Autum 2026 | New training pathway by MONS Formation & Esneki Dairy Centre
Our Dairy Centre ESNEKI, as the MONS Formation Delegated Centre for Spanish-speaking countries, continues to promote knowledge transfer and professional development within the cheese sector through an exclusive training program developed in collaboration with one of the international benchmarks in cheese affinage and commercialization: MONS Formation and MONS Fromager Affineur.
For Autumn 2026, we are pleased to present a training pathway designed for cheese producers, affineurs, ripening managers, cheesemakers, distributors, and specialty retail professionals who wish to acquire or enhance key cheese-related skills.
A THREE-STAGE TRAINING PATHWAY
1️⃣ Cheese Affinage Fundamentals – Level 1
Introductory in-person training
The gateway to the world of professional cheese affinage.
This course covers the technical foundations of affinage: microbiology, environmental parameters, ripening techniques, sensory analysis, defect identification, and assessment of the optimal consumption stage of cheeses.
In addition, this training serves as the recommended prerequisite for Level 2, providing the knowledge required to fully benefit from the advanced MONS Formation experience.
The training will be delivered by Malen Sarasua, accredited trainer of MONS Formation and member of the MONS Formation through ESNEKI Dairy Centre, the delegated centre for Spanish-speaking countries. With extensive experience in the dairy and cheese sector, she acts as a key link between MONS Formation and Spanish-speaking professionals, facilitating access to the renowned MONS methodology and expertise in cheese affinage.
Duration: 2 days
Location: ESNEKI Dairy Centre (Markina-Xemein, Bizkaia)
2️⃣ MONS EXPERIENCE – Advanced Fundamentals of Cheese Affinage (Level 2)
Immersive training in France
A unique professional experience at the facilities of MONS Formation and MONS Fromager Affineur.
Participants will work directly on real affinage cases, gaining deeper expertise in ripening environments, applied microbiology, rind management, defect resolution, advanced sensory analysis, and decision-making throughout the ripening process. The training includes practical workshops alongside the MONS affineur team and technical visits to landmark affinage facilities.
This training is intended for professionals with prior experience or those who have completed the “Cheese Affinage Fundamentals – Level 1” course.
The program will be led by Laurent Mons, one of the most respected figures in the international cheese world. As Director of MONS Formation and member of the leadership team of MONS Fromager Affineur and a leading ambassador for cheese culture and affinage expertise, Laurent Mons brings together decades of practical experience, technical excellence, and a unique vision of cheese ripening and quality. His involvement offers participants direct access to the philosophy and know-how that have made MONS an international benchmark.
The coordination, translation, and support of the group throughout the training will be handled by Malen Sarasua.
Duration: 3 days
Location: Mons Fromager Affineur (Saint-Haon-le-Châtel)
3️⃣ Fundamentals of Cheese Sales
Immersive training in France
Because knowing a great cheese is only the first step; knowing how to communicate and sell it is just as important.
This training addresses essential aspects of specialty cheese retailing, including product knowledge, sensory analysis applied to sales, cheese reception and preservation, cutting techniques, assortment building, merchandising, customer service, and commercial storytelling. The program also includes hands-on experiences in specialty cheese shops managed by MONS Fromager Affineur.
This training will also be delivered by Laurent Mons, whose expertise in cheese selection, affinage, retail strategy, and customer experience has contributed to the international reputation of the MONS network. Participants will benefit from first-hand insights into the commercial approach, storytelling techniques, and quality standards that distinguish one of Europe’s most renowned cheese companies.
The coordination, translation, and support of the group throughout the training will be handled by Malen Sarasua.
Duration: 3 days
Location: Mons Fromager Affineur (Saint-Haon-le-Châtel)
DATES AND REGISTRATION
The final dates for the Autumn 2026 editions have already been published.
Updated information available on the websites of:
ESNEKI Zentroa: www.esnekizentroa.eus
MONS Formation: www.mons-formation.com
- Dates
- Detailed programs
- Training calendar
- Course content
- Participation requirements
- Practical information for the courses held in France
Registrations will be managed directly by MONS Formation through its online platform.
Registration link: https://www.mons-formation.com/blank-1
WHY TRAIN WITH MONS FORMATION AND ESNEKI ZENTROA?
- Training delivered by internationally recognized professionals, including Laurent Mons, internationally renowned affineur and cheese expert, and Malen Sarasua, accredited MONS Formation trainer and member of the MONS Formation Spanish Delegation.
- Programs specifically adapted for Spanish-speaking participants.
- A combination of theory, practice, and sensory analysis.
- Access to unique cheese affinage and commercialization facilities in Europe.
- A progressive learning pathway for developing skills in cheese affinage and sales.