Kopanisti

Kopanisti is a traditional Greek cheese originating from the island of Mykonos. It is a piquant, spicy cheese made from a mixture of sheep's and goat's milk, often with a small proportion of cow's milk added. The characteristic spicy flavor comes from the addition of black pepper and sometimes other spices during the cheesemaking process.

The cheese is characterized by its crumbly texture and its strong, distinctive aroma. Kopanisti typically has a creamy white to yellowish color. Its production is a labor-intensive process, often carried out by local families using time-honored methods. The curd is kneaded and matured for a period of several months, during which the flavors develop and intensify.

Kopanisti is a protected designation of origin (PDO) product within the European Union, meaning that only cheese produced in specific regions of Greece according to established methods can be labeled as such. It is a popular ingredient in Greek cuisine, often served as part of a meze platter, spread on bread, or incorporated into salads and other dishes. Its robust flavor makes it a versatile accompaniment to wine and other beverages.