Sheep Milk Cheese

Sheep milk products are highly sought after by those who are unable to tolerate traditional cow milk foods. Sufferers of conditions such as eczema, asthma and poor digestion may find that their symptoms are lessened when switching from cow to sheep milk.

Sheep milk is much easier to digest than traditional cow milk due to its high levels of casein protein – three times more than is found in cow milk. And even for those who are lactose intolerant, hard sheep cheeses can still be an option as much of the sheep milk lactose is discarded with the whey.

Sheep milk products are a good option for those watching their cholesterol or are keen to ensure a high level of nutrition as it contains much higher levels of Vitamins A, B, and E, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium and short-chain fatty acids/triglycerides than found in goat or cow milk. In addition, sheep milk boasts high levels of magnesium, zinc,  thiamin, riboflavin, vitamins B6 and B12, vitamin D, linoleic acids and all 10 of the essential amino acids.

While sheep milk does have a higher fat content than cow or goat milk, the smaller globules means it is more easily digested and is much lower in saturated fats than other milks. Please consult your doctor before making changes to your diet.

Our sheep milk cheeses include:

Brinza Feta  a “fresh”  European styled feta  made the traditional way to produce  a creamy cheese, smooth in texture with a distinctive tang. The sweet, delicate sheep milk flavours of this feta make it a great inclusion on a cheeseboard, as well as a lovely addition to salads, frittatas or quiche.

Wine match:
Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc | A young NZ style with fresh lemon/ lime characteristics and a hint of sweetness.

Balfour is our signature cheese that consistently wins medals at the Champions of Cheese awards. 
Characterised by the sweet flavour of Southland sheep milk, with nutty overtones and a beautifully grainy texture. The Balfour is similar to a young Italian Pecorino style and will shine on a cheese board selection but will enhance any dish, especially when shaved on to risottos, salads and pastas.


Wine match:
Unoaked Chardonnay or Pinot Noir | The vanilla and spice flavours will accompany the sweetness and the lower tannins will accommodate the fine grainy texture.