Matera: Mozzarella and Cheese tasting with a Cheesemaker

Discover the art of cheese making in Matera with a local cheesemaker

This guided cheese tasting and making session in Matera offers a fascinating glimpse into Italy’s cheese traditions, all hosted by a master cheesemaker with over 50 years of experience. The experience combines a traditional farmer’s breakfast with hands-on mozzarella stretching and a wide variety of cheese tastings. It’s a chance to learn about local dairies, family traditions, and the craftsmanship behind some of Italy’s most beloved cheeses.

What makes this experience special are two key aspects: first, the opportunity to see and participate in the actual cheese-making process, not just taste the results; second, the warm, inviting atmosphere created by hosts who clearly love sharing their craft. The reviews highlight how engaging and authentic the experience feels, with guests feeling like part of a family rather than just travelers.

One potential consideration is the price point of $67.19 per person, which, while reasonable for a hands-on, multi-course cheese experience in Italy, might seem high if you’re on a tight budget. It’s worth noting that the tour includes a vacuum-packed cheese to take home, adding extra value for cheese lovers wanting a taste of Italy long after their visit.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic cheese-making: Learn from a cheesemaker with over 50 years of experience, offering real insight into traditional techniques.
• Hands-on experience: Participate in stretching mozzarella and see the process up close, not just observe.
• Diverse tastings: Sample cheeses from fresh mozzarella and burrata to semi-fresh, semi-mature, and mature cheeses, offering a broad flavor range.
• Local farm breakfast: Enjoy a hearty, organic, farm-fresh breakfast with yogurt, milk, butter, honey, and homemade bread.
• Family tradition: The family business has been passed down through three generations, adding genuine local flavor to the experience.
• Take-home cheese: Receive a vacuum-packed cheese like Provolone or Scamorza, which can last up to 20 days, perfect for sharing back home.

An authentic taste of Matera’s cheese traditions

The experience kicks off with a warm welcome at a quaint location near the cheese shop, where you’ll start with a farmers’ breakfast of organic dairy products. This isn’t just a quick bite—think fresh yogurt, milk, butter, homemade bread, honey, jam, and more. It sets the tone for a day of genuine, farm-fresh flavors and gives you a sense of the rural roots of Matera’s cheese tradition.

From here, your guide will introduce you to the family business’s history, emphasizing how these recipes and techniques have been handed down for three generations. It’s a reminder that what you’re about to see and taste is rooted in real family pride and local culture rather than mass-produced cheese.

The mozzarella stretching demo and hands-on activity

One of the highlights is the mozzarella stretching demonstration, which is more than just watching — you’ll actually get to try your hand at making the cheese. Guided by an expert, you’ll learn how to turn fresh curds into the iconic, soft, elastic mozzarella. This is a rare chance to see the traditional hand-stretching technique that makes Italian mozzarella so unique.

Several reviews, like Daniel’s, mention how watching an expert at work with over half a century of experience was a real highlight and made the whole experience feel authentic. This isn’t a scripted demonstration; it’s a warm, engaging tutorial that makes you appreciate the skill involved.

Sampling a wide variety of cheeses

After the mozzarella hands-on, the tasting begins in earnest. You’ll sample two fresh cheeses—like mozzarella and burrata—and then move on to two semi-fresh cheeses and two semi-matured cheeses, finally ending with two mature cheeses. This progression showcases how aging impacts flavor, texture, and aroma, giving you a mini cheese education.

Guests consistently praise the variety and quality of the cheeses, with Nicoletta calling the hosts “great” and the setting “very cute,” and Graziella simply describing the experience as “amazing.” The thoughtfully curated cheese selection allows you to understand the nuances of Italian cheese-making better, especially when paired with local bread and homemade treats.

The take-home cheese and final surprises

At the end, you’ll receive a vacuum-packed cheese—either Provolone, Scamorza, or another type—that can last up to 20 days. This is an excellent value, especially if you’re traveling back home with limited luggage space. The host also offers a small surprise gift, adding a personal touch to the experience.

Practical details and considerations

This experience lasts about two hours, making it manageable even for those with tight schedules. The guided tour begins at the brown door beside the cheese shop, a convenient starting point within Matera’s charming streets. It’s important to note that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to and from the meeting point.

The tour is conducted by an Italian-speaking guide fluent in English, ensuring clarity and friendliness. Since the activity involves handling dairy products, it’s not suitable for those with lactose intolerance, but it’s perfect for anyone eager to see real cheese craftsmanship firsthand.

The cost of $67.19 is reasonable considering the extensive tastings, hands-on activity, and the quality of the cheeses you take home. If you’re a cheese enthusiast or simply curious about local food traditions, this experience offers excellent value.

Who would love this experience?

If you enjoy authentic culinary experiences, love learning new skills, or want a personal glimpse into Italian rural life, this tour is perfect. It’s especially suited for foodies, families, or couples looking for a meaningful activity that combines education and taste. Those who appreciate local family businesses and handmade products will find this particularly rewarding.

The Sum Up: a genuine taste of Matera’s cheese heritage

This cheese-making experience in Matera provides more than just cheese tastings; it’s a window into Italy’s artisanal traditions. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind mozzarella and other cheeses, all while enjoying a hearty farm breakfast that sets the tone for the day. The ability to participate in the stretching process makes it memorable and engaging, and the variety of cheeses offers a full spectrum of flavors.

For travelers who value authentic, hands-on experiences and want a behind-the-scenes look at Italy’s cheese culture, this tour delivers on all fronts. Expect warm hosts, expert guidance, and plenty of delicious cheese to take home. It’s a solid choice for those looking to add a flavorful, educational stop to their Matera visit.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
No, transportation to and from the meeting point is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to the starting location, which is near the cheese shop.

What languages are spoken during the tour?
The tour is conducted in Italian and English, ensuring explanations are accessible to most travelers.

Can I participate if I am lactose intolerant?
This experience involves handling dairy products, so it’s not suitable for those with lactose intolerance.

How long does the experience last?
The entire experience lasts about two hours.

What do I get to take home?
You’ll receive a vacuum-packed cheese, such as Provolone or Scamorza, which can last up to 20 days, making it ideal for sharing with friends and family.

Is the cheese tasting suitable for all ages?
Yes, most ages can enjoy the tasting, but children should be supervised when participating in the cheese-making activity.

Are there any additional costs?
No, all tastings, the farmer’s breakfast, cheese-making demo, and the take-home cheese are included in the price.

Is this experience suitable for families?
Yes, families who enjoy food and hands-on activities will find this a fun and educational outing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This cheese experience in Matera offers an authentic taste of Italian rural life, perfect for those eager to learn, taste, and participate in a traditional craft. It’s a memorable, flavorful addition to any Matera itinerary.