Samso

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Samsø is a Danish cow's milk cheese named for the island of Samsø. It is made in the style of Emmentaler, with a supple yellow interior, a few large irregular holes, and a mild flavor that turns sweet and sour with age.

Key Facts

Country of Origin Denmark
Specific Origin The island of Samsø, Denmark
Milk Type Cow's milk
Milk Treatment Pasteurized
Fat Content 30-45%
Rind Waxed
Texture Semi-hard
Flavor Nutty, sour, sweet
Colors Yellow
Alternative Spellings Samsø

What is Samso Cheese?

Samsø comes from Denmark and takes its name from the island of Samsø. The cheese dates to the 1870s, when the king of Denmark invited Swiss cheesemakers to the country to teach their skill.

The interior is yellow, supple and elastic, with a few large holes spaced unevenly through the paste. Its rind is goldenrod in color and covered with a coat of yellow wax.

Flavor depends on age. Young wheels are gentle and nutty. Older ones turn pungent, with sweet and sour notes underneath. Set against Emmentaler, the cheese it most resembles, Samsø is the milder of the two.