Valley Ford Estero Gold Reserve is an extra-aged, handmade raw cow's milk cheese produced at Valley Ford Cheese & Creamery in Marin and Sonoma Counties, California. Crafted in the tradition of Swiss-Italian alpine cheeses such as Asiago and Montasio, it is made from Jersey cow's milk and aged a minimum of 16 to 18 months — far longer than the standard Estero Gold, which ages only about 6 months. Sold by the pound in individually wrapped pieces of approximately 0.75 lb each.

The extended aging gives this cheese a hard, crumbly, and crystalline texture. Its flavor is complex and intense, with sweet notes of fruit and caramel alongside deeper savory characteristics reminiscent of Parmigiano-Reggiano. Distinctive crystalline deposits — amino acid formations common in well-aged high-protein cheeses — provide a satisfying crunch. The natural rind and deep golden-yellow interior make it a striking addition to any cheese board.

Estero Gold Reserve excels as a finishing or grating cheese, ideal over pasta or enjoyed as part of a wine and cheese pairing alongside bold red wines.

Nutrition per serving (1 oz / 28g): 120 calories, 9g total fat (5g saturated fat, 0g trans fat), less than 5mg cholesterol, 90mg sodium, 0g total carbohydrate (0g dietary fiber, 0g total sugars), 9g protein. Provides 15% DV Calcium and 6% DV Vitamin A. Ingredients: Raw cow's milk, salt, cultures, rennet. Allergens: Contains milk.