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 40–45% (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.

Compare Aged Gouda Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Havarti Cheese to Other Cheeses

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