, then select "Add to Home Screen" to get instant access.
Log In
Explore
Cheeses
Cheesemakers
Types
Pairings
Cheese Map
Free Tools
Chèvre (Goat Cheese) vs Monterey Jack Cheese
Chèvre (Goat Cheese)
Monterey Jack Cheese
In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Chèvre (Goat Cheese) and Monterey Jack Cheese, including:
- "What is the difference between Chèvre (Goat Cheese) and Monterey Jack Cheese?"
- "Is Chèvre (Goat Cheese) and Monterey Jack Cheese the same?"
- "How does Chèvre (Goat Cheese) compare to Monterey Jack Cheese cheese?"
- "How does the taste of Chèvre (Goat Cheese) compare to Monterey Jack Cheese?"
- "Is Chèvre (Goat Cheese) or Monterey Jack Cheese better?"
Chèvre (Goat Cheese) Overview
Chèvre is the French word for goat, and it refers to any cheese made from goat's milk. These cheeses can vary widely in texture from soft and creamy to firm and crumbly. Chèvre flavors range from mild and smooth to tangy and bold, depending on the age and production methods.
Monterey Jack Cheese Overview
Monterey Jack is a popular American cheese originating from Monterey, California. It's known for its mild flavor and semi-soft texture, making it an excellent melting cheese. Monterey Jack can be enjoyed on its own or used in a variety of dishes, particularly Mexican and American cuisines, such as quesadillas and burgers.
Comparing the Two Cheeses
Country of Origin
Chèvre (Goat Cheese) comes from France. Monterey Jack Cheese originated from Mexico and United States.
Milk Type and Treatment
Chèvre (Goat Cheese) is made with goat milk that is typically pasteurized or unpasteurized. Monterey Jack Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized.
Composition and Texture
Chèvre (Goat Cheese)'s texture can be described as "soft". Monterey Jack Cheese has a fat content of not less than 50% on a dry basis and a moisture content of none. Monterey Jack's texture can be described as "mild to firm".
Taste and Aroma
Chèvre (Goat Cheese) has a tangy taste. Chèvre (Goat Cheese)'s aroma can be described as "goaty". Monterey Jack Cheese has a mild to full-flavored taste. Monterey Jack's aroma can be described as "aromatic".
Appearance and Aging
Chèvre (Goat Cheese)'s appearance is colored white . Monterey Jack Cheese has a color of cream to golden and has an aging period of six weeks to ten months .
Rind and Rennet Type
Monterey Jack Cheese uses animal rennet.
Ranking
Chèvre (Goat Cheese) is ranked #21 out of 996 types based on community views. Monterey Jack is ranked #17 out of 996 types based on community views.
Pairing Comparison
| Chèvre (Goat Cheese) | Monterey Jack | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Pairings | Albariño, Asparagus, Bresaola, Cabernet Franc, California Viogniers, Cava, Champagne, Fig Jam, German Riesling, Green Tea, Grüner Veltliner, Honey, Honeycomb, Kiwi, Kombucha, Olives, Pinot Grigio, Raspberry, Riesling, Roasted Vegetables, Salmon, Sauvignon Blanc, Sparkling Rosé, Strawberries, Tequila, Vinho Verde, White Burgundy | Macaroni and Cheese, Pulled Pork, Tacos |
| Other Good Pairings | Asti Spumante, Avocado, Beaujolais, Dried Cranberries, Dried Fruit, Gamay, Ginger, Mangoes, Mushrooms, Pear, Pecans, Pesto, Pinot Gris, Pumpkin, Seaweed, Sweet Potato, Viognier | Clam Chowder, Pastrami |
For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Chèvre (Goat Cheese) and Monterey Jack pages.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Chèvre (Goat Cheese) | Monterey Jack Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | France | Mexico And United States |
| Specific Origin | Not Specified | Monterey County, California |
| Milk Type | Goat | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized or unpasteurized | Pasteurized |
| Fat Content | Not Specified | Not less than 50% on a dry basis |
| Moisture Content | Not Specified | Not more than 44% |
| Texture | Soft | Mild to firm |
| Taste | Tangy | Mild to full-flavored |
| Aroma | Goaty | Aromatic |
| Colors | White | Cream to golden |
| Age | Not Specified | Six weeks to ten months |
| Rennet Type | Not Specified | Animal |
Which One Should You Choose?
If you prefer a soft cheese, go for Chèvre (Goat Cheese). But if you enjoy a mild to firm consistency, Monterey Jack might be the better pick. Chèvre (Goat Cheese) has a tangy taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Monterey Jack offers a mild to full-flavored profile, ideal for different meals.
