San Simón da Costa is a DOP cheese from Galicia in northwestern Spain, immediately recognisable by its glossy, burnished pear shape. The distinctive form and colour come from smoking the wheels over birch wood, a practice that dates back centuries in the region.

Flavor Profile

The paste is firm, supple, and creamy pale yellow. The flavor is mild and buttery with a clean milky sweetness, overlaid with a gentle woody smokiness from the birch. The smoke is present throughout but restrained, complementing rather than dominating. The texture is smooth and slices cleanly.

How to Serve

Serve at room temperature on a board, where the polished conical shape draws attention. It melts well and adds a subtle smoke note to grilled sandwiches, empanadas, and baked dishes. In Galicia it is often served simply with bread and wine.

Pairing Suggestions

Pair with a Galician Albariño, a Mencía, or a dry cider. Serve with quince paste, Marcona almonds, cured chorizo, and crusty bread.

Storage

Wrap in wax paper and store in the refrigerator away from delicate cheeses, since the smoke aroma transfers. Keeps three to four weeks.