Fontal Cheese vs Zimbro Cheese
Fontal Cheese is a cow-milk cheese from Italy, while Zimbro Cheese is soft, artisan and made from sheep milk, originating in Portugal.
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 Zimbro Cheese?
Zimbro is a soft, artisan cheese from Portugal made from unpasteurized sheep's milk. It has a pale yellow color and a washed rind, contributing to its clean aroma. The cheese offers a sweet flavor with herbal notes, making it a tasty choice for those who enjoy mild yet flavorful cheeses. Its soft texture makes it easy to spread, perfect for pairing with crusty bread or fresh fruits. Enjoy it as part of a cheese platter or simply on its own to appreciate its natural taste.
What's the Difference Between Fontal Cheese and Zimbro Cheese?
- Origin: Fontal Cheese (Italy), Zimbro Cheese (Portugal)
- Milk type: Fontal Cheese (cow), Zimbro Cheese (sheep's milk)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Fontal Cheese | Zimbro Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Italy | Portugal |
| Specific Origin | Italy | — |
| Milk Type | Cow | Sheep's milk |
| Milk Treatment | — | Unpasteurized |
| Texture | — | Soft, artisan |
| Rind | — | Washed |
| Taste | — | Herbaceous, sweet |
Taste Comparison: Does Fontal Cheese Taste Like Zimbro Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Fontal Cheese for Zimbro Cheese?
Fontal Cheese can stand in for Zimbro Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Fontal Cheese or Zimbro 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 Zimbro Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Fontal Cheese originates in Italy, while Zimbro Cheese comes from Portugal. Fontal Cheese is made from cow milk; Zimbro Cheese uses sheep.
Is Fontal Cheese similar to Zimbro Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Fontal Cheese for Zimbro Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in richness and milk character.
Does Fontal Cheese taste like Zimbro 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 Zimbro Cheese made of?
Zimbro Cheese is made from sheep milk (unpasteurized). It originates in Portugal.
Which should I choose, Fontal Cheese or Zimbro Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.