Aged Gouda Cheese vs Raclette Cheese

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

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

Raclette Cheese Overview

Raclette is a semi-hard cheese made from cow's milk, famous for melting beautifully. It is native to parts of Switzerland and France. The cheese is typically heated, either in front of a fire or by a special machine, then scraped onto diners' plates; it's commonly served with small potatoes, gherkins, pickled onions, and dried meat.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Aged Gouda Cheese comes from Netherlands. Raclette Cheese originated from Switzerland.

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. Raclette Cheese has a .

Milk Type and Treatment

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

Composition and Texture

Aged Gouda's texture can be described as "hard". Raclette Cheese has a moisture content of 36-44%. Raclette's texture can be described as "semisoft, smooth".

Taste and Aroma

Aged Gouda's aroma can be described as "rich". Raclette Cheese has a mildly acidic taste.

Appearance and Aging

Aged Gouda Cheese's appearance is colored yellow . Raclette Cheese comes in wheel, 14-15 inches in diameter, approximately 3 inches in height and weighing between 15 to 18 pounds and has an aging period of 3-4 months .

Rind and Rennet Type

Aged Gouda Cheese's rind is described as waxed . Raclette Cheese's rind is described as washed , with animal rennet.

Ranking

Aged Gouda is ranked #75 out of 996 types based on community views. Raclette is ranked #59 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

Aged Gouda Raclette
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 No pairings listed.
Other Good Pairings Amaro, Cava, Dried Figs, Ginger, Mangoes, Pistachios, Port, Roasted Vegetables, Strawberries, Tequila Riesling

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

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Aged Gouda Cheese Raclette Cheese
Country of Origin Netherlands Switzerland
Specific Origin Not Specified Alpine Regions
Certification Not Specified
Milk Type Cow's, goat's or sheep's milk Cow's milk
Milk Treatment Pasteurized or unpasteurized Raw
Moisture Content Not Specified 36-44%
Rind Waxed Washed
Texture Hard Semisoft, smooth
Taste Not Specified Mildly acidic
Aroma Rich Not Specified
Colors Yellow Not Specified
Forms Not Specified Wheel, 14-15 inches in diameter, approximately 3 inches in height and weighing between 15 to 18 pounds
Age Not Specified 3-4 months
Rennet Type Not Specified Animal

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a hard cheese, go for Aged Gouda. But if you enjoy a semisoft, smooth consistency, Raclette might be the better pick.

Compare Aged Gouda Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Raclette Cheese to Other Cheeses

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