Montasio Mezzano Cheese vs Reblochon Cheese
Montasio Mezzano Cheese is a semi-firm, artisan cow-milk cheese from Italy, while Reblochon Cheese is ivory-colored, creamy and supple and made from cow milk, originating in France.
What Is Montasio Mezzano Cheese?
Montasio Mezzano is a semi-firm cheese from the regions of Friuli Venezia Giulia and Veneto in Italy. Made from unpasteurized cow's milk, it is known for its full-flavored profile. The cheese offers a nutty and sweet taste, which is complemented by its strong aroma. It is crafted with an artisan approach, giving it a natural rind. Montasio Mezzano is often enjoyed on its own or used to enhance various Italian dishes. Its rich flavor makes it a popular choice among cheese lovers seeking something with depth and character.
What Is Reblochon Cheese?
Reblochon is a soft washed-rind and smear-ripened French cheese from the Alps region of Savoy. The cheese has a creamy, nutty taste under its orange-colored rind. It was traditionally made using the second milking of cows, which produces a richer milk. Reblochon is famously used in the dish "tartiflette," a gratin made with potatoes, bacon, and onions.
What's the Difference Between Montasio Mezzano Cheese and Reblochon Cheese?
- Origin: Montasio Mezzano Cheese (Italy), Reblochon Cheese (France)
- Milk treatment: Montasio Mezzano Cheese (unpasteurized), Reblochon Cheese (Raw)
- Texture: Montasio Mezzano Cheese (semi-firm, artisan), Reblochon Cheese (Ivory-colored, creamy and supple)
- Rind: Montasio Mezzano Cheese (natural), Reblochon Cheese (Yellow-orange covered with a thin white mold)
- Taste: Montasio Mezzano Cheese (full-flavored, nutty, sweet), Reblochon Cheese (creamy, nutty)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Montasio Mezzano Cheese | Reblochon Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Italy | France |
| Specific Origin | Friuli Venezia Giulia And Veneto | Haute-Savoie And Savoie |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Raw whole cow’s milk |
| Milk Treatment | Unpasteurized | Raw |
| Texture | Semi-firm, artisan | Ivory-colored, creamy and supple |
| Rind | Natural | Yellow-orange covered with a thin white mold |
| Aging | — | 3 to 4 months |
| Taste | Full-flavored, nutty, sweet | Creamy, nutty |
Taste Comparison: Does Montasio Mezzano Cheese Taste Like Reblochon Cheese?
Montasio Mezzano Cheese reads as full-flavored, nutty, sweet, while Reblochon Cheese brings creamy, nutty character.
Can You Substitute Montasio Mezzano Cheese for Reblochon Cheese?
In most recipes, Montasio Mezzano Cheese and Reblochon Cheese can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over. Expect semi-firm, artisan bite and body where the recipe calls for ivory-colored, creamy and supple. Flavor-wise, Montasio Mezzano Cheese reads as full-flavored, nutty, sweet while Reblochon Cheese brings creamy, nutty notes.
Which Is Better, Montasio Mezzano Cheese or Reblochon Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a semi-firm, artisan cheese, go with Montasio Mezzano Cheese. For a ivory-colored, creamy and supple profile, Reblochon Cheese is the better fit. Flavor-wise, Montasio Mezzano Cheese suits recipes that want full-flavored, nutty, sweet notes, while Reblochon Cheese fits dishes calling for creamy, nutty.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Montasio Mezzano Cheese the same as Reblochon Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Montasio Mezzano Cheese originates in Italy, while Reblochon Cheese comes from France.
Is Montasio Mezzano Cheese similar to Reblochon Cheese?
Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.
Can I substitute Montasio Mezzano Cheese for Reblochon Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in bite and mouthfeel.
Does Montasio Mezzano Cheese taste like Reblochon Cheese?
Montasio Mezzano Cheese reads as full-flavored, nutty, sweet, while Reblochon Cheese is creamy, nutty.
What is Montasio Mezzano Cheese made of?
Montasio Mezzano Cheese is made from cow milk (unpasteurized). It originates in Italy.
What is Reblochon Cheese made of?
Reblochon Cheese is made from cow milk (raw), using natural rennet. It's typically aged 3 to 4 months. It originates in France.
Which should I choose, Montasio Mezzano Cheese or Reblochon Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Montasio Mezzano Cheese is semi-firm, artisan, while Reblochon Cheese is ivory-colored, creamy and supple.