Posa Cheese
Traditional Dishes of Kos
Posa Cheese – Kos' Unique Wine-Infused Delight
When it comes to Greek cheeses, most people think of feta, graviera, or mizithra. However, the island of Kos is home to a rare and distinctive cheese that sets itself apart: Posa Cheese, also known as wine cheese. This aged, red-wine-infused delicacy carries a bold flavor and an unmistakable aroma, making it one of the island’s most treasured gastronomic secrets.
What is Posa Cheese?
📍 A Unique Greek Cheese Aged in Wine
Posa Cheese is a hard, semi-aged cheese that undergoes a distinctive aging process in local red wine, giving it:
✔ A deep purple or reddish hue on the outer rind.
✔ A firm, crumbly texture, similar to a dry-aged cheese.
✔ A bold, tangy, and slightly salty flavor with rich wine-infused notes.
Unlike most Greek cheeses, which are aged in brine or air-dried, Posa Cheese develops its character by absorbing the flavors of local Kos wine, resulting in a cheese that blends dairy craftsmanship with winemaking tradition.
💡 Tip: The longer Posa Cheese ages in wine, the deeper its color, aroma, and intensity of flavor!
The History and Origins of Posa Cheese
📍 A Tradition Rooted in Necessity and Innovation
Posa Cheese’s origins date back centuries, when Kos’ cheesemakers and winemakers collaborated to create a cheese that could be preserved for longer periods. The process of submerging cheese in wine helped prevent spoilage, while also infusing it with the rich tannins and aromas of red wine.
✔ Originally, farmers used red wine as a natural preservative, before refrigeration was available.
✔ Over time, this preservation technique transformed into a signature island delicacy.
✔ Today, Posa Cheese remains one of Kos’ most prized dairy products, often found in local tavernas, wineries, and traditional markets.
💡 Tip: Some families on Kos still use centuries-old methods to create Posa Cheese, making each wheel a piece of living history.
How Posa Cheese is Made – The Traditional Method
📍 Crafting This Unique Kos Specialty
The production of Posa Cheese follows a traditional artisanal process, passed down through generations:
Step 1: Fresh Cheese Preparation
✔ Sheep or goat’s milk is used as the base ingredient.
✔ The milk is heated and curdled using natural rennet.
✔ The curds are pressed into molds, forming the base of the cheese.
Step 2: Initial Aging Phase
✔ The cheese is left to air-dry and age naturally for a few weeks.
✔ This helps develop a firm texture, preparing it for wine aging.
Step 3: Submersion in Red Wine
✔ The cheese wheels are then completely submerged in local Kos red wine.
✔ They remain soaked for several weeks or even months, absorbing the deep wine flavors.
✔ During this period, the cheese develops its signature reddish-purple rind.
Step 4: Final Aging and Drying
✔ After wine aging, the cheese is dried and stored in cool conditions.
✔ The final product is firm, slightly crumbly, and rich in both dairy and wine flavors.
💡 Tip: The best Posa Cheese is aged for at least 3 months, but longer aging results in deeper flavors and a more complex character.
Why Posa Cheese is a Must-Try in Kos
✔ It’s one of Greece’s most unique cheeses, exclusive to Kos.
✔ Its bold, wine-infused taste makes it a standout in Greek cuisine.
✔ It pairs exceptionally well with local wines, honey, and rustic bread.
💡 Tip: If you’re visiting Kos, don’t leave without trying Posa Cheese at a traditional taverna!
🏨 Want to explore Kos’ best local foods? Stay at Koasis Boutique Apartments and experience the island’s rich culinary traditions firsthand!
Dates available at MayWhere to Taste the Best Posa Cheese in Kos
If you’re visiting Kos, tasting Posa Cheese is a must for any food lover. This wine-infused delicacy is not widely found outside the island, making it a true Kos specialty. But where can you find the best, most authentic Posa Cheese?
In this section, we’ll explore:
✔ The best local tavernas and restaurants serving Posa Cheese
✔ Where to buy fresh Posa Cheese to take home
✔ How to find and order it like a local
The Best Tavernas and Restaurants Serving Posa Cheese
📍 Where to Enjoy This Unique Cheese in Kos
Because Posa Cheese is a local delicacy, it is best enjoyed at traditional tavernas, wineries, and family-run restaurants. Here are some top spots on the island where you can find authentic, freshly aged Posa Cheese:
1️⃣ Taverna Oromedon – Zia Village
✔ Located in the scenic mountain village of Zia, this taverna specializes in traditional Kos cuisine.
✔ Their Posa Cheese is served in thin slices, paired with local honey and nuts for a perfect balance of flavors.
✔ Enjoy it with a glass of Kos’ finest red wine while watching the stunning sunset views over the island.
💡 Tip: Zia Village is known for its artisanal food culture—perfect for cheese lovers!
2️⃣ Ampeli Taverna – Kos Countryside
✔ This charming, family-run taverna sits among vineyards and olive groves, offering an authentic farm-to-table experience.
✔ Their Posa Cheese platter is paired with homemade bread, olives, and figs, showcasing the best of local produce.
✔ The relaxed setting allows you to experience the real countryside flavors of Kos.
💡 Tip: This is a great stop after visiting a local winery, as it offers wine-and-cheese pairing menus!
3️⃣ Taverna Avli – Kos Town
✔ A traditional taverna hidden in Kos Town’s Old Market, specializing in local cheeses and meze-style dining.
✔ Serves grilled Posa Cheese with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and oregano—a must-try variation!
✔ The cozy, rustic atmosphere makes it a perfect place for an authentic Greek dining experience.
💡 Tip: If you’re in Kos Town, this is the easiest place to try Posa Cheese without leaving the city center!
Where to Buy Fresh Posa Cheese in Kos
📍 Take Home a Piece of Kos’ Culinary Heritage
Want to bring authentic Posa Cheese home? Here’s where to buy it:
1️⃣ Kos Farmers’ Market – Kos Town
✔ A vibrant local market where farmers and cheesemakers sell handmade dairy products.
✔ Offers freshly aged Posa Cheese, often wrapped in wax paper for preservation.
✔ You can sample different aging levels, from lightly infused to deeply wine-soaked versions.
💡 Tip: Arrive early in the morning for the freshest selections!
2️⃣ Local Cheesemakers & Family Farms
✔ Several small-scale cheesemakers in Kos produce Posa Cheese using traditional techniques.
✔ Some offer farm tours, where you can see the aging process and buy cheese directly from the source.
✔ You may also find other Kos specialties, like fresh goat cheese and olive oil.
💡 Tip: Ask locals for recommendations on the best small producers—some of the best cheese isn’t sold in stores!
3️⃣ Select Wineries & Gourmet Shops
✔ Many local wineries in Kos also sell Posa Cheese, as it pairs perfectly with red wines.
✔ Gourmet food shops in Kos Town and Kardamena offer vacuum-sealed portions, ideal for travel.
💡 Tip: If you’re planning to bring cheese home, ask for it to be vacuum-packed to ensure freshness!
How to Order & Enjoy Posa Cheese Like a Local
📍 Tips for Getting the Best Experience
When ordering Posa Cheese at a restaurant, keep these pro tips in mind:
✔ Look for it on the appetizer (meze) menu – It’s often served as a starter or paired with wine.
✔ Try it grilled or pan-seared – Some tavernas offer a hot version, which intensifies the cheese’s flavors.
✔ Ask for a wine pairing recommendation – Kos red wines pair beautifully with Posa Cheese.
💡 Tip: If you don’t see Posa Cheese on the menu, ask the staff—many restaurants have off-menu local specialties!
Why Trying Posa Cheese in Kos is an Unforgettable Experience
✔ It’s one of Greece’s rarest cheeses, found only in Kos.
✔ It’s an incredible fusion of dairy and winemaking traditions.
✔ It’s perfect for wine and cheese lovers looking for something unique.
💡 Tip: If you love artisanal cheeses, Posa Cheese is a bucket-list-worthy tasting experience!
🏨 Looking for an authentic Kos food experience? Stay at Koasis Boutique Apartments and enjoy easy access to the island’s best tavernas and local food markets!
Dates available at MayPerfect Pairings – The Best Wines, Honey, and Dishes for Posa Cheese
Posa Cheese is a one-of-a-kind delicacy, and pairing it with the right wines, accompaniments, and dishes can elevate its flavors. Whether you're enjoying it as an appetizer, part of a cheese platter, or in a gourmet dish, choosing the right pairing can enhance its unique, wine-infused character.
In this section, we’ll explore:
✔ The best wines to pair with Posa Cheese
✔ Why honey and fruit complement its flavors
✔ How to use Posa Cheese in traditional Greek dishes
Best Wine Pairings for Posa Cheese
📍 Matching the Boldness of Wine-Aged Cheese with the Perfect Greek Wines
Since Posa Cheese is aged in red wine, it naturally pairs best with Greek wines that either match its richness or contrast its intensity.
1️⃣ Kos Local Red Wines
✔ The same type of red wine used in aging Posa Cheese creates a perfect complementary pairing.
✔ Try a full-bodied, tannic red wine from a local Kos winery.
✔ Look for wines made from Mandilaria, Mavrotragano, or Avgoustiatis grapes.
💡 Tip: If you’re tasting Posa Cheese at a winery, ask the winemaker which bottle pairs best—they know their flavors best!
2️⃣ Agiorgitiko – Aged Greek Red Wine
✔ A soft yet structured red wine, known for its deep fruitiness and mild spice.
✔ The dark berry notes complement the tangy saltiness of Posa Cheese.
✔ Aged versions with oak-barrel aging add extra depth to the pairing.
💡 Tip: If you’re looking for a wine-forward experience, Agiorgitiko is a fantastic Greek red for cheese lovers.
3️⃣ Assyrtiko – A Contrasting White Wine Pairing
✔ A crisp, high-acidity white wine from Santorini, known for its minerality and citrus notes.
✔ Contrasts Posa Cheese’s richness, offering a refreshing balance.
✔ A great option for those who prefer white wines over reds.
💡 Tip: If you like cheese platters with a variety of flavors, pairing Assyrtiko with Posa Cheese adds a refreshing contrast.
Why Honey and Fruit Pair Perfectly with Posa Cheese
📍 Balancing Saltiness with Sweetness
Since Posa Cheese has a bold, salty, and slightly tangy taste, sweet and fruity accompaniments bring out its complexity.
✔ Local Greek honey – Adds floral and earthy depth, highlighting the wine-infused flavors.
✔ Fresh figs or dried apricots – Their natural sweetness balances the tanginess of Posa Cheese.
✔ Roasted almonds or walnuts – Enhance the nutty, aged notes of the cheese.
✔ Olive tapenade or fig jam – A rich, sweet-savory spread that complements the wine undertones.
💡 Tip: If ordering Posa Cheese at a taverna, ask if they serve it with honey or nuts—it’s a local favorite!
Greek Dishes That Feature Posa Cheese
📍 How Posa Cheese is Used in Traditional Recipes
Posa Cheese isn’t just eaten on its own—it also makes an amazing ingredient in traditional Greek recipes. Here’s how it’s used in Kos cuisine:
1️⃣ Grilled Posa Cheese with Olive Oil & Herbs
✔ Thick slices of Posa Cheese are grilled until slightly melted.
✔ Drizzled with extra virgin olive oil, oregano, and thyme.
✔ Served as a warm appetizer with fresh bread.
💡 Tip: This dish is best with a glass of dry red wine—the warmth brings out the cheese’s depth.
2️⃣ Posa Cheese Saganaki
✔ A crispy, pan-fried version of Posa Cheese, similar to the famous Greek saganaki dish.
✔ Fried until golden brown and served with a squeeze of lemon juice.
✔ The crunchy crust contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.
💡 Tip: If you love fried cheese appetizers, this is a must-try dish in Kos tavernas!
3️⃣ Posa Cheese & Fig Salad
✔ A refreshing Mediterranean-style salad featuring:
✔ Arugula, fresh figs, walnuts, and balsamic glaze.
✔ Crumbled Posa Cheese adds a salty, umami depth.
💡 Tip: If you want a lighter way to enjoy Posa Cheese, this salad makes an excellent lunch option.
Why Pairing Posa Cheese with the Right Foods Makes All the Difference
✔ Wine-aged cheese has bold flavors, so careful pairing enhances its richness.
✔ Sweet and nutty accompaniments create a perfect balance of flavors.
✔ Greek wines and honey elevate the tasting experience to a gourmet level.
💡 Tip: If you really want to appreciate Posa Cheese, try it with a variety of pairings—it’s a flavor journey!
🏨 Want to experience the best Greek food pairings? Stay at Koasis Boutique Apartments and enjoy Kos' rich food and wine culture right at your doorstep!
Dates available at MayHow to Use Posa Cheese in Cooking – Recipes and Serving Ideas
Posa Cheese is not just a cheese to be enjoyed on its own—it’s a versatile ingredient that can add a rich, bold flavor to a variety of Greek and Mediterranean dishes. Its wine-infused depth and slightly crumbly texture make it ideal for both traditional recipes and modern gourmet dishes.
Easy Ways to Incorporate Posa Cheese into Your Meals
📍 Enhancing Everyday Dishes with Kos’ Signature Cheese
Even if you don’t have access to authentic Kos recipes, you can still use Posa Cheese in creative ways to enhance your meals.
✔ Shaved over salads – Adds a rich, umami flavor to fresh greens, nuts, and balsamic dressing.
✔ Melted into pasta – Crumble it over hot pasta dishes for a unique alternative to parmesan.
✔ As a pizza topping – Aged Posa Cheese pairs well with roasted vegetables, caramelized onions, or figs.
✔ On a cheese platter – Serve alongside olives, honey, and nuts for a classic Mediterranean appetizer.
✔ Stuffed in grilled meats – Posa Cheese’s salty, bold flavor complements lamb, pork, or chicken.
💡 Tip: Because Posa Cheese is aged in wine, it has a stronger and saltier profile than fresh cheeses—so a little goes a long way!
Traditional Greek Recipes Featuring Posa Cheese
📍 Classic Dishes from Kos That Highlight Its Wine-Infused Flavor
Kos’ cuisine is known for its simple yet bold flavors, and Posa Cheese plays a role in several traditional recipes:
1️⃣ Posa Cheese and Honey Bruschetta
✔ A simple appetizer made with crusty Greek bread, local honey, and crumbled Posa Cheese.
✔ The combination of sweet honey and salty cheese creates a perfect balance of flavors.
✔ Served with fresh oregano and a drizzle of olive oil for added aroma.
💡 Tip: This dish is best enjoyed with a glass of local Kos white wine!
2️⃣ Posa Cheese Baked with Tomatoes & Olives
✔ A rustic dish where Posa Cheese is baked with cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, and garlic.
✔ The heat softens the cheese slightly, making it perfect for dipping with warm pita bread.
✔ A popular meze option in local tavernas.
💡 Tip: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra layer of spice!
3️⃣ Posa Cheese & Herb-Stuffed Lamb
✔ A rich, traditional Greek dish where lamb is stuffed with crumbled Posa Cheese, rosemary, and thyme.
✔ The wine-infused cheese melts slightly inside the meat, creating a flavorful filling.
✔ Served with roasted potatoes and lemon sauce.
💡 Tip: This dish is often reserved for celebrations and special occasions—but it’s worth trying!
How to Store & Serve Posa Cheese for Maximum Flavor
📍 Preserving Its Unique Taste and Texture
✔ Store in parchment paper – Avoid plastic wrap, as it can trap moisture and affect the flavor.
✔ Keep in a cool, dry place – Posa Cheese does best when stored at cellar temperature (12-15°C).
✔ Slice or crumble just before serving – This keeps the texture and aroma at its peak.
✔ Pair with complementary flavors – Serve with honey, nuts, and fruit for the best experience.
💡 Tip: If your Posa Cheese dries out, rub it with a little olive oil to restore its texture.
Why Cooking with Posa Cheese Elevates Any Dish
✔ Its wine-aging process adds a depth of flavor not found in most cheeses.
✔ It pairs beautifully with traditional Greek ingredients like olive oil, tomatoes, and herbs.
✔ Its bold, salty character enhances both sweet and savory dishes.
💡 Tip: If you’re a cheese lover, experimenting with Posa Cheese in recipes will open up a world of Mediterranean flavors!
🏨 Want to try authentic dishes featuring Posa Cheese? Stay at Koasis Boutique Apartments and experience Kos' vibrant food scene!
Dates available at May