Gouda, 18 Month Aged

Cheese Type: Hard

Country: Netherlands

Milk Type: Cow

Aged Gouda (18 Month) is a Dutch cheese that bears little resemblance to the mild, rubbery young Gouda most people know. At 18 months of aging, the cheese undergoes a remarkable transformation, developing a firm texture, deep amber color, and complex flavors that rival the world’s finest hard cheeses.

Flavor Profile

18-month aged Gouda has a firm, slightly crystalline texture with rich caramel and butterscotch flavors. The sweetness is balanced by a savory depth, and small tyrosine crystals add a pleasant crunch. The color deepens from pale yellow to a warm amber. This is where aged Gouda begins to reveal its extraordinary potential.

How to Serve

Serve on cheese boards as a standalone highlight or paired with other aged cheeses for a tasting progression. Break into chunks rather than slicing for the best texture experience. Aged Gouda pairs exceptionally well with dark beer and whiskey.

Pairing Suggestions

Pair with a Belgian Dubbel, a dark porter, or an aged whiskey. Also pairs well with dried fruits, dark chocolate, and walnuts.