Double Gloucester Cheese vs Swaledale Ewes' Cheese
Double Gloucester Cheese
Swaledale Ewes' Cheese
Double Gloucester Cheese is a hard, artisan cow-milk cheese from England, while Swaledale Ewes' Cheese is hard, firm, crumbly and made from sheep milk.
What Is Double Gloucester Cheese?
Double Gloucester is a semi-hard cow's milk cheese made in Gloucestershire, England, since the 16th century. It ages longer than Single Gloucester, giving it a stronger, more savoury flavour, and it is the cheese sent rolling down Cooper's Hill each spring.
What Is Swaledale Ewes' Cheese?
Swaledale Ewes Cheese is a full-fat hard cheese made from ewe’s milk in Swaledale, North Yorkshire. It has a cylindrical shape, a firm and crumbly texture, and a natural white color. The cheese is either coated in a greenish-blue-grey mold or sealed with black wax. Made entirely by hand, the traditional production process includes pressing, brining for 24 hours, and a maturation period of 3 to 4 weeks. The cheese has been produced in the region for centuries using a closely guarded recipe passed down through generations. The distinct flavor is influenced by the local pastures, which provide a unique mix of herbs and grasses for the sheep.
What's the Difference Between Double Gloucester Cheese and Swaledale Ewes' Cheese?
- Milk type: Double Gloucester Cheese (cow's milk), Swaledale Ewes' Cheese (Sheep)
- Texture: Double Gloucester Cheese (hard, artisan), Swaledale Ewes' Cheese (Hard, firm, crumbly)
- Rind: Double Gloucester Cheese (natural), Swaledale Ewes' Cheese (Greenish-blue-grey mold or black wax coating)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Double Gloucester Cheese | Swaledale Ewes' Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | England | — |
| Specific Origin | Gloucestershire, England | Swaledale, North Yorkshire |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Sheep |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized in supermarket versions | — |
| Texture | Hard, artisan | Hard, firm, crumbly |
| Rind | Natural | Greenish-blue-grey mold or black wax coating |
| Aging | — | 3 to 4 weeks |
| Taste | Smooth, tangy | — |
Taste Comparison: Does Double Gloucester Cheese Taste Like Swaledale Ewes' Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Double Gloucester Cheese for Swaledale Ewes' Cheese?
Double Gloucester Cheese can stand in for Swaledale Ewes' Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe. Expect hard, artisan bite and body where the recipe calls for hard, firm, crumbly.
Which Is Better, Double Gloucester Cheese or Swaledale Ewes' Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a hard, artisan cheese, go with Double Gloucester Cheese. For a hard, firm, crumbly profile, Swaledale Ewes' Cheese is the better fit.
Which is your favorite?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Double Gloucester Cheese the same as Swaledale Ewes' Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Double Gloucester Cheese is made from cow milk; Swaledale Ewes' Cheese uses sheep.
Is Double Gloucester Cheese similar to Swaledale Ewes' Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Double Gloucester Cheese for Swaledale Ewes' Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in richness and milk character.
Does Double Gloucester Cheese taste like Swaledale Ewes' Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Double Gloucester Cheese made of?
Double Gloucester Cheese is made from cow milk (pasteurized in supermarket versions). It originates in England.
What is Swaledale Ewes' Cheese made of?
Swaledale Ewes' Cheese is made from sheep milk. It's typically aged 3 to 4 weeks.
Which should I choose, Double Gloucester Cheese or Swaledale Ewes' Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Double Gloucester Cheese is hard, artisan, while Swaledale Ewes' Cheese is hard, firm, crumbly.