Manchego is produced in the La Mancha region of central Spain and carries DOP (Denominación de Origen Protegida) status, meaning it must be made from the milk of Manchega sheep and aged in the designated region. It is one of Spain's most exported cheeses, documented in Spanish culture as far back as the Bronze Age, with references appearing even in Cervantes's Don Quixote. Curado (aged 3-6 months) is the most common form served in tapas bars, paired classically with membrillo — a firm quince paste — a combination that has defined the Spanish cheese course for generations.