, then select "Add to Home Screen" to get instant access.
Log In
Explore
Cheeses
Cheesemakers
Types
Pairings
Cheese Map
Free Tools
Derby Cheese vs Swiss Cheese
Derby Cheese
Swiss Cheese
In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Derby Cheese and Swiss Cheese, including:
- "What is the difference between Derby Cheese and Swiss Cheese?"
- "Is Derby Cheese and Swiss Cheese the same?"
- "How does Derby Cheese compare to Swiss Cheese cheese?"
- "How does the taste of Derby Cheese compare to Swiss Cheese?"
- "Is Derby Cheese or Swiss 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.
Swiss Cheese Overview
Swiss cheese in the United States refers to a group of cheeses that resemble the Emmental cheese from Switzerland, known for their medium-hard texture and distinctive holes or "eyes." American Swiss cheese is mild, nutty, and sweet, with a smooth, creamy texture, making it popular for sandwiches and burgers.
Comparing the Two Cheeses
Country of Origin
Derby Cheese comes from England and United Kingdom. Swiss Cheese originated from United States.
Milk Type and Treatment
Derby Cheese is made with cow milk. Swiss Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized.
Composition and Texture
Derby's texture can be described as "semi-firm, artisan". Swiss Cheese has a fat content of ~28-32% and a moisture content of none. Swiss's texture can be described as "semi-firm".
Taste and Aroma
Derby Cheese has a buttery, mild, sweet taste. Derby's aroma can be described as "mild". Swiss Cheese has a mild, nutty, slightly sweet taste. Swiss's aroma can be described as "mild, slightly nutty".
Appearance and Aging
Derby Cheese's appearance is colored ivory . Swiss Cheese has a color of pale yellow , comes in block, sliced, shredded and has an aging period of typically 1-3 months .
Rind and Rennet Type
Swiss Cheese's rind is described as none , with microbial or vegetarian rennet.
Ranking
Derby is ranked #465 out of 996 types based on community views. Swiss is ranked #76 out of 996 types based on community views.
Pairing Comparison
| Derby | Swiss | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Pairings | No pairings listed. | Chardonnay, Dijon Mustard, Ham, Pastrami, Tuna, Turkey |
| Other Good Pairings | No additional pairings listed. | Cabernet Franc, Chicken, Clam Chowder, Gamay, IPA, Kolsch, Pinot Grigio, Pinot Gris, Roast Beef, Salami, Sauvignon Blanc, Steak |
For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Derby and Swiss pages.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Derby Cheese | Swiss Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | England And United Kingdom | United States |
| Specific Origin | Derbyshire | Not Specified |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow |
| Milk Treatment | Not Specified | Pasteurized |
| Fat Content | Not Specified | ~28-32% |
| Moisture Content | Not Specified | ~37-41% |
| Rind | Not Specified | None |
| Texture | Semi-firm, artisan | Semi-Firm |
| Taste | Buttery, mild, sweet | Mild, Nutty, Slightly Sweet |
| Aroma | Mild | Mild, Slightly Nutty |
| Colors | Ivory | Pale Yellow |
| Forms | Not Specified | Block, Sliced, Shredded |
| Age | Not Specified | Typically 1-3 months |
| Rennet Type | Not Specified | Microbial or Vegetarian |
Which One Should You Choose?
If you prefer a semi-firm, artisan cheese, go for Derby. But if you enjoy a semi-firm consistency, Swiss might be the better pick. Derby has a buttery, mild, sweet taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Swiss offers a mild, nutty, slightly sweet profile, ideal for different meals.
