Aged Gouda Cheese vs Havarti Cheese
In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Aged Gouda Cheese and Havarti Cheese, including:
- "What is the difference between Aged Gouda Cheese and Havarti Cheese?"
- "Is Aged Gouda Cheese and Havarti Cheese the same?"
- "How does Aged Gouda Cheese compare to Havarti Cheese cheese?"
- "How does the taste of Aged Gouda Cheese compare to Havarti Cheese?"
- "Is Aged Gouda Cheese or Havarti 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.
Havarti Cheese Overview
Havarti is a semi-soft Danish cheese known for its creamy texture and mild, slightly tangy flavor. It is typically made from cow's milk and is a table cheese that can be sliced, grilled, or melted. Havarti may also be flavored with spices, herbs, or other additives to enhance its taste.
Comparing the Two Cheeses
Country of Origin
Aged Gouda Cheese comes from Netherlands. Havarti Cheese originated from Denmark.
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. Havarti Cheese has a PGI (2010).
Milk Type and Treatment
Aged Gouda Cheese is made with cow, goat, or sheep milk that is typically pasteurized or unpasteurized. Havarti Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized.
Composition and Texture
Aged Gouda's texture can be described as "hard". Havarti Cheese has a fat content of max 50% moisture, min 23% fat and a moisture content of none. Havarti's texture can be described as "smooth".
Taste and Aroma
Aged Gouda's aroma can be described as "rich". Havarti Cheese has a mild, buttery taste. Havarti's aroma can be described as "pungent aroma, earthy taste".
Appearance and Aging
Aged Gouda Cheese's appearance is colored yellow . Havarti Cheese comes in rectangular .
Rind and Rennet Type
Aged Gouda Cheese's rind is described as waxed . Havarti Cheese's rind is described as washed rind .
Ranking
Aged Gouda is ranked #65 out of 996 types based on community views. Havarti is ranked #8 out of 996 types based on community views.
Pairing Comparison
Aged Gouda | Havarti | |
---|---|---|
Best Pairings | Almonds, Apples, Apricot, Asian Pear, Belgian Blonde, Bordeaux, Burgundy Red, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, California Viogniers, Champagne, Crackers, Dried Cranberries, Grapes, Green Apple, IPA, Malbec, Merlot, Muscat, Pear, Pecans, Prosciutto, Pumpkin, Salami, Sangiovese, Scotch, Sweet Potato, Viognier | Kolsch, Pinot Gris, Riesling |
Other Good Pairings | Amaro, Cava, Dried Figs, Ginger, Mangoes, Pistachios, Port, Roasted Vegetables, Strawberries, Tequila | Apples, Asian Pear, Asparagus, Belgian Blonde, California Viogniers, Champagne, Crackers, Dirty Martini, Green Apple, Green Tea, Grilled Cheese, Hard Cider, IPA, Kombucha, Pistachios, Sauvignon Blanc, Shrimp, Sparkling Rosé, Viognier |
For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Aged Gouda and Havarti pages.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
Aged Gouda Cheese | Havarti Cheese | |
---|---|---|
Country of Origin | Netherlands | Denmark |
Specific Origin | Not Specified | No Specific Location |
Certification | Not Specified | PGI (2010) |
Milk Type | Cow's, goat's or sheep's milk | Cow's milk |
Milk Treatment | Pasteurized or unpasteurized | Pasteurized |
Fat Content | Not Specified | Max 50% moisture, min 23% fat |
Moisture Content | Not Specified | 40â45% (Typically) |
Rind | Waxed | Washed rind |
Texture | Hard | Smooth |
Taste | Not Specified | Mild, buttery |
Aroma | Rich | Pungent aroma, earthy taste |
Colors | Yellow | Not Specified |
Forms | Not Specified | Rectangular |
Which One Should You Choose?
If you prefer a hard cheese, go for Aged Gouda. But if you enjoy a smooth consistency, Havarti might be the better pick.