Aged Gouda Cheese vs Fontina Cheese

In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Aged Gouda Cheese and Fontina Cheese, including:

• "What is the difference between Aged Gouda Cheese and Fontina Cheese?"
• "Is Aged Gouda Cheese and Fontina Cheese the same?"
• "How does Aged Gouda Cheese compare to Fontina Cheese cheese?"
• "How does the taste of Aged Gouda Cheese compare to Fontina Cheese?"
• "Is Aged Gouda Cheese or Fontina Cheese better?"

Aged Gouda Cheese Overview

Aged Gouda is a hard cheese from the Netherlands, known for its rich aroma and firm texture. It can be made from cow's, goat's, or sheep's milk and may be pasteurized or unpasteurized. The cheese has a yellow color and is typically covered with a waxed rind. As it ages, Gouda develops a deeper, caramel-like flavor with hints of nuttiness and a slight crunch from protein crystals. This makes it a popular choice for snacking or serving on cheese platters. Its rich taste pairs well with robust red wines or dark beers. Often referred to as Oud Gouda, this cheese is a staple in both local and international markets.

Fontina Cheese Overview

Fontina is a classic Italian cheese from the Aosta Valley, with a dense, smooth texture and a nutty, earthy flavor. It is made from cow's milk and has a slightly elastic feel. Fontina is excellent for melting and is often used in dishes like risotto, fonduta, and as a table cheese.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Aged Gouda Cheese comes from Netherlands. Fontina Cheese originated from Italy.

Certification

Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. Aged Gouda is not a protected cheese. Fontina Cheese has a PDO (1996).

Milk Type and Treatment

Aged Gouda Cheese is made with cow, goat, or sheep milk that is typically pasteurized or unpasteurized. Fontina Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw or pasteurized.

Composition and Texture

Aged Gouda's texture can be described as "hard". Fontina Cheese has a fat content of ~30-45% and a moisture content of none. Fontina's texture can be described as "semi-soft".

Taste and Aroma

Aged Gouda's aroma can be described as "rich". Fontina Cheese has a mild, buttery, nutty taste. Fontina's aroma can be described as "mild to pungent (earthier in aged versions)".

Appearance and Aging

Aged Gouda Cheese's appearance is colored yellow . Fontina Cheese has a color of pale yellow to golden , comes in wheel, block, sliced, shredded and has an aging period of typically 2-3 months (can be aged longer for stronger flavor) .

Rind and Rennet Type

Aged Gouda Cheese's rind is described as waxed . Fontina Cheese's rind is described as natural, often washed , with traditional (animal) or microbial (varies by producer) rennet.

Ranking

Aged Gouda is ranked #72 out of 996 types based on community views. Fontina is ranked #65 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Aged Gouda and Fontina pages.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a hard cheese, go for Aged Gouda. But if you enjoy a semi-soft consistency, Fontina might be the better pick.

Compare Aged Gouda Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Fontina Cheese to Other Cheeses