Emmental Cheese vs Gruyere Cheese

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

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

Emmental Cheese Overview

Emmental is a classic Swiss cheese, known for its large holes and nutty, mild flavor. It is made from cow's milk and has a hard, dense texture. The holes, or "eyes," develop during the fermentation process as a result of gas released by the bacteria in the cheese. Emmental is often used in sandwiches and is a key ingredient in traditional Swiss fondue.

Gruyere Cheese Overview

American Gruyere is inspired by the classic Swiss cheese but made in the United States. It replicates the sweet, slightly nutty flavor of traditional Gruyere. This version is typically smoother and creamier, with fewer age-induced cracks and holes. It is commonly used in cooking, especially in fondues, gratins, and baked dishes.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Emmental Cheese comes from Switzerland. Gruyere Cheese originated from United States.

Certification

Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. Emmental Cheese has a PDO (2004). Gruyere is not a protected cheese.

Milk Type and Treatment

Emmental Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw. Gruyere Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized.

Composition and Texture

Emmental Cheese has a fat content of minimum of 45% (dry matter). Emmental's texture can be described as "hard or medium-hard". Gruyere Cheese has a fat content of ~30-34% and a moisture content of none. Gruyere's texture can be described as "semi-firm".

Taste and Aroma

Emmental Cheese has a nutty, sweet taste. Gruyere Cheese has a mild, nutty, slightly buttery taste. Gruyere's aroma can be described as "mild, slightly nutty, buttery".

Appearance and Aging

Emmental Cheese's appearance is colored yellow , is available in round loaves and is aged 4 months to over 1 year . Gruyere Cheese has a color of pale yellow to golden , comes in block, wheel, sliced, shredded and has an aging period of typically 3-6 months .

Rind and Rennet Type

Gruyere Cheese's rind is described as natural or brushed, sometimes waxed , with microbial or vegetarian (varies by producer) rennet.

Ranking

Emmental is ranked #15 out of 996 types based on community views. Gruyere is ranked #43 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Emmental and Gruyere pages.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a hard or medium-hard cheese, go for Emmental. But if you enjoy a semi-firm consistency, Gruyere might be the better pick. Emmental has a nutty, sweet taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Gruyere offers a mild, nutty, slightly buttery profile, ideal for different meals.

Compare Emmental Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Gruyere Cheese to Other Cheeses