Fontal Cheese vs West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese
Fontal Cheese is a cow-milk cheese from Italy, while West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese is firm and made from cow milk.
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 West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese?
West Country Farmhouse Cheddar is a firm cow's milk cheese made by traditional methods in Somerset, Devon, Dorset and Cornwall. Its name has been protected in the EU and UK since 2007, and only milk from those four counties may be used.
What's the Difference Between Fontal Cheese and West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese?
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Fontal Cheese | West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Italy | — |
| Specific Origin | Italy | Dorset, Somerset, Devon And Cornwall |
| Milk Type | Cow | Cow |
| Milk Treatment | — | Raw |
| Texture | — | Firm |
| Rind | — | Cloth-wrapped |
| Aging | — | Minimum 9 months |
| Taste | — | Nutty, full-rounded with a hint of sharpness |
Taste Comparison: Does Fontal Cheese Taste Like West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Fontal Cheese for West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese?
In most recipes, Fontal Cheese and West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over.
Which Is Better, Fontal Cheese or West Country Farmhouse Cheddar 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 West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses.
Is Fontal Cheese similar to West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese?
Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.
Can I substitute Fontal Cheese for West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Fontal Cheese taste like West Country Farmhouse Cheddar 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 West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese made of?
West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese is made from cow milk (raw), using animal rennet. It's typically aged minimum 9 months.
Which should I choose, Fontal Cheese or West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.