Cheese Around the World: A Virtual Tour of the Best Cheeses

Cheese is not just food; it’s a cultural icon that tells the story of a region, its history, and its people. From creamy French Brie to tangy Italian Gorgonzola, cheese lovers around the globe can rejoice in the diversity and flavors that each country offers. Let’s take a friendly, virtual tour of some of the most iconic cheeses from around the world.

France: The Home of Elegance and Flavor

France is often regarded as the cheese capital of the world, boasting over 400 varieties of cheese. Here are a few must-tries:

• Brie de Meaux: Known as the “Queen of Cheeses,” this soft, creamy cheese is a classic French delicacy. With its rich, buttery flavor and a hint of earthiness, it pairs beautifully with fresh baguettes and a glass of champagne.

• Roquefort: A bold, blue-veined cheese aged in limestone caves, Roquefort has a tangy, salty flavor that adds depth to salads or melts perfectly over steak.

• Comté: A nutty, firm cheese that has been aged for months (or even years), Comté is perfect for cheese boards or melted into a luxurious fondue.

Italy: Where Cheese Meets Tradition

Italy’s cheeses are as celebrated as its pasta and wine. Here’s what makes the list:

• Parmigiano-Reggiano: Known as the “King of Cheeses,” this hard, aged cheese has a nutty, umami-rich flavor. It’s perfect for grating over pasta or eating on its own with a drizzle of honey.

• Mozzarella di Bufala: Made from buffalo milk, this fresh and creamy cheese is the heart of a classic Caprese salad. Its mild flavor and soft texture make it a summertime favorite.

• Gorgonzola: Italy’s take on blue cheese, Gorgonzola ranges from mild and creamy to sharp and crumbly. Pair it with figs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an irresistible snack.

Switzerland: Land of Cheese and Mountains

Switzerland may be famous for its chocolate and watches, but its cheese is equally impressive.

• Gruyère: A smooth, semi-hard cheese with a nutty flavor, Gruyère is perfect for melting. It’s the star ingredient in Swiss fondue or a classic Croque Monsieur.

• Emmental: Known for its iconic holes, Emmental has a mild, slightly sweet flavor. It’s great for sandwiches or melted into casseroles.

England: Where Cheddar Reigns Supreme

England’s cheese scene is all about comfort and bold flavors.

• Cheddar: Originally from Somerset, traditional English Cheddar is sharp, crumbly, and perfect for everything from sandwiches to cheese sauces.

• Stilton: Known as the “King of English Cheeses,” Stilton is a bold blue cheese with a crumbly texture and a tangy kick. It pairs wonderfully with port wine or pear slices.

Spain: A Taste of the Mediterranean

Spain’s cheeses are a blend of tradition and creativity, often made from sheep’s or goat’s milk.

• Manchego: Made from sheep’s milk, Manchego is nutty, firm, and slightly salty. It’s best enjoyed with quince paste or a handful of almonds.

• Idiazabal: A smoked sheep’s milk cheese from the Basque region, Idiazabal adds a rustic, savory touch to any cheese board.

United States: Innovation Meets Tradition

While the U.S. may be younger in the world of cheese, it’s quickly gaining recognition for its artisan creations.

• Wisconsin Cheddar: Known for its sharp, rich flavor, Wisconsin Cheddar is a staple in the American cheese scene. It’s perfect for burgers, mac and cheese, or enjoying on its own.

• Humboldt Fog: This creamy, tangy goat cheese from California is known for its distinctive line of vegetable ash running through the center. It’s a true showstopper on any cheese board.

Other Noteworthy Countries

• Greece: Feta cheese is a Mediterranean favorite, crumbled over salads or baked into pies like spanakopita.

• Netherlands: Gouda, a semi-hard cheese with a creamy texture and sweet, nutty flavor, is perfect for melting or snacking.

• Japan: While cheese isn’t traditionally part of Japanese cuisine, recent years have seen a rise in innovative cheeses, including sake-infused varieties.

How to Explore These Cheeses from Home

If this virtual tour has your taste buds tingling, why not bring the world of cheese to your doorstep? You can curate your own international cheese board by exploring artisan cheese subscriptions or specialty shops like Cheese Grotto, where award-winning storage solutions keep your cheeses fresh and flavorful.

Cheese isn’t just food; it’s a way to experience the world without leaving your kitchen. From the grassy hills of France to the bustling cities of the U.S., each cheese tells a story of its origin. So, grab your favorite glass of wine, some crusty bread, and take your own culinary journey around the globe.