Best European Dairy Product Types
Irish butter refers to butter made in Ireland from the milk of cows that have been grass-fed, often without the use of growth hormones or antibiotics. This high-quality milk, rich in beta-carotene, results in a butter with a distinctive rich, creamy flavor and a natural golden color.
The grass-fed diet of the cows has a significant impact on the flavor and texture of the butter, making it prized in culinary applications. The temperate climate in Ireland allows cows to graze on lush grasses for much of the year, leading to these unique characteristics.
Leche certificada de Granja is the certified farmhouse milk produced across Spain according to a strict set of rules and guidelines ensuring the best quality and characteristic properties. This milk is produced on small farms by pure-bred cows.
To preserve its natural characteristics, this milk is minimally processed and is only pasteurized and immediately packaged on the farm. Leche certificada de Granja can also be sold raw because of the high hygienic standards that are kept on certified farms.
Kiselo mlyako, also known as Bulgarian yogurt, is often cited as one of the oldest and the first types of yogurt that appeared in the world. It is made without any additives, typically from cow, sheep, buffalo, goat milk, or a mixture of these and the two types of probiotic bacteria – Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus, which was discovered by the Bulgarian microbiologist Stamen Grigorov.
Kiselo mlyako is praised for its rich, creamy flavor and great nutritional value. It is a staple in Bulgarian cuisine and it although it is commonly enjoyed as a drink, it is also often used as an ingredient or a condiment. This dairy beverage is also popular in North Macedonia, Serbia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Devonshire clotted cream is a traditional thick cream characterized by its high butterfat content (64%). Clotted cream has been a staple of both Devon and Cornwall for a long time, and it's been a cause for friendly rivalry for as long as anyone can remember.
The product is nowadays made with centrifuges, but in the past full-fat raw cow's milk or cream was first heated in shallow pans, and it was then moved to a cool place so that the thin skimmed milk can sink underneath the thick cream. The watery milk was removed, and the rest was layered in pots, creating clotted cream in the process.
Beurre d'Isigny is a butter made from pasteurized milk and cream in the Veys Bay and surrounding valleys in France. No additional colorings, creams or substances can be added to the product. The butter is golden yellow in color due to the high amounts of carotenoids in it.
The Veys Bay and the surrounding area are made of chalky, clay soil near the sea and have top quality pastures where the grass is very rich in iodine and beta-carotene. The soil and pastures give the milk a unique taste, color and high mineral salt content, all of which can be seen and tasted in the final product - d'Isigny Butter.
THE BEST Beurre d'Isigny Butters
Isigny Sainte-Mère
Beurre d'Isigny A.O.P Demi sel Rouleau
Concours International de Lyon - Gold 2025
Žemaitiškas kastinys is a traditionally made sour cream product which is produced throughout Lithuania and well known in the Žemaitija region in western Lithuania. Sour cream and butter are heated, stirred with circular hand movements and cooled until the final product develops a thick texture that melts in the mouth. Kastinys is yellow and has a mild, delicate, acidic, slightly salty and sour taste.
Additionally, various herbs and spices can be added to the mixture, such as black pepper, caraway, dill, garlic, onion or allspice. It is perfect with a variety of hot dishes like pasta, dumplings and potatoes, and when melted, it becomes a flavorsome, savory sauce.
Often referred to as one of the oldest fermented ingredients in the world, yogurt is produced by bacterial fermentation of milk. This versatile ingredient can vary in texture and consistency, depending on the origin, choice of milk, and techniques involved in its production, but its flavor is usually subtly tangy.
The widely accepted belief is that yogurt was discovered by accident when fresh milk was transported in animal skins. The enzymes present in the skin enabled milk to ferment and curdle, creating yogurt. It is estimated that its discovery dates back to 6000 BC, and though the word stems from Turkish, it was probably invented simultaneously in different places, mainly in the Middle East, Central Asia, and the Balkans.
VARIATIONS OF Yogurt
THE BEST Yogurt Dairy Products
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Old Chatham Creamery
Sheep's Milk Yogurt
American Cheese Society Judging & Competition Awards - 1st Place 2002
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Greek yogurt is a type of strained yogurt that is denser and more creamy than regular yogurt. It is made from cultured and fermented milk that is strained, usually through fine mesh strainers or cloth bags, until the whey is separated from the solids and the yogurt reaches its desired consistency and texture.
The result is a white, creamy, soft, and smooth yogurt with a clean, slightly tart flavor. It is easily spreadable and incorporated into various dishes. Strained yogurts are known under different names, and they are common in numerous Balkan and Middle Eastern countries.
THE BEST Greek yogurt Dairy Products
The production of haymilk is the most primitive form of milk production that is adapted to the changing seasons. Austria's principal production areas are Tyrol, Salzburg, and Styria. Dairy cows spend their summer grazing on domestic pastures, where they can enjoy fresh air, clean water and plenty of various herbs and grasses.
Even in winter, they are fed with the highest quality of nutrients, particularly sun-dried hay. The abundance of plants in this area is crucial for the exceptional quality and flavor of the milk, which is rich in healthy Omega-3 fatty acids. Used in the production of hard cheeses and chocolate, this high-quality raw milk delights with its refined and outstanding flavor.
Crème fraîche is a traditional cream with the addition of lactic bacteria starter, thickening the cream in the process and giving it a slightly sharp flavor that's not sour. It originated in the regions of Normandy, Franche-Comté, Alsace, and the northern Loire.
This product is usually left to ferment for up to 20 hours, and it's pasteurized. Regarding the fat content, it varies from one product to another, and there is also a liquid version that's barely fermented. Crème fraîche is often used with baked goods, sauces, and soups, but it's also regularly served over fruit and used in the preparation of desserts.
VARIATIONS OF Crème fraîche
THE BEST Crème fraîche Creams
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Bellwether Farms
Crème Fraiche
American Cheese Society Judging & Competition Awards - 1st Place 2003, 2004, 2010, 2024
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Alouette Cheese
Creme Fraiche
American Cheese Society Judging & Competition Awards - 1st Place 2005, 2015
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Best European Dairy Product Producers
Fromagerie Germain is a renowned French cheesemaker located in the Grand Est region, specializing in the production of traditional soft cheeses such as Chaource, Époisses, and Soumaintrain. With a commitment to preserving artisanal methods, the company balances heritage with modern production techniques.
Their facilities at ZAE Champ Miolin in Vaux-sous-Aubigny support both local and international distribution, making Fromagerie Germain a key player in the fine cheese market, celebrated for its high-quality and authentic flavors.
AWARDS
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World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2023, 2022, 2021
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Concours International de Lyon - Gold
2025
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World Cheese Awards - Gold
2024, 2022, 2021
BEST Fromagerie Germain Cheeses
Stani is an authentic traditional dairy confectionery founded in 1931 in Athens, Greece. It is renowned for producing traditional Greek yogurt made from cow's and sheep's milk, which has earned a certificate of authenticity and a gold medal at the International Food Exhibition in Thessaloniki.
In addition to yogurt, "Stani" offers a variety of other dairy delights such as rice pudding, creams, loukoumades (Greek honey doughnuts), and assorted pastries, which have gained recognition among both local and international visitors. Their dedication to preserving traditional recipes and maintaining high product quality makes them a favorite destination for lovers of Greek dairy delicacies.
BEST Stani Dairy Products
Caseificio Artigiana, located in Putignano, Italy, is renowned for its traditional Apulian dairy products, crafted with a deep respect for artisanal methods. Established in 2001, the dairy has grown significantly, now operating in a large facility that reflects its expansion in both the domestic and international markets.
This growth is supported by their commitment to using only the best local milk, ensuring the quality and authenticity of their products such as mozzarella, burrata, and various aged cheeses. The dairy's excellence has been recognized with numerous awards, particularly for their burrata, which has gained international acclaim.
AWARDS
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World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2022
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World Cheese Awards - Gold
2023
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Concours International de Lyon - Gold
2025
BEST Caseificio Artigiana Cheeses
AWARDS
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World Cheese Awards - Gold
2023
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World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2024, 2021
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Great Taste Awards - 2 stars
2021
BEST Caseificio Sepertino Cheeses
AWARDS
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International Cheese Awards - Gold
2022, 2019
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Concours International de Lyon - Gold
2025
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Great Taste Awards - 2 stars
2024
BEST Queso Payoyo Cheeses
AWARDS
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Great Taste Awards - 2 stars
2024, 2023
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Global Cheese Awards - Gold
2024, 2023, 2021, 2019, 2018
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International Cheese Awards - Gold
2024, 2023, 2022
BEST South Caernarfon Creameries Cheeses
Fromagerie Sainte Godeleine - Les Frères Bernard is a family-owned cheese dairy established in 1990, located on the picturesque Côte d’Opale in the Hauts-de-France region of France. With a tradition spanning over three decades, this small yet renowned dairy produces authentic French cheeses using milk sourced from local farms within a 20-kilometer radius.
Their cheeses are crafted using traditional methods, with meticulous attention to every detail in the production process. The assortment includes a wide range of cheeses with diverse flavors and textures, from mild and creamy to more intense and aromatic varieties.
BEST Fromagerie les Frères Bernard Cheeses
St Helen's Farm, based in York, specializes in producing goat milk products including milk, yogurt, cheese, and ice cream. They focus on using goats' milk as a digestible alternative to cow's milk, catering to customers with specific dairy preferences.
The farm prides itself on its comprehensive approach to animal welfare and sustainability in farming practices.
AWARDS
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Global Cheese Awards - Gold
2023
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Great Taste Awards - 3 stars
2024
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International Cheese Awards - Gold
2024, 2023, 2019
BEST St Helen's Farm Cheeses
AWARDS
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International Cheese Awards - Gold
2024, 2023, 2022, 2019
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Great Taste Awards - 2 stars
2022, 2021
BEST Delamere Dairy Cheeses
AWARDS
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Global Cheese Awards - Gold
2023, 2019, 2018
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International Cheese Awards - Gold
2024
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Global Cheese Awards - Best
2019, 2018
BEST Coombe Castle International Cheeses
Best European Dairy Products
Stani 1931 Traditional Greek Yogurt is one of the most renowned and authentic products of this dairy confectionery. It is made from high-quality cow’s and sheep’s milk, using traditional methods that are part of Greece’s cultural heritage. Known for its rich, thick, and creamy texture, as well as its mildly tangy flavor, this yogurt stands out from other varieties.
It is crafted with natural ingredients, free from additives and preservatives, and prepared according to traditional Greek recipes passed down through generations. This yogurt has earned prestigious recognition, including a gold medal at the International Food Exhibition in Thessaloniki.
Daylesford Organic Farm produces a product called Organic Milk Kefir. It is a fermented dairy beverage known for its rich probiotic content, beneficial for gut health. The kefir is made from organic cow's milk sourced from the farm's own grass-fed cows.
The fermentation process involves adding a combination of bacteria and yeast cultures to the milk, resulting in a tangy and slightly effervescent drink.
AWARDS
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International Cheese Awards - Gold
2024, 2023, 2022
Crema de Queso de Cabra is a gourmet product crafted by Queso Payoyo. It combines the rich, tangy flavors of Payoya goat's milk cheese, which is known for its unique creaminess, with the sharpness of blue cheese. This creates a balanced and luxurious spread that is highly versatile in culinary applications, ranging from simple bread spreads to more elaborate recipes.
The Payoya goat's milk cheese is made from the milk of the Payoya goat, a breed indigenous to the Andalusian region in Spain, renowned for its high-quality milk.
AWARDS
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International Cheese Awards - Gold
2022, 2019
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Concours International de Lyon - Gold
2025
AWARDS
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Italian Cheese Awards - ICA
2019, 2017
AWARDS
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Concours International de Lyon - Gold
2025
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Great Taste Awards - 3 stars
2024
Delicate & Smooth Crème Fraiche produced by Green Pastures (Donegal) is a product available at Dunnes Stores. This crème fraiche is known for its rich and creamy texture, which makes it a versatile ingredient suitable for both sweet and savory dishes.
It is frequently used in cooking, baking, and as a topping for desserts or fruits. Green Pastures, based in Donegal, emphasizes the use of high-quality dairy to ensure a consistent and luxurious product.
AWARDS
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Great Taste Awards - 3 stars
2022
Hollis Mead Organic Salted Butter is produced by Hollis Mead Organic Dairy, a farm that prides itself on creating high-quality dairy products through sustainable and organic farming practices. This butter is crafted using milk from cows that graze on rich, organic pastures, ensuring a natural and robust flavor.
It is salted, which enhances its taste and extends its shelf life. The butter is known for its creamy texture and rich color, attributes that arise from the high-quality organic milk used in its production. Hollis Mead's focus on animal welfare and environmental sustainability further contributes to the premium quality and ethical appeal of their products.
AWARDS
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Great Taste Awards - 3 stars
2021
ManiLife Deep Roast Smooth Peanut Butter is a product made by ManiLife LTD. This peanut butter is known for its intensely roasted flavor, which gives it a distinctive and rich taste. Produced using high-quality peanuts, the spread is crafted to ensure a smooth, creamy consistency.
It is popular among consumers who appreciate a deep, robust flavor profile in their peanut butter.
AWARDS
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Great Taste Awards - 3 stars
2022
ManiLife Rich Cocoa Smooth Peanut Butter is a product crafted by ManiLife LTD. This particular variety features a smooth texture complemented by the rich flavor of cocoa, providing a unique twist on traditional peanut butter. It is made using high-quality peanuts to ensure optimal taste and nutritional value.
ManiLife LTD is known for their commitment to quality and innovation in their range of nut butters.
AWARDS
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Great Taste Awards - 3 stars
2022
AWARDS
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Great Taste Awards - 3 stars
2021
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TasteAtlas food rankings are based on the ratings of the TasteAtlas audience, with a series of mechanisms that recognize real users and that ignore bot, nationalist or local patriotic ratings, and give additional value to the ratings of users that the system recognizes as knowledgeable. For the “Top 100 European Dairy Products” list until February 19, 2025, 2,045 ratings were recorded, of which 1,435 were recognized by the system as legitimate. TasteAtlas Rankings should not be seen as the final global conclusion about food. Their purpose is to promote excellent local foods, instill pride in traditional dishes, and arouse curiosity about dishes you haven’t tried.