Aged Gouda Cheese vs Munster Cheese

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

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

Munster Cheese Overview

Munster is a strong-smelling, soft cheese from the Alsace and Lorraine regions of France. It has a washed rind, which gives it a red-orange color and a distinctive pungent aroma. The flavor is rich and tangy, often enjoyed with cumin seeds and paired with beers or strong wines.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Aged Gouda Cheese comes from Netherlands. Munster Cheese originated from France.

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. Munster Cheese has a AOC (1969).

Milk Type and Treatment

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

Composition and Texture

Aged Gouda's texture can be described as "hard". Munster Cheese has a fat content of 45-48%. Munster's texture can be described as "semisoft".

Taste and Aroma

Aged Gouda's aroma can be described as "rich". Munster Cheese has a strong, gamey taste. Munster's aroma can be described as "gamey, aromatic".

Appearance and Aging

Aged Gouda Cheese's appearance is colored yellow . Munster Cheese has a color of orangey-pink to orange-red , comes in flat wheel, 1-3 inches high, 5-8 inches diameter and has an aging period of 4-6 weeks to 2-3 months .

Rind and Rennet Type

Aged Gouda Cheese's rind is described as waxed . Munster Cheese's rind is described as washed, saltwater solution , with traditional rennet.

Ranking

Aged Gouda is ranked #69 out of 996 types based on community views. Munster is ranked #46 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Aged Gouda and Munster 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 semisoft consistency, Munster might be the better pick.

Compare Aged Gouda Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Munster Cheese to Other Cheeses