Appenzeller Cheese vs Comté Cheese

Appenzeller Cheese

Comté Cheese

In this article, we’ll explore the answers to the most common questions about Appenzeller Cheese and Comté Cheese, including:

  • "What is the difference between Appenzeller Cheese and Comté Cheese?"
  • "Is Appenzeller Cheese and Comté Cheese the same?"
  • "How does Appenzeller Cheese compare to Comté Cheese cheese?"
  • "How does the taste of Appenzeller Cheese compare to Comté Cheese?"
  • "Is Appenzeller Cheese or Comté Cheese better?"

Appenzeller Cheese Overview

Appenzeller cheese hails from northeastern Switzerland and is famed for its rich, nutty flavor that intensifies with age. Treated with a secret blend of herbal brine, this cheese develops a smooth yet firm texture. Aged for a minimum of three months, Appenzeller is a key ingredient in fondue and pairs well with robust wines and ales.

Comté Cheese Overview

Comté is a French cheese made from cow's milk in the Jura region of France. It is one of the most popular AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) cheeses, known for its complex flavors which can include hints of apricot, chocolate, butter, cream, hazelnuts, and toast. Comté is aged for a minimum of four months, with some wheels maturing for over a year to develop a deeper flavor profile.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Ranking

Appenzeller is ranked #78 out of 375 types.

Comté is ranked #80 out of 375 types.

Country of Origin

Appenzeller Cheese comes from Switzerland. Comté 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. Appenzeller is not a protected cheese. Comté Cheese has a PDO (1996), AOC (1958).

Milk Type and Treatment

Appenzeller Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw. Comté Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw.

Composition and Texture

Appenzeller's texture can be described as "firm". Comté's texture can be described as "smooth".

Flavor and Aroma

Appenzeller Cheese has a piquant, tangy flavor. Comté Cheese has a nutty, creamy, sweet to meaty, roasted flavor.

Appearance and Aging

Appenzeller Cheese's appearance is colored pale yellow and is available in wheel . Comté Cheese comes in wide, flat wheels and has an aging period of 4 months to 3 years .

Rind and Rennet Type

Appenzeller Cheese's rind is described as washed rind .

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Appenzeller Cheese Comté Cheese
Country of Origin Switzerland France
Specific Origin Appenzell region Massif du Jura
Certification None PDO (1996), AOC (1958)
Milk Type Cow's milk Cow's Milk
Milk Treatment Raw Raw
Rind Washed rind
Texture Firm Smooth
Flavor Piquant, tangy Nutty, creamy, sweet to meaty, roasted
Colors Pale yellow
Forms Wheel Wide, flat wheels
Age 4 months to 3 years

Compare Appenzeller Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Comté Cheese to Other Cheeses