Derby Cheese vs Fontina Cheese

In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Derby Cheese and Fontina Cheese, including:

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

Derby Cheese Overview

Derby cheese originates from Derbyshire, England, and is made from cow's milk. It is a semi-firm, ivory-colored cheese that is known for its buttery and mild flavor, with a hint of sweetness. The aroma is gentle, making it an approachable choice for many cheese enthusiasts. Derby is often compared to Cheddar, but it is usually softer and more moist. It is traditionally used in sandwiches or melted over dishes, but it can also be enjoyed on its own as a snack.

Fontina Cheese Overview

Fontina is a classic Italian cheese from the Aosta Valley, with a dense, smooth texture and a nutty, earthy flavor. It is made from cow's milk and has a slightly elastic feel. Fontina is excellent for melting and is often used in dishes like risotto, fonduta, and as a table cheese.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Derby Cheese comes from England and United Kingdom. Fontina Cheese originated from Italy.

Certification

Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. Derby is not a protected cheese. Fontina Cheese has a PDO (1996).

Milk Type and Treatment

Derby Cheese is made with cow milk. Fontina Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw or pasteurized.

Composition and Texture

Derby's texture can be described as "semi-firm, artisan". Fontina Cheese has a fat content of ~30-45% and a moisture content of none. Fontina's texture can be described as "semi-soft".

Taste and Aroma

Derby Cheese has a buttery, mild, sweet taste. Derby's aroma can be described as "mild". Fontina Cheese has a mild, buttery, nutty taste. Fontina's aroma can be described as "mild to pungent (earthier in aged versions)".

Appearance and Aging

Derby Cheese's appearance is colored ivory . Fontina Cheese has a color of pale yellow to golden , comes in wheel, block, sliced, shredded and has an aging period of typically 2-3 months (can be aged longer for stronger flavor) .

Rind and Rennet Type

Fontina Cheese's rind is described as natural, often washed , with traditional (animal) or microbial (varies by producer) rennet.

Ranking

Derby is ranked #462 out of 996 types based on community views. Fontina is ranked #65 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Derby and Fontina pages.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a semi-firm, artisan cheese, go for Derby. But if you enjoy a semi-soft consistency, Fontina might be the better pick. Derby has a buttery, mild, sweet taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Fontina offers a mild, buttery, nutty profile, ideal for different meals.

Compare Derby Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Fontina Cheese to Other Cheeses