semi-hard · cow milk · Netherlands · $$

Gouda

Melts beautifully, with a smooth texture.

Attribute scores

meltability 8/10

sharpness 5/10

creaminess 6/10

firmness 6/10

pungency 3/10

Best cheese wine pairing

Pair Gouda with a medium-bodied red like Merlot, or an unoaked Chardonnay — a milder semi-hard cheese (sharpness 5) is best met halfway, not overpowered.

Substitutes for Gouda

Emmental similar overall, but less sharpness Kasseri similar overall, but less creaminess Provolone similar overall, but more pungency Caciocavallo similar overall, but more pungency Tilsit cheese similar overall, but less meltability Leerdammer similar overall, but less sharpness