MARNEA – A Taste of Marling’s Cheese Tradition
The Return of a South Tyrolean Specialty
"Marnea" is more than just a cheese – it’s a piece of Marling’s history, revived with passion and innovation. Inspired by a once-beloved cheese specialty, this creation brings together tradition and modern craftsmanship.
Bringing a Classic Back to Life
For those who remember it, the taste of Marling’s cheese was truly unique. A semi-hard cheese similar to Tilsiter, it was highly valued for its quality. However, when the Marling dairy cooperative closed in 1971, this local specialty gradually disappeared. That was until three students from the Kaiserhof Hospitality School in Merano decided to bring it back as part of their final project.
Where Tradition Meets Innovation
Benjamin Hofer, Manuel Mussak, and Manuel Schroffenegger took on the challenge of reinterpreting this historic cheese. With support from the Marling Tourism Association and the WineCulture Marling, they developed "Marnea," a cheese with excellent slicing and melting properties, featuring an edible rind. For an exquisite pairing, it is served with a mustard preserve made from fine Marling Pinot Noir – a refined treat for true gourmets.
Expert Knowledge for a New Generation
The students had the privilege of working with Josef Gruber, the former cheesemaker who had crafted Marling’s cheese for decades. His expertise and insights played a crucial role in perfecting the production of "Marnea," now crafted in collaboration with the Latteria Sociale di Castelfondo.
A Project with Passion and Heritage
Following the philosophy of the Kaiserhof School – "Innovation from Tradition" – the students not only wanted to revive a forgotten product but also enhance it with a modern twist by pairing it with Pinot Noir mustard.
A Cheese Tradition with a Future
What started as a necessity – milk processing at Marling’s first private dairy in 1890 and later in the cooperative from 1931 – has now become an exceptional culinary experience. "Marnea" bridges the past and present, inviting cheese lovers to discover an authentic taste of South Tyrol.
A Delight for the Senses
Enjoyed on its own or paired with the fruity-spicy mustard, Marling’s cheese captivates with its rich flavor and unique texture. A must-try for anyone passionate about South Tyrolean culinary culture!
Starting in April, the cheese will be available at the Latteria Castelfondo sales point in Lana and at the Center Market in the heart of Marling.