Savouring Tradition: Floridia Cheese, Thomastown’s Australian-Made Delights
Welcome to Floridia Cheese, a cherished cheese factory nestled in Thomastown, Melbourne. Immerse yourself in the rich tradition of Italian-style cheese crafted by Australian artisans, including our exquisite Fresh Curd Cheese. From the heart of Sicily to the vibrant landscape of Australia, Floridia Cheese brings you a symphony of flavors that echo the essence of generations past.
A Family Legacy
Mauro Montalto: A Cheese-Making Maestro
The story begins with Mauro Montalto, a skilled cheese maker who, along with his wife Carmela, embarked on a journey from Sicily to Australia in 1952. Carrying with them the art of cheese making, the Montalto family became torchbearers of a tradition that would shape the destiny of Floridia Cheese.
Passing Down Tradition
Mauro’s passion for cheese making was not just a skill; it was a legacy. Tomasso and Angela, the next generation, took the reins from Mauro, ensuring the seamless continuity of tradition. Now, the legacy thrives with Tom’s children, marking the third generation of Montalto’s dedicated to the art of cheese making.
From Sicily to Australia: A Culinary Odyssey
Self-Sufficiency and Italian Culture
The Montalto family brought more than cheese-making skills from Sicily; they brought a way of life. Their self-sufficient approach and the essence of Italian culture allowed them to navigate the challenges of a new land. The cheese-making skills, deeply embedded in Floridia’s history, became a cornerstone of their new life in Australia.
The Birth of Traditional Ricotta
A frugal peasant culture and a commitment to reusing leftovers led to the birth of Floridia’s finest Ricotta. Mauro’s ingenuity turned leftover whey, a byproduct of cheese making, into a sweet, smooth, and delightful Ricotta Cheese. This marked the beginning of a culinary journey that would shape the destiny of Floridia Cheese.
A Cheese-Making Odyssey: The Floridia Story Unfolds
Humble Beginnings in the Backyard
Mauro started by making traditional Ricotta over a wood fire in his backyard for his three sons. What began as a family affair expanded to include neighbours, friends, and local grocers. Little did the Montalto family know that these humble beginnings would evolve into one of Australia’s most esteemed cheese manufacturing businesses.
The Floridia Cheese Legacy
In 1955, the growing demand for traditional Italian-style cheese prompted Mauro to purchase a small factory in Bundoora. This marked the establishment of Floridia Cheese, named after Mauro’s birthplace in Sicily. The success was undeniable, leading to a pivotal move in 1998 to a larger commercial site in Thomastown, where Floridia Cheese continues to flourish.
Floridia Cheese Today: A Benchmark of Excellence
Respected Tradition
Floridia Cheese has earned its place as Australia’s most respected traditional Italian cheese manufacturer. It stands as an industry benchmark for consistency and quality in Italian cheese products.
Commitment to Tradition
The success of Floridia Cheese can be attributed to its unwavering commitment to time-honoured methods, a passion derived from a family immersed in cheese-making history, and a determination to manufacture to the highest standards.
A Culinary Symphony
In conclusion, Floridia Cheese invites you to savour tradition in every bite. From the warmth of Sicilian roots to the vibrant Australian landscape, each cheese reflects a legacy of craftsmanship and passion. Join us in celebrating the culinary symphony crafted by generations — a tradition that continues to define Floridia Cheese in Thomastown, Melbourne.
