Munster Cheese vs Raclette du Valais Cheese

In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Munster Cheese and Raclette du Valais Cheese, including:

• "What is the difference between Munster Cheese and Raclette du Valais Cheese?"
• "Is Munster Cheese and Raclette du Valais Cheese the same?"
• "How does Munster Cheese compare to Raclette du Valais Cheese cheese?"
• "How does the taste of Munster Cheese compare to Raclette du Valais Cheese?"
• "Is Munster Cheese or Raclette du Valais Cheese better?"

Munster Cheese Overview

Munster is a strong-smelling, soft cheese from the Alsace and Lorraine regions of France. It has a washed rind, which gives it a red-orange color and a distinctive pungent aroma. The flavor is rich and tangy, often enjoyed with cumin seeds and paired with beers or strong wines.

Raclette du Valais Cheese Overview

Raclette du Valais is a type of Raclette from the Swiss canton of Valais. It is a PDO product, known for its exceptionally creamy texture and robust flavor that enhances when melted. This cheese is traditionally made using raw cow’s milk and enjoyed as part of the iconic raclette meal.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Munster Cheese comes from France. Raclette du Valais Cheese originated from Switzerland.

Certification

Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. Munster Cheese has a AOC (1969). Raclette du Valais Cheese has a GI (2011).

Milk Type and Treatment

Munster Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically unpasteurized. Raclette du Valais Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw.

Composition and Texture

Munster Cheese has a fat content of 45-48%. Munster's texture can be described as "semisoft". Raclette du Valais Cheese has a moisture content of 36-44%. Raclette du Valais's texture can be described as "semisoft, smooth".

Taste and Aroma

Munster Cheese has a strong, gamey taste. Munster's aroma can be described as "gamey, aromatic". Raclette du Valais Cheese has a 'slightly lactic', 'milky', 'mildly acidic', 'fresh butter', 'floral', 'vegetal' taste.

Appearance and Aging

Munster Cheese's appearance is colored orangey-pink to orange-red , is available in flat wheel, 1-3 inches high, 5-8 inches diameter and is aged 4-6 weeks to 2-3 months . Raclette du Valais Cheese comes in wheel, specific to aoc standards, made in the canton of valais and has an aging period of minimum of 3-4 months, can vary based on cheesemaker .

Rind and Rennet Type

Munster Cheese's rind is described as washed, saltwater solution and uses traditional rennet. Raclette du Valais Cheese's rind is described as washed , with animal rennet.

Ranking

Munster is ranked #45 out of 996 types based on community views. Raclette du Valais is ranked #298 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Munster and Raclette du Valais pages.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a semisoft cheese, go for Munster. But if you enjoy a semisoft, smooth consistency, Raclette du Valais might be the better pick. Munster has a strong, gamey taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Raclette du Valais offers a 'slightly lactic', 'milky', 'mildly acidic', 'fresh butter', 'floral', 'vegetal' profile, ideal for different meals.

Compare Munster Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Raclette du Valais Cheese to Other Cheeses