Raw Cow. Verona, Veneto.
Bearing strong resemblance to Parmigiano-Reggiano, Grana Padano is made throughout the Po River Valley in northeastern Italy. Parmigiano-Reggiano's cousin is a firm, waxen and deeply straw-colored rind, protecting a fragrant, dry, flaking paste with sweet, nutty flavor that is never tangy. Grana means 'grain' and, as the name implies, the cheese has a fine granular quality with a sweet, nutty little bite. If you're adding it to your cheese plate, try pairing with a Barolo, or an amber ale.