Mozzarella cheese was first made in Italy near Naples from the rich milk of water buffaloes.

This Italian cheese is a fresh, drawn-curd cheese made from whole buffalo's milk. It is porcelain-white in color, spherical in shape with a very thin glossy edible rind. Mozzarella di Bufala has a springy texture and a pleasant sour taste with a faint mossy smell, reminiscent fo the humid grazing fields of Southern Italy.

Compliments: This cheese goes well as an addition for texture rather than specific taste. Try it with fresh tomatoes and basil, or if you prefer something less light, prepare a delicious "mozzarella in carozza" (mozzarella in a carriage) or "crostini" (toasted bread) with mozzarella and anchovies.

Appropriate wines: Great with a fruity California Pinot Noir or a lively Italian Pinot Grigio.