Though the Upper Nitra region is not traditionally known as a sheep-breeding powerhouse, a local farm has consistently ranked among Slovakia's elite cheese producers for several years. (source: Archive of Farma pod Vtáčnikom)
The best sheep cheese products of the year are not coming from Slovakia's renowned Liptov or Orava regions. Instead, the highest accolades at the all-Slovak cheese competition held during Agrokomplex, a prominent agricultural fair in Nitra, went to a sheep farm nestled beneath Vtáčnik Hill near Prievidza.
Though the Upper Nitra region is not traditionally known as a sheep-breeding powerhouse, this farm has consistently ranked among Slovakia's elite cheese producers for several years.
This year, it distinguished itself by securing six awards at the Egon Gyarmathy Memorial.
Best sheep cheese
Farma pod Vtáčnikom first entered the competition in 2017. Notably, in 2018, it earned the coveted title for the best bryndza, Slovakia's cherished sheep cheese.
This year, the farm made a notable impact by presenting eight products across six categories, achieving commendable results in each.
"We secured first place for both matured sheep and cow cheeses, as well as for fresh sheep cheese," said farmer Jana Kováčiková, describing the outcome as both unexpected and extraordinary, underscoring the farm's continued commitment to excellence in cheese production.
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Recipe inspired by Italy
One of the farm's standout offerings is its matured sheep cheese, which boasts a unique formula.
"The recipe was brought to us by a cheesemaker from the Banská Bystrica area who spent 15 years honing his craft in Italy," explained Kováčiková. "The secret to its success lies in his recipe."
The farm's commitment extends beyond just flavour. Every product is handled manually, ensuring that preservatives, chemical additives, and artificial interventions are strictly avoided.
"Our bryndza, for instance, may occasionally have a yellower hue," she noted. "This is simply because it's neither pasteurised nor bleached."
From family farm to tourist attraction
Established nine years ago, Farma pod Vtáčnikom began with a simple vision: to produce wholesome food for the former owner's family. Starting with just a hundred sheep and a modest old farm, the operation has steadily expanded, adding employee accommodation and a shop.
Today, the farm, a popular destination for tourists, cyclists, and families with children, is home to nearly 500 sheep, cattle, and poultry. From spring through autumn, it attracts visitors eager to experience farm life firsthand.
"We wanted to give people, especially children, the chance to see what life on a farm is really like and how their favourite products are made," said the farmer. "People come here not just to relax, but to learn something new."
The farm also offers group tours, which include informative presentations and guided visits.
©My Horná Nitra
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