Fontal Cheese vs Vlašić Cheese
Fontal Cheese is a cow-milk cheese from Italy, while Vlašić Cheese is solid, spreadable and made from sheep milk, originating in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
What Is Fontal Cheese?
Fontal is one of the names that grew out of fontina, the cow's milk cheese first produced in Italy. Cheeses under derivative names like fontal are made in other parts of Italy and in Denmark, Sweden, Quebec, France, Argentina, and the United States.
What Is Vlašić Cheese?
Vlašić, also sold as Travnik cheese, is a white brined cheese from the Vlašić mountain above Travnik in central Bosnia and Herzegovina. Traditionally made from sheep milk, it ripens in brine and comes out mostly dry and quite salty.
What's the Difference Between Fontal Cheese and Vlašić Cheese?
- Origin: Fontal Cheese (Italy), Vlašić Cheese (Bosnia and Herzegovina)
- Milk type: Fontal Cheese (cow), Vlašić Cheese (Ewe’s milk)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Fontal Cheese | Vlašić Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Italy | Bosnia And Herzegovina |
| Specific Origin | Italy | Vlašić Mountain |
| Milk Type | Cow | Ewe’s milk |
| Milk Treatment | — | Strained |
| Texture | — | Solid, spreadable |
| Aging | — | Minimum 60 days |
| Taste | — | Milky sour, moderately salty |
Taste Comparison: Does Fontal Cheese Taste Like Vlašić Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Fontal Cheese for Vlašić Cheese?
Fontal Cheese can stand in for Vlašić Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Fontal Cheese or Vlašić Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want.
Which is your favorite?
One click, anonymous. See what others chose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fontal Cheese the same as Vlašić Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Fontal Cheese originates in Italy, while Vlašić Cheese comes from Bosnia and Herzegovina. Fontal Cheese is made from cow milk; Vlašić Cheese uses sheep.
Is Fontal Cheese similar to Vlašić Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Fontal Cheese for Vlašić Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in richness and milk character.
Does Fontal Cheese taste like Vlašić 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 cow milk. It originates in Italy.
What is Vlašić Cheese made of?
Vlašić Cheese is made from sheep milk (strained), using local natural calf rennet. It's typically aged minimum 60 days. It originates in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Which should I choose, Fontal Cheese or Vlašić Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.