In the world of cheese, two varieties stand out for their flavor, versatility, and health benefits: goat cheese and sheep cheese. Far from being just a gourmet indulgence, these cheeses are an essential part of Spanish culinary tradition, with centuries of history behind them and a growing nutritional value recognized by more and more experts. Whether for their digestibility, protein content, or richness in minerals, including goat and sheep cheese in your diet can be a decision that is as delicious as it is smart.
In this article, we’ll explain why these traditional cheeses deserve a prominent place at your table—with facts, culture, and flavor.
And if you’d like to try some of our fabulous goat and sheep cheeses, feel free to browse our online catalog. We ship all across Europe. You can choose express air delivery, which takes 24 to 48 business hours, or ground delivery, which arrives at your doorstep within 6 to 9 business days.
Nutritional Benefits of Goat and Sheep Cheese
A Rich Source of High-Quality Protein
Both goat and sheep cheeses are rich in high-quality proteins. This means they contain all the essential amino acids your body needs, making them an excellent ally in diets aimed at maintaining or gaining muscle mass—especially for active individuals or older adults.
What’s more, due to its higher concentration, sheep cheese provides more protein than cow cheese, and its fat profile makes it even more nutritious. It’s ideal as a healthy snack or as a main ingredient in salads, toast, or cheese boards.
Healthy Fats and Better Digestibility
One of the greatest benefits of goat cheese is its superior digestibility. This is due to the presence of short- and medium-chain fatty acids, which are more easily metabolized. It also contains less lactose and has a different casein structure, making it more tolerable for many people with sensitive digestion or mild lactose intolerance.
Sheep cheese, on the other hand, is rich in healthy fats such as conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids, making it an appealing food for cardiovascular health—especially when it comes from naturally fed or pasture-raised sheep. We show you the best cheeses to give as gifts
Cheeses with History: Tradition and Health in Every Bite
Sheep Cheese: A Pillar of the Mediterranean Diet
Sheep cheese has been a part of rural life and Southern European cuisine for centuries, and in Spain, we produce some of the finest in the world—like Manchego cheese.
Visit our online catalog and try the aged Manchego cheese Artequeso, a true delight for your palate. It’s made from raw milk from Manchega sheep and aged for 10 to 12 months at the La Prudenciana estate in Toledo. Its production, often artisanal and closely tied to the natural environment, gives it high cultural and nutritional value.
If you’re a fan of Manchego but prefer a milder flavor than the aged version, we also offer Artequeso semi-cured Manchego —a treat for dairy lovers. Aged for 3 to 4 months in Toledo, it has a creamy texture and a mild, smooth flavor.
That said, enjoying sheep cheese is not just about savoring a delicious product—it’s also about supporting extensive livestock farming, fair trade, and sustainability. Additionally, it’s an excellent source of calcium, zinc, and B vitamins, which help maintain strong bones and a healthy immune system.
Goat Cheese: Perfect for Those with Lactose Intolerance
Although not all goat cheeses are completely lactose-free, many contain very low levels due to the fermentation and aging processes. Combined with its unique protein composition, this makes goat cheese easier to digest and better tolerated by many people with dairy sensitivities.
Its mild or slightly tangy flavor—depending on how long it’s aged—also makes it a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. It pairs wonderfully with fruits, nuts, or even honey. Plus, it typically contains less fat than other aged cheeses, making it a lighter option for daily consumption.
If you’re a goat cheese lover, we invite you to try our aged organic goat cheese. If you care about organic food and are passionate about cheese, you’ll love this one. We offer it in wedge format. What makes it special is that it’s crafted by a cheesemaker founded at the end of the last century—meaning the care, dedication, and craftsmanship behind each piece are clearly present in this 100% natural product.
If you’re into unique cheeses and love goat cheese, we recommend our paprika-coated goat cheese, available in our Gastronomic Spain online store. A true gastronomic gem you can now enjoy at your table—no matter where you are in Europe. Here we show you how to preserve Spanish cheese depending on its format and type.
Traditional Flavor with Real Benefits
Goat and sheep cheeses are not just a treat for the senses—they’re also complete foods, packed with health and nutritional benefits. They provide high-quality proteins, healthy fats, essential minerals, and, above all, a connection to authenticity, craftsmanship, and timeless flavor.
Whether you’re an athlete, a cheese enthusiast, or just looking for a meaningful gift for someone living in Europe, we’ll ship it for you.
If you want to care for your health without giving up great taste, give these traditional cheeses a try. At Gastronomic Spain, you’ll find a wide selection of goat and sheep cheeses, made in Spain, aged with care, and ready for you to enjoy at home.
We invite you to explore our cheese section from the best Spanish brands and find your favorite today.
