Sao Jorge Cheese Cooperative

The Cheese Cooperative of São Jorge, headquartered in Velas, is the heart of production of the most famous PDO matured cheese in the Azores and one of the most recognised in Portugal. Founded in 1939, the cooperative brings together dozens of local producers and transforms the milk from cows grazing in the green pastures of São Jorge into a semi-hard cheese with intense and slightly spicy flavour, aged between three months and more than a year.

Guided visits to the facilities allow you to observe the production process, from milk reception to the aging chamber, and inevitably end with a tasting of the different stages of cheese maturation. The cooperative's shop is the best place to buy cheese directly from the producer, guaranteeing freshness and authenticity. Admission for the visit has a symbolic cost and includes tasting.

Visiting hours normally run during the morning on weekdays; it is recommended to confirm availability by phone before going. A compulsory visit for those who appreciate gastronomy and want to understand the cultural identity of São Jorge.