Emmental Cheese vs Taleggio Cheese

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

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

Taleggio Cheese Overview

Taleggio is a semi-soft, washed-rind cheese from the Lombardy region of Italy. It has a strong aroma but a surprisingly mild, fruity, and slightly tangy flavor with a creamy texture that becomes more pronounced as the cheese ages. Taleggio is excellent for melting and is often used in risottos or on polenta.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Emmental Cheese comes from Switzerland. Taleggio 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. Emmental Cheese has a PDO (2004). Taleggio Cheese has a PDO (1996).

Milk Type and Treatment

Emmental Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw. Taleggio Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically heated.

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". Taleggio's texture can be described as "soft, slightly melting under the rind, firmer towards the center".

Taste and Aroma

Emmental Cheese has a nutty, sweet taste. Taleggio Cheese has a sweet, delicate, slightly sour taste. Taleggio's aroma can be described as "herbaceous, aromatic".

Appearance and Aging

Emmental Cheese's appearance is colored yellow , is available in round loaves and is aged 4 months to over 1 year . Taleggio Cheese has a color of pinkish-red rind, white to straw yellow inside , comes in square, 7–8 inches wide, 1.5–3 inches high, 3.7–4.8 pounds weight and has an aging period of at least 35 (up to 50) days .

Rind and Rennet Type

Taleggio Cheese's rind is described as soft, thin, pinkish-red , with calf rennet.

Ranking

Emmental is ranked #16 out of 996 types based on community views. Taleggio is ranked #27 out of 996 types based on community views.

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 soft, slightly melting under the rind, firmer towards the center consistency, Taleggio might be the better pick. Emmental has a nutty, sweet taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Taleggio offers a sweet, delicate, slightly sour profile, ideal for different meals.

Compare Emmental Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Taleggio Cheese to Other Cheeses