Noord-Hollandse Gouda

Noord-Hollandse Gouda is a type of Gouda cheese that originates from the Netherlands. It is specifically produced in the province of North Holland. This cheese is recognized as a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) product, ensuring its unique qualities and traditional production methods are preserved. Noord-Hollandse Gouda is made from cow's milk and is known for its aromatic and pleasant taste, which can range from mild to sharp depending on its age. The cheese has a flattened cylindrical or block shape and is less salty than other Gouda varieties. It is naturally ripened for a minimum of four weeks to over 18 months. The cheese's rind is smooth, closed, and yellow, treated only with uncolored or yellow-colored products.

Key Facts

Country of Origin	Netherlands
Specific Origin	North Holland
Protection	PDO (1996)
Milk Type	Cow's milk
Milk Treatment	Pasteurized
Fat Content	48% to 52% in dry matter
Moisture Content	Not to exceed 42.5% after at least 12 days from the 1st day of manufacture
Rind	Closed, smooth, yellow, no visible mold growth
Texture	Pliable, fills the borer, termed a 'soft dairy product'
Flavor	Aromatic, pleasant, mild to sharp
Colors	Uniformly ivory to yellow
Forms	Flattened cylindrical or block shape
Age	Minimum of 4 weeks to over 18 months
Rennet Type	Calf or microbial rennet, no genetically modified organisms used