Here's why:
* Proper Noun: "Gorgonzola" is a proper noun, referring to a specific place and the cheese originating from that place. Proper nouns are capitalized.
* Brand Name: "Gorgonzola" is often used as a brand name for the cheese, further reinforcing its capitalization.
* Specificity: Using "Gorgonzola cheese" emphasizes that you're talking about that particular type of cheese, not just any blue cheese.
However, if you're using "gorgonzola" as a generic term for blue cheese, you wouldn't capitalize it:
* "I love blue cheese, especially gorgonzola."
In summary:
* Capitalize: "Gorgonzola cheese" when referring to the specific cheese from Italy.
* Lowercase: "gorgonzola" when used as a generic term for blue cheese.