Old Winchester Cheese vs Tomme de Savoie Cheese
Old Winchester Cheese is a hard cow-milk cheese from England, while Tomme de Savoie Cheese is semi-soft and made from cow milk, originating in France.
Buy Old Winchester Cheese
Buy Tomme de Savoie Cheese
What Is Old Winchester Cheese?
Old Winchester, also known as Old Smales, is a hard cheese made from pasteurized cow's milk in Landford, England. It has a firm texture and a rich, nutty aroma. The flavor is savory and tangy, with a hint of sweetness that adds depth. This cheese is reminiscent of an aged Gouda or Parmesan and often features a slightly crystalline texture due to the aging process. It's an excellent choice for grating over dishes or enjoying on a cheese board. Old Winchester pairs well with full-bodied red wines or dark ales, enhancing its sharp and nutty character.
What Is Tomme de Savoie Cheese?
Tomme de Savoie is a mild, semi-firm cow's milk cheese from Savoy in the French Alps. It is made from the skimmed milk left over from butter making, so the fat content stays low, and it carries a thick brownish-grey rind over a beige interior.
What's the Difference Between Old Winchester Cheese and Tomme de Savoie Cheese?
- Origin: Old Winchester Cheese (England), Tomme de Savoie Cheese (France)
- Milk treatment: Old Winchester Cheese (pasteurized), Tomme de Savoie Cheese (skimmed or unpasteurized)
- Texture: Old Winchester Cheese (Hard), Tomme de Savoie Cheese (Semi-soft)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Old Winchester Cheese | Tomme de Savoie Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | England | France |
| Specific Origin | Landford | Savoy, French Alps, France |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized | Skimmed or unpasteurized |
| Texture | Hard | Semi-soft |
| Rind | — | Natural |
| Aging | — | Several months |
| Taste | — | Grassy, nutty, tangy |
Taste Comparison: Does Old Winchester Cheese Taste Like Tomme de Savoie Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Old Winchester Cheese for Tomme de Savoie Cheese?
In most recipes, Old Winchester Cheese and Tomme de Savoie Cheese can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over. Expect hard bite and body where the recipe calls for semi-soft.
Which Is Better, Old Winchester Cheese or Tomme de Savoie Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a hard cheese, go with Old Winchester Cheese. For a semi-soft profile, Tomme de Savoie Cheese is the better fit.
Which is your favorite?
One click, anonymous. See what others chose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Old Winchester Cheese the same as Tomme de Savoie Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Old Winchester Cheese originates in England, while Tomme de Savoie Cheese comes from France.
Is Old Winchester Cheese similar to Tomme de Savoie Cheese?
Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.
Can I substitute Old Winchester Cheese for Tomme de Savoie Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in bite and mouthfeel.
Does Old Winchester Cheese taste like Tomme de Savoie Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Old Winchester Cheese made of?
Old Winchester Cheese is made from cow milk (pasteurized). It originates in England.
What is Tomme de Savoie Cheese made of?
Tomme de Savoie Cheese is made from cow milk (skimmed or unpasteurized). It's typically aged several months. It originates in France.
Which should I choose, Old Winchester Cheese or Tomme de Savoie Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Old Winchester Cheese is hard, while Tomme de Savoie Cheese is semi-soft.