Fontal Cheese vs Fontina Cheese
Fontal Cheese
Fontina Cheese
Fontal Cheese is a cheese from Italy, while Fontina Cheese is semi-soft and made from cow milk, originating in Italy.
What Is Fontal Cheese?
Fontal is a semi-soft Italian cheese made from cow's milk. It has a creamy texture and a mild, somewhat sweet flavor, making it a popular choice for cooking and snacking. Fontal melts well, making it ideal for fondues, grilled cheese sandwiches, and pizza toppings.
What Is Fontina Cheese?
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.
What's the Difference Between Fontal Cheese and Fontina Cheese?
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Fontal Cheese | Fontina Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Italy | Italy |
| Milk Type | — | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | — | Raw (for traditional Italian Fontina), Pasteurized (for most American versions) |
| Texture | — | Semi-Soft |
| Rind | — | Natural, Often Washed |
| Aging | — | Typically 2-3 months (can be aged longer for stronger flavor) |
| Taste | — | Mild, Buttery, Nutty |
Pairing Comparison
What works with each cheese — wines, foods, breads, and more.
| Fontal Cheese | Fontina Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Pairings | — | Chardonnay |
| Other Good Pairings | — | Grilled Cheese, Macaroni and Cheese, Mushrooms, Prosciutto, Sangiovese |
Which would you pick?
One click, anonymous — see what others chose.
Where to buy Fontal Cheese and Fontina Cheese
Fontal Cheese
Fontina Cheese
Taste Comparison: Does Fontal Cheese Taste Like Fontina Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Fontal Cheese for Fontina Cheese?
Fontal Cheese can stand in for Fontina Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Fontal Cheese or Fontina Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fontal Cheese the same as Fontina Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses.
Is Fontal Cheese similar to Fontina Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Fontal Cheese for Fontina Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Fontal Cheese taste like Fontina Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Fontal Cheese made of?
Fontal Cheese is made from milk. It originates in Italy.
What is Fontina Cheese made of?
Fontina Cheese is made from cow milk (raw (for traditional italian fontina), pasteurized (for most american versions)), using traditional (animal) or microbial (varies by producer) rennet. It's typically aged typically 2-3 months (can be aged longer for stronger flavor). It originates in Italy.
Which should I choose, Fontal Cheese or Fontina Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.
See full profiles: Fontal Cheese and Fontina Cheese.