. You’ll find that each one tells its own story and brings a bit of Kefalonia’s charm to your plate!

Experience Kefalonia at Amari Villa

Enjoy the delightful flavours of Kefalonia cheeses while staying at Amari Villa! Our luxurious villa offers the perfect base for your culinary adventures. Indulge in local cheeses like Feta, Mizithra, and Prentza, and pair them with exquisite wines from the region. After a day of exploring the island’s rich gastronomic offerings, unwind in our beautiful villa with breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea. Book your stay at Amari Villa Kefalonia today and savour the true taste of this enchanting island!