Derby Cheese vs Double Gloucester Cheese

Derby Cheese is a semi-firm, artisan cow-milk cheese from England and United Kingdom, while Double Gloucester Cheese is hard, artisan and made from cow milk, originating in England.

What Is Derby Cheese?

Derby is a mild, semi-firm cow's milk cheese from Derbyshire, England, with a smooth, mellow texture and a buttery flavour. It sits close to Cheddar in taste but stays softer, and its best known version is the sage-flecked Sage Derby.

What Is Double Gloucester Cheese?

Double Gloucester is a semi-hard cow's milk cheese made in Gloucestershire, England, since the 16th century. It ages longer than Single Gloucester, giving it a stronger, more savoury flavour, and it is the cheese sent rolling down Cooper's Hill each spring.

What's the Difference Between Derby Cheese and Double Gloucester Cheese?

• Origin: Derby Cheese (England and United Kingdom), Double Gloucester Cheese (England)
• Texture: Derby Cheese (semi-firm, artisan), Double Gloucester Cheese (hard, artisan)
• Rind: Derby Cheese (natural or waxed), Double Gloucester Cheese (natural)
• Taste: Derby Cheese (buttery, mild, sweet), Double Gloucester Cheese (smooth, tangy)

Side-by-Side Comparison

Taste Comparison: Does Derby Cheese Taste Like Double Gloucester Cheese?

Derby Cheese reads as buttery, mild, sweet, while Double Gloucester Cheese brings smooth, tangy character. On the nose, Derby Cheese offers mild, contrasted with Double Gloucester Cheese's buttery, rich. More specifically, Derby Cheese shows springy and mild when young, turning firmer and subtly sweet with age, while Double Gloucester Cheese leans toward stronger and more savoury than single gloucester.

Can You Substitute Derby Cheese for Double Gloucester Cheese?

In most recipes, Derby Cheese and Double Gloucester Cheese can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over. Expect semi-firm, artisan bite and body where the recipe calls for hard, artisan. Flavor-wise, Derby Cheese reads as buttery, mild, sweet while Double Gloucester Cheese brings smooth, tangy notes.

Which Is Better, Derby Cheese or Double Gloucester Cheese?

There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a semi-firm, artisan cheese, go with Derby Cheese. For a hard, artisan profile, Double Gloucester Cheese is the better fit. Flavor-wise, Derby Cheese suits recipes that want buttery, mild, sweet notes, while Double Gloucester Cheese fits dishes calling for smooth, tangy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Derby Cheese the same as Double Gloucester Cheese?

No, they're distinct cheeses. Derby Cheese originates in England and United Kingdom, while Double Gloucester Cheese comes from England.

Is Derby Cheese similar to Double Gloucester Cheese?

Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.

Can I substitute Derby Cheese for Double Gloucester Cheese?

You can, but expect a shift in bite and mouthfeel.

Does Derby Cheese taste like Double Gloucester Cheese?

Derby Cheese reads as buttery, mild, sweet, while Double Gloucester Cheese is smooth, tangy. Aromas also diverge. Derby Cheese leans mild, and Double Gloucester Cheese is closer to buttery, rich.

What is Derby Cheese made of?

Derby Cheese is made from cow milk. It's typically aged 1 to 6 months. It originates in England and United Kingdom.

What is Double Gloucester Cheese made of?

Double Gloucester Cheese is made from cow milk (pasteurized in supermarket versions). It originates in England.

Which should I choose, Derby Cheese or Double Gloucester Cheese?

It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Derby Cheese is semi-firm, artisan, while Double Gloucester Cheese is hard, artisan.