Queso DOP Cabrales from the Maestro Quesero range is a traditional Asturian blue cheese produced in accordance with Protected Designation of Origin standards, using raw milk from cows, goats, and sheep raised in the Picos de Europa area. The production process involves curd formation followed by maturation in natural limestone caves, where high humidity and stable low temperatures promote the development of characteristic blue-green veining through the action of Penicillium molds.
The texture is compact yet creamy, with a slightly moist exterior and a dense interior without large openings. On the palate, it is intense and structured, often showing pronounced spiciness, mild acidity, and persistent savory notes. The aroma is strong and complex, with hints of damp earth, fermentation, and aged dairy.
Depending on the proportion of different milks used, the flavor can range from relatively balanced to highly assertive. Within the Maestro Quesero line, this cheese maintains the essential traits of traditional Cabrales while benefiting from controlled production for greater consistency.
It is widely regarded as one of Spain’s most distinctive blue cheeses and a clear expression of the mountainous Asturian terroir.
Producer
Maestro Quesero is a cheese brand from Asturias owned by Corporación Alimentaria Peñasanta (CAPSA), one of the leading dairy producers in northern Spain. The brand brings together a range of traditional Asturian cheeses, many of which carry Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, combining regional raw materials with controlled production processes.
Its approach focuses on preserving the defining characteristics of local cheese styles while ensuring consistency and wider market availability. The portfolio includes cheeses such as Cabrales PDO and Vidiago, representing different expressions of Asturian cheesemaking, from intense blue-veined varieties to milder, creamier types. The Cabrales within this range follows PDO specifications, developing strong blue veining and a pronounced, complex flavor, while cheeses like Vidiago offer a softer texture and a more subtle aromatic profile.
Production integrates industrial precision with elements of traditional techniques, particularly in maturation and flavor development, allowing for a balance between authenticity and reliability. This method ensures that each batch maintains a stable quality while still reflecting regional identity.
Some of their products have gained recognition in international competitions, including awards at events such as the World Cheese Awards. Overall, Maestro Quesero represents a contemporary interpretation of Asturian cheesemaking, adapting traditional styles to a broader market without fully departing from their original character.