Among Spain’s many contributions to the culinary world, Spanish cheeses and Spanish olives may be among their best. Our latest Spotlight Cheese, Gran Capitan Oliva Negra, is a savory salute to these two Spanish specialties. Made by the same supplier as previous Spotlight entry Gran Capitan Reserva, Gran Capitan Oliva Negra follows its predecessors’ suit in being made with a mix of multiple kinds of milk, this time combining cow, sheep, and goat for a complex range of creaminess, nuttiness, and tartness. Where it truly sets itself apart, however, is in the introduction of rich veins of briny black olive paste, which brings on a whole other level of umami-forward flavors to every bite.

As the largest producer of olives on the planet, providing roughly half the world’s olive oil every year, Spain is well celebrated for its olives, and Gran Capitan Oliva Negra feels like a celebration in and of itself. We find that its easy, Manchego-like texture and assertive flavors of olive make it an ideal inclusion for any charcuterie board or cheese plate. We recommend pairing it up with some fresh, sliced stonefruit, a handful of Rosemary Marcona Almonds, and, if you’d really like to enjoy the full expression of the Spanish olive experience, a light drizzle of our Spanish Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil. ¡Buen provecho!