What makes this particular Parmigiano so special is that it’s aged 40 months. Yes, that’s 3 years and 4 months! And yes, it is distinctively nutty, with a full and fruity aroma, intense notes of melted butter, and a wonderfully crumbly texture that only comes with such age. A Parmesan this good isn’t just for grating over pasta (though it is excellent there). It’s entirely enjoyable on its own, maybe with a drizzle of honey, or slices of your favorite fall apples. Adding it to your holiday cheeseboard will add a wow factor that’s undeniable. It’s made in the Parma-Reggio Emilia region (official P.D.O.), with strict adherence to traditions handed down over nearly one-thousand years—from the production of the milk, through the entire cheese-making process. Just three ingredients are used: the highest quality raw cow’s milk, animal rennet, and salt. We suppose you might consider ‘knowledge’ a fourth ingredient—the knowledge applied to making and inspecting each wheel of Parmigiano as it matures over time. Only the best wheels are chosen to go the 40-month distance, and this Trader Joe’s cheese certainly makes the cut.