Vitor Fernandes - Queijaria Artesanal
Queijo de Azeitão DOP
Cheeses
Queijo de Azeitão DOP produced by Víctor Fernandes is a handcrafted Portuguese cheese made from sheep’s milk, originating from the Palmela region near the Serra da Arrábida, where the rich local flora enhances the milk’s aromatic depth. It is made using natural vegetable rennet and shaped in small molds before maturing in controlled conditions that allow it to develop a thin, soft rind and an exceptionally creamy layer just beneath it.
The aroma is intense, combining milky and herbal notes with gentle spiciness and subtle earthy nuances. Its flavor brings together saltiness, buttery richness and light animal tones typical of sheep’s milk cheeses, while the texture becomes notably spreadable when the cheese reaches room temperature.
Thanks to its authentic terroir expression and artisanal production, this Azeitão is considered one of the emblematic cheeses of the region and a frequent choice in gourmet selections that highlight traditional Portuguese cheesemaking.
Producer
Queijaria Artesanal Víctor Fernandes is a small family-run cheesemaker from Palmela in the Setúbal region, specializing in traditional Queijo de Azeitão DOP since 1988. Production is based on fresh sheep’s milk sourced from pastures at the foothills of the Serra da Arrábida, where the local flora strongly influences the intensity and aromatic character of the milk.
The cheese is crafted entirely by hand, using natural vegetable rennet and a carefully controlled process of coagulation, molding and maturation. During aging it develops a soft, delicate rind and an exceptionally creamy layer beneath it, while the center remains firm yet supple.
The aromatic profile combines milky and herbal notes, gentle spiciness and subtle earthy nuances that become more pronounced with longer ripening. Víctor Fernandes follows the traditional techniques passed down from the renowned “Migalheiro” of Quinta Velha, which explains the finesse and consistent quality of his cheeses.
The dairy has earned multiple awards at international competitions, and its products are regarded as an authentic expression of the Azeitão terroir.