Last Updated on October 4, 2022 by Lauren Beck
If you’re looking for a top-quality Parmigiano Reggiano, you can expect to pay around $900 per 72-pound wheel. Of course, the price can vary depending on the producer and where you purchase it from. But generally speaking, a good Parmigiano Reggiano will set you back about $900.
So, if you’re looking to add some of this world-renowned cheese to your next dish, be prepared to spend a bit of money. But trust us, it’s worth it!
What is Parmigiano Reggiano?
Parmigiano Reggiano is a hard, granular cheese that’s made from raw cow’s milk. It originated in the Parma and Reggio Emilia regions of Italy and has been produced there for centuries. Parmigiano Reggiano is often referred to as the “King of Cheeses” due to its exceptional quality and flavor.
Parmigiano Reggiano is made using a traditional method that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. The cheese is made from raw cow’s milk, rennet, and salt. Once the cheese is made, it is aged for a minimum of 12 months (and up to 36 months). During this time, the cheese is regularly checked to ensure that it meets the rigorous standards set by the Parmigiano Reggiano Consortium.
Parmigiano Reggiano has a distinct flavor that is both nutty and salty. It also has a slightly crumbly texture. When used in cooking, Parmigiano Reggiano can add a delicious depth of flavor to a dish.
How long will a wheel of Parmigiano Reggiano last?
A wheel of Parmigiano Reggiano will last for about 12 months. After that, the flavor of the cheese will start to decline. So, if you’re looking to get the most out of your cheese, be sure to use it within a year of purchasing it.
How do you store Parmigiano Reggiano?
Here are some tips for storing Parmigiano Reggiano:
- Wrap the cheese in parchment paper or wax paper.
- Place the wrapped cheese in a plastic bag or container.
- Store the cheese in the refrigerator.
- Be sure to use the cheese within 2-3 weeks for best results.
When stored properly, Parmigiano Reggiano will last for 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator.
How many pounds is a wheel of Parmigiano Reggiano?

A wheel of Parmigiano Reggiano weighs 70-90 pounds.
Is Costco Parmigiano Reggiano real?
There has been some debate as to whether or not Costco’s Parmigiano Reggiano is the real deal. The short answer is: yes, it is real Parmigiano Reggiano. However, it is important to note that the cheese sold at Costco is produced in Italy, whereas true Parmigiano Reggiano can only be made in the Parma and Reggio Emilia regions of Italy.
So, while Costco’s Parmigiano Reggiano is authentic, it is not technically true Parmigiano Reggiano. Nevertheless, it is still a delicious cheese that would make a great addition to any dish.
What is the most expensive wheel of cheese?
The most expensive wheel of cheese on record was sold at auction for $17,000. The cheese, known as “Pule,” is a Serbian cheese made from the milk of donkeys.
While $17,000 may seem like a lot of money for a piece of cheese, it’s important to keep in mind that Pule is a rare cheese that is produced in very small quantities. So, while it may be expensive, it’s also quite exclusive.
Is there a difference between Parmesan and Parmigiano-Reggiano?
Yes, there is a difference between Parmesan and Parmigiano-Reggiano. While both are hard, granular cheeses made from cow’s milk, Parmesan is produced in various regions around the world. Parmigiano-Reggiano, on the other hand, can only be made in the Parma and Reggio Emilia regions of Italy [1].
So, while Parmesan and Parmigiano-Reggiano may be similar, they are not the same cheese. Parmigiano-Reggiano is a protected designation of origin (PDO) cheese, which means that it can only be made in a specific region using traditional methods. Parmesan, on the other hand, is not a PDO cheese and can be produced anywhere in the world.
How can you tell if Parmigiano Reggiano is real?
There are a few ways to tell if Parmigiano Reggiano is real:
- Check the rind of the cheese. If it bears the “Parmigiano-Reggiano” name, then it’s the real deal.
- Take a close look at the texture of the cheese. Real Parmigiano Reggiano should have a slightly crumbly texture.
- Give the cheese a smell. Authentic Parmigiano Reggiano should have a nutty, salty aroma.
If you’re still not sure, you can always consult the Parmigiano Reggiano Consortium’s website for more information.
Conclusion
So there you have it! Everything you need to know about Parmigiano Reggiano. This delicious cheese is a great addition to any dish, and it’s sure to please even the most discerning palate. So, next time you’re in the mood for something cheesy, be sure to give Parmigiano Reggiano a try. You won’t be disappointed.
Reference:
- https://www.thespruceeats.com/parmesan-vs-parmigiano-591198
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