Appenzeller Cheese vs Fontal Cheese
Appenzeller Cheese
Fontal Cheese
Appenzeller Cheese is a firm cow-milk cheese from Switzerland, while Fontal Cheese is a cow-milk cheese, originating in Italy.
What Is Appenzeller Cheese?
Appenzeller is a hard cow's milk cheese from the Appenzellerland region of northeast Switzerland. Its wheels are washed with a herbal brine as they cure, which builds a golden rind, a strong smell, and a flavor that runs from mild and nutty to sharp.
What Is Fontal Cheese?
Fontal is one of the names that grew out of fontina, the cow's milk cheese first produced in Italy. Cheeses under derivative names like fontal are made in other parts of Italy and in Denmark, Sweden, Quebec, France, Argentina, and the United States.
What's the Difference Between Appenzeller Cheese and Fontal Cheese?
- Origin: Appenzeller Cheese (Switzerland), Fontal Cheese (Italy)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Appenzeller Cheese | Fontal Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Switzerland | Italy |
| Specific Origin | Appenzell Region | Italy |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow |
| Milk Treatment | Raw | — |
| Texture | Firm | — |
| Rind | Washed rind | — |
| Aging | 3 to 6 months or longer | — |
| Taste | Piquant, tangy | — |
Taste Comparison: Does Appenzeller Cheese Taste Like Fontal Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Appenzeller Cheese for Fontal Cheese?
In most recipes, Appenzeller Cheese and Fontal Cheese can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over.
Which Is Better, Appenzeller Cheese or Fontal 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 Appenzeller Cheese the same as Fontal Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Appenzeller Cheese originates in Switzerland, while Fontal Cheese comes from Italy.
Is Appenzeller Cheese similar to Fontal Cheese?
Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.
Can I substitute Appenzeller Cheese for Fontal Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Appenzeller Cheese taste like Fontal Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Appenzeller Cheese made of?
Appenzeller Cheese is made from cow milk (raw). It's typically aged 3 to 6 months or longer. It originates in Switzerland.
What is Fontal Cheese made of?
Fontal Cheese is made from cow milk. It originates in Italy.
Which should I choose, Appenzeller Cheese or Fontal Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.