, then select "Add to Home Screen" to get instant access.
Log In
Explore
Cheeses
Cheesemakers
Types
Pairings
Cheese Map
Free Tools
Aged Gouda Cheese vs Provolone Cheese
In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Aged Gouda Cheese and Provolone Cheese, including:
- "What is the difference between Aged Gouda Cheese and Provolone Cheese?"
- "Is Aged Gouda Cheese and Provolone Cheese the same?"
- "How does Aged Gouda Cheese compare to Provolone Cheese cheese?"
- "How does the taste of Aged Gouda Cheese compare to Provolone Cheese?"
- "Is Aged Gouda Cheese or Provolone 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.
Provolone Cheese Overview
Provolone is a well-known Italian cheese with a smooth, firm texture and a mild, slightly tangy flavor that becomes sharper and more robust with age. Made from cow's milk, this stretched-curd cheese can be aged from a few months to a year or more. Provolone is excellent for slicing, grating, or melting.
Comparing the Two Cheeses
Country of Origin
Aged Gouda Cheese comes from Netherlands. Provolone Cheese originated from Italy.
Milk Type and Treatment
Aged Gouda Cheese is made with cow, goat, or sheep milk that is typically pasteurized or unpasteurized. Provolone Cheese is made with cow milk.
Composition and Texture
Aged Gouda's texture can be described as "hard". Provolone's texture can be described as "semi-hard, artisan".
Taste and Aroma
Aged Gouda's aroma can be described as "rich". Provolone Cheese has a tangy taste. Provolone's aroma can be described as "pleasant".
Appearance and Aging
Aged Gouda Cheese's appearance is colored yellow . Provolone Cheese has a color of pale yellow .
Rind and Rennet Type
Aged Gouda Cheese's rind is described as waxed .
Ranking
Aged Gouda is ranked #75 out of 996 types based on community views. Provolone is ranked #4 out of 996 types based on community views.
Pairing Comparison
| Aged Gouda | Provolone | |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Pastrami, Salami |
| Other Good Pairings | Amaro, Cava, Dried Figs, Ginger, Mangoes, Pistachios, Port, Roasted Vegetables, Strawberries, Tequila | Chorizo, Grilled Cheese, Ham, Pinot Grigio, Pulled Pork, Roast Beef, Steak, Tomatoes, Tuna, Turkey |
For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Aged Gouda and Provolone pages.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Aged Gouda Cheese | Provolone Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Netherlands | Italy |
| Specific Origin | Not Specified | Not Specified |
| Milk Type | Cow's, goat's or sheep's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized or unpasteurized | Not Specified |
| Rind | Waxed | Not Specified |
| Texture | Hard | Semi-hard, artisan |
| Taste | Not Specified | Tangy |
| Aroma | Rich | Pleasant |
| Colors | Yellow | Pale yellow |
Which One Should You Choose?
If you prefer a hard cheese, go for Aged Gouda. But if you enjoy a semi-hard, artisan consistency, Provolone might be the better pick.
