L'Etivaz Cheese vs Muenster Cheese

In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about L'Etivaz Cheese and Muenster Cheese, including:

• "What is the difference between L'Etivaz Cheese and Muenster Cheese?"
• "Is L'Etivaz Cheese and Muenster Cheese the same?"
• "How does L'Etivaz Cheese compare to Muenster Cheese cheese?"
• "How does the taste of L'Etivaz Cheese compare to Muenster Cheese?"
• "Is L'Etivaz Cheese or Muenster Cheese better?"

L'Etivaz Cheese Overview

L'Etivaz is a hard Alpine cheese from the Vaud region of Switzerland, similar to Gruyère but made in a more artisanal fashion. It is produced only from May to October, using milk from cows grazing on mountain pastures. The cheese has a complex flavor, with fruity, nutty notes and a hint of smokiness, developed during the traditional wood-fired production process.

Muenster Cheese Overview

Muenster is an American cheese derived from the Alsatian Munster cheese but milder in flavor. It has a smooth, soft texture and a bright orange rind, typically added to enhance its appearance. Muenster is excellent for melting over dishes like burgers and grilled cheese sandwiches.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

L'Etivaz Cheese comes from Switzerland. Muenster Cheese originated from United States.

Certification

Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. L'Etivaz Cheese has a GI (2011). Muenster is not a protected cheese.

Milk Type and Treatment

L'Etivaz Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically unpasteurized. Muenster Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized.

Composition and Texture

L'Etivaz's texture can be described as "hard". Muenster Cheese has a fat content of ~30-33% and a moisture content of none. Muenster's texture can be described as "semi-soft".

Taste and Aroma

L'Etivaz's aroma can be described as "smokey". Muenster Cheese has a mild, buttery, slightly tangy taste. Muenster's aroma can be described as "mild, slightly milky".

Appearance and Aging

L'Etivaz Cheese's appearance is colored pale yellow . Muenster Cheese has a color of pale yellow interior, orange rind , comes in block, wheel, sliced and has an aging period of typically 2-6 weeks .

Rind and Rennet Type

Muenster Cheese's rind is described as edible, orange-tinted (from annatto) , with microbial or vegetarian (varies by producer) rennet.

Ranking

L'Etivaz is ranked #82 out of 996 types based on community views. Muenster is ranked #9 out of 996 types based on community views.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a hard cheese, go for L'Etivaz. But if you enjoy a semi-soft consistency, Muenster might be the better pick.

Compare L'Etivaz Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Muenster Cheese to Other Cheeses