Terroir Vertentes Cheese Tour

Embark on a journey through artisanal Minas cheese, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity

Discover the secrets of Queijo Minas Artesanal, meet local farmers, and indulge in the authentic flavors of Campo das Vertentes.

Tiradentes is a charming town. With its cobblestone streets, majestic churches, and colonial mansions full of history, this little gem in Minas Gerais is an invitation to explore Brazil’s colonial past. Beyond its irresistible charm, the town has a relaxed rhythm, perfect for those who want to savor every detail at a leisurely pace.

And if there’s one thing that pairs perfectly with Tiradentes, it’s the rich flavor of Queijo Minas Artesanal! This gastronomic treasure goes far beyond taste—it represents history, culture, and dedication. Joining the Terroir Vertentes Cheese Tour is an opportunity to get up close with the farmers who keep this tradition alive, learn about the production techniques, and, of course, savor incredible cheeses from Campo das Vertentes. A true immersion into Minas flavors, with that warm hospitality only Minas can offer!

QUEIJO MINAS ARTESANAL

If there’s something that defines Minas Gerais’ identity—besides the mountains and the warm hospitality of its people—it’s cheese. Queijo Minas Artesanal (QMA) is more than just food; it’s a symbol of tradition and an intangible heritage of Brazil since 2008. In 2024, this gastronomic gem gained worldwide recognition when UNESCO declared the “Traditional Cheese-Making Methods of Queijo Minas Artesanal” an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This honor highlights the importance of this centuries-old tradition, passed down through generations, preserving the essence of Minas culture.

Made from raw milk and natural rennet, Queijo Minas Artesanal is crafted using techniques dating back to the 18th century when Portuguese colonizers brought their cheese-making knowledge to the Minas mountains. Since then, each region of Minas has developed its own unique characteristics, influenced by climate, soil, and the lifestyle of local producers. The result? A cheese with a soft texture, slightly tangy flavor, and a golden rind, with aromas and flavors that vary depending on the terroir.

CAMPO DAS VERTENTES

The Tiradentes and Campo das Vertentes region is one of the key hubs for Queijo Minas Artesanal production. The local terroir gives the cheese unique characteristics, such as a buttery touch and a balanced aging process that enhances its complexity of flavors. In addition to the traditional Queijo Minas, this region excels in producing fine cheeses made from cow, goat, and buffalo milk, many of which have won national and international awards.

More than just a gastronomic product, cheese is a way of life in Minas Gerais. Family-run farms preserve artisanal production methods, passed down from generation to generation, keeping Minas’ cheese-making culture alive. Every bite of this cheese carries a piece of history, hard work, and the dedication of local farmers.

A SENSORY AND CULTURAL EXPERIENCE

For those looking to dive into this flavorful world, the Terroir Vertentes Cheese Tour is the perfect choice. The tour starts at 10 a.m. and lasts approximately 7 hours, offering visitors a deep immersion in Minas Gerais’ rich traditions.

The experience begins at a historic farm, where you’ll witness the entire cheese-making process—from milking the cows to the aging of cheeses on wooden shelves. Local producers share their secrets and ancestral techniques, revealing how every detail influences the cheese’s taste and texture.

And of course, the best part: the tasting! You’ll sample a variety of cheeses, each with its own unique identity, paired with artisanal cachaças, traditional Minas sweets, and specialty coffees. This experience is an invitation to awaken your senses and discover new flavor combinations.

Beyond the gastronomy, the tour also offers a deeper connection with nature and rural life. Stroll along scenic trails, visit pastures where cattle are raised sustainably, and, for the more curious, even take part in milking the cows—an authentic and immersive experience.

A JOURNEY THROUGH THE FLAVORS OF MINAS

The Artisanal Cheese Tour is more than just a gastronomic experience—it’s a dive into Minas Gerais’ culture, the simplicity of the countryside, and the richness of a tradition spanning centuries. Whether you’re a cheese enthusiast or simply looking for a unique experience, this tour promises unforgettable moments and, of course, remarkable flavors. After all, in Minas, cheese is history, affection, and identity!

HOW TO GET THERE

• Belo Horizonte/Confins International Airport – Tancredo Neves
• By bus: Viação Sandra operates the Belo Horizonte–São João del Rei route, and Viação Presidente operates the São João del Rei–Tiradentes route.
• By car: From Belo Horizonte, drive 85 km on BR-040 until it meets BR-383, just past Congonhas. Then, continue for another 105 km to Tiradentes.