Matera: Mozzarella and Cheese tasting with a Cheesemaker

An Authentic Cheese-Making Experience in Matera for $78

This 2-hour tour in Matera, offered at $78.06 per person, provides a rare opportunity to learn handmade cheese making directly from a master cheesemaker. The experience is designed for those who appreciate culinary traditions and want an immersive taste of local dairy crafts. The tour departs from Via Ionio, 33 in Montescaglioso and is limited to 16 participants, making it an intimate setting for learning and tasting.

What makes this experience especially appealing is the combination of educational insight into cheese production, a hearty farmer’s breakfast, and tastings of over 100 types of cheese. It’s perfect for foodies, culinary travelers, or anyone interested in authentic Italian cheese culture. The only notable consideration is that it does not include private transportation, so planning your arrival is recommended.

Key Points

• Price of $78.06 per person for a 2-hour cheese-making experience
• Guided by a master cheesemaker, sharing knowledge of traditional methods
• Includes a farmer’s breakfast with organic dairy, bread, honey, jam, and homemade treats
• Tastings of over 100 types of cheese, from milk to processed varieties
• Participants assist with milk processing, mozzarella stretching, and cheese making
• Small group size of up to 16 travelers ensures personalized attention

Discovering Matera’s Cheese Tradition with a Master Cheesemaker

This cheese tasting tour is based in Matera and focuses on handmade mozzarella and cheese production. Led by Latteria Nicola, the experience begins with an explanation of the family business’s history and its three-generation tradition of cheese making. The guide offers insight into local dairy practices and the cultural importance of cheese in the region.

The tour’s format emphasizes interactive participation, as visitors are encouraged to assist with milk processing and stretching mozzarella by hand. This hands-on approach makes the experience more engaging and educational, providing a deeper understanding of traditional cheese craftsmanship.

Casa di Latteria Nicola: Family-Owned Dairy in Matera

The activity takes place at Latteria Nicola, a family-run dairy with a reputation for authentic cheese production. The owners Nicola and his wife are praised for their warm hospitality and expertise, which shine through during the visit. Their small-scale operation produces a variety of cheeses, starting from fresh milk to over 100 cheese types.

Visitors get to see local dairy processes firsthand, from milking to cheese shaping, and learn about the processing phases that produce the region’s traditional cheeses. The small group size ensures a personalized experience where questions are welcomed, and detailed explanations are provided.

The Tasty Farmer’s Breakfast and Homemade Delights

The tour includes a typical farmer’s breakfast featuring organic dairy products like yoghurt, milk, and butter, alongside honey, jam, and homemade bread. The breakfast is a highlight, offering a comprehensive taste of local, organic ingredients directly from the dairy farm.

This meal complements the cheese tasting by providing authentic flavors and homemade treats that highlight the region’s culinary simplicity and quality. Bottled water and snacks are also included, ensuring visitors stay refreshed throughout the experience.

Setting out on a Cheese Processing Journey

Participants will explore each processing phase, starting from fresh milk and moving through cooking, cheese shaping, and stretching mozzarella by hand. The guide explains the science behind cheese making, blending technical details with cultural stories that give context to this regional craft.

The assistive activities involve traditional techniques, such as hand-stretching mozzarella, which adds an authentic touch to the experience. The focus is on learning by doing, making it suitable for those eager to gain practical skills along with tasting.

Over 100 Cheese Varieties and Tasting Opportunities

The tour features more than 100 cheese types, with tastings woven throughout the activity. Visitors sample fresh mozzarella, as well as processed cheeses, yoghurts, and butter. The guide provides insights into the processing phases, giving attendees a comprehensive understanding of local cheese production.

After the hands-on activities, guests enjoy a variety of cheeses and homemade delicacies. The experience culminates with a small surprise gift to take home, adding a memorable token of the day.

Convenient Meeting Point and Tour Duration

The activity begins at Via Ionio, 33 in Montescaglioso, a location accessible near public transportation. The approximate duration of 2 hours makes it manageable for most itineraries, allowing travelers to fit it into a day of exploring Matera and nearby areas.

Since the tour ends back at the starting point, no additional transportation arrangements are necessary. The mobile ticket format allows for easy check-in and flexibility on the day of the experience.

No Need to Worry About Cancellation or Large Groups

Booking this tour is straightforward with the option of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The small group size of 16 ensures a personalized learning environment, avoiding overcrowding and allowing plenty of interaction with the guide.

This tour is suited to those with lactose intolerance or allergies—though not recommended for travelers with lactose or milk allergies—ensuring guests are aware of the dairy focus.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Matera

What sets this cheese-making experience apart is the combination of education, hands-on activity, and tasting. The expertise of the guides, especially Nicola and his wife, helps bridge science and tradition, making the process accessible and enjoyable. The local family operation offers an authentic glimpse into Matera’s dairy heritage.

Most importantly, the tour offers a comprehensive introduction to over 100 cheese varieties, paired with a satisfying farmer’s breakfast. Visitors leave with skills, knowledge, and a small gift—a memorable souvenir of Matera’s culinary art.

Ideal Audience for the Cheese Tasting Tour

This experience caters well to food lovers, culinary curious, and those interested in traditional Italian cheese-making. It’s a great choice for travelers seeking an interactive activity that combines learning with delicious tastings. The limited group size and personalized guidance make it suitable for families, couples, or small groups looking for an authentic, hands-on experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, private transportation is not included. The meeting point is at Via Ionio, 33 in Montescaglioso.

Are there any dietary restrictions to consider?
The tour is focused on dairy products. It is not recommended for travelers with lactose intolerance or milk allergies.

What is the duration of the experience?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

What’s included in the price?
The price includes a farmer’s breakfast, cheese tastings, bottled water, snacks, and a guide.

Is there a small gift at the end?
Yes, participants receive a small surprise to bring home.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.