Allgäuer Bergkäse Cheese vs Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese
Allgäuer Bergkäse Cheese
Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese
Allgäuer Bergkäse Cheese is a cheese, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is grainy, flaky and made from cow milk, originating in Italy.
What Is Allgäuer Bergkäse Cheese?
Allgäuer Bergkäse is a German raw milk mountain cheese with a protected designation of origin. Loaves weigh 15 to 50 kg, ripen at least four months, and taste mild, aromatic and nutty, with more punch as the cheese ages.
What Is Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
Parmigiano Reggiano is a hard, granular Italian cheese made from unpasteurised cow's milk and aged at least 12 months. Protected as a PDO across Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena and parts of Bologna and Mantua, it is known for its sharp, salty, deeply savoury taste.
What's the Difference Between Allgäuer Bergkäse Cheese and Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
- Rind: Allgäuer Bergkäse Cheese (Yes), Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Hard)
- Aging: Allgäuer Bergkäse Cheese (4 months), Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (12 to 36 months)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Allgäuer Bergkäse Cheese | Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | — | Italy |
| Specific Origin | Landkreise Lindau (Bodensee), Oberallgäu, Ostallgäu, Unterallgäu, Ravensburg, Bodenseekreis; Städte Kaufbeuren, Kempten, Memmingen | Emilia-Romagna Region |
| Milk Type | — | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Raw | Raw |
| Texture | — | Grainy, flaky |
| Rind | Yes | Hard |
| Aging | 4 months | 12 to 36 months |
| Taste | — | Umami |
Taste Comparison: Does Allgäuer Bergkäse Cheese Taste Like Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct. Aging plays into this as well. Allgäuer Bergkäse Cheese at 4 months develops a different profile than Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese at 12 to 36 months.
Can You Substitute Allgäuer Bergkäse Cheese for Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
Allgäuer Bergkäse Cheese can stand in for Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Allgäuer Bergkäse Cheese or Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want.
Which is your favorite?
One click, anonymous. See what others chose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Allgäuer Bergkäse Cheese the same as Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Aging also differs: Allgäuer Bergkäse Cheese is typically aged 4 months, Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese 12 to 36 months.
Is Allgäuer Bergkäse Cheese similar to Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Allgäuer Bergkäse Cheese for Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Allgäuer Bergkäse Cheese taste like Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Allgäuer Bergkäse Cheese made of?
Allgäuer Bergkäse Cheese is made from milk (raw). It's typically aged 4 months.
What is Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese made of?
Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is made from cow milk (raw), using calf rennet. It's typically aged 12 to 36 months. It originates in Italy.
Which should I choose, Allgäuer Bergkäse Cheese or Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.