TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best Dutch Cheese Types
Old Amsterdam is a Dutch Gouda-style cheese made from pasteurized cow's milk. The cheese is matured at three stages, and each one brings out certain characteristics of flavor and texture. As the wheels mature at different rates, master cheesemakers decide when each wheel is ready for consumption based on texture and flavor.
The texture of Old Amsterdam is hard and smooth, dotted with occasional eyes and tiny granular crystalline pieces of amino acids. The color of the paste is similar to butterscotch, while the flavors are sweet, rich, toasty, nutty, robust, and caramel-like.
Pair with
THE BEST Old Amsterdam Cheeses
Dutch for farmer's cheese, Boerenkaas is produced using unpasteurized, raw milk from the farm's own animals, which is why only a small percentage of Dutch cheeses can carry that name. Unlike its factory-made counterpart, this unique handmade cheese is said to be more a product of art than of science.
Depending on the type of milk used in the process, there are four variations of Boerenkaas: Goudse, Leidse, and Edammer Boerenkaas made from cow's milk and Boerenkaas from goat's, sheep's, or buffalo's milk. Additionally, seeds, herbs, and spices can be added to turn the flavor up a notch.
Noord-Hollandse Gouda is an aromatic and pleasant cheese that can be mild or intense, depending on its age. Its varieties include Graskaas, Jong, Jong belegen, Belegen, Extra belegen, Oud and Extra oud.
The older the cheese variety, the stronger and saltier it gets. This type of Gouda cheese has a PDO status and is made from 100% North-Holland milk. It was originally made in the town of Gouda in South Holland, so its registered name 'North-Holland Gouda' may seem wrong.
Pair with
THE BEST Noord-Hollandse Gouda Cheeses
The Netherlands' most prominent export product and one of the world's most popular cheeses, Gouda, is a yellow to orange, creamy, and sweet cow's milk cheese. Because they are pressed into molds, Gouda cheeses usually have a characteristic flattened wheel shape, and many are instantly recognizable thanks to their yellow and red waxy, plastic-looking coating.
Its texture ranges from semi-hard to hard, depending on aging time, and the taste also changes with aging. Therefore, Gouda cheeses are classified based on aging time. There are a total of six categories: young cheese (4 weeks), young matured (8–10 weeks), matured (16–18 weeks), extra matured (7–9 months), old cheese (10–12 months), and very old cheese (12 months and more).
THE BEST Gouda Cheeses
Reypenaer is a unique artisanal Dutch cheese that's a variety of Gouda, but taken through a few maturation stages. The cheese is made from cow's milk, and the aging takes place in controlled conditions in an old warehouse near the Oude Rijn river.
The three varieties are: Reypenaer 1 year, with a soft creamy texture and flavors that are slightly creamy, fruity, salty, and nutty, Reypenaer VSOP, aged for 2 years, with a delicate crystalline texture, a strong, full flavor, and aromas of caramel, wood, hazelnut, and chocolate, and the third one is Reypenaer XO Reserve (ripened from 2 1/2 to 3 years), an exceptionally complex, deep-flavored cheese with mature crystalline texture and aromas of cognac, walnuts, butter, caramel, and grass.
Also known as Friesian, Dutch Kanterkaas is a hard, cylindrical cheese that can be additionally flavored with cloves; in which case it's called Kanternagelkaas, or with cumin in which case it's called Kanterkomijnekaas.
The Dutch word kanter, meaning 'edge', gives the cheese its name, because there is a sharp corner at the bottom of the cheese, and it is rounded off at the top. The rinds of these cheeses differ from one another, so Kanterkaas and Kanternagelkaas have a transparent or yellow rind, while Kanterkomijnekaas may be either transparent, yellow, or red.
Gouda Holland is a semi-hard Dutch cheese that's produced exclusively from cows' milk from Dutch farms, and it's one of the most popular cheeses worldwide. The cheese is made in a flattened wheel shape and it's flavorful and aromatic (mild, fruity, sweet, butterscotch flavors), depending on the stage of maturity.
Young Gouda has a sweet, fruity taste, and as it ages it becomes deep yellow and firmer, almost granular. Its flavor is complex; from fruity notes to hints of cocoa and groundnut, which leave a rich and smooth feel in the mouth. It is typically used sliced in sandwiches, or cut into cubes and eaten as a snack.
THE BEST Gouda Holland Cheeses
Edelweiss Creamery
Cellar Aged Grass Based Gouda
American Cheese Society Judging & Competition Awards - 1st Place 2018, 2010
Beemster Classic is an aged version of this Gouda-style Dutch cheese. The cheese is made from cow's milk and it's aged for at least 18 months. Underneath its natural rind, the texture of this semi-hard cheese is firm, smooth, and creamy.
The aromas are strong and rich, while the flavors are salty, sharp, and reminiscent of burnt caramel, with a sweet finish. It's recommended to use the cheese in sandwiches. Pair it with Malbec or full-bodied white wines, or go for a glass of hoppy and bitter craft beer.
Beemster is also one of the bestselling cheeses in the US, and it's won a Super Gold medal at the 2014 World Cheese Awards.
Pair with
Maasdam is a traditional cheese made from cow's milk. This semi-hard cheese has a waxed rind that hides a creamy and supple texture specked with numerous large eyes. The aromas are fruity, while the flavors are mild, nutty, buttery, and sweet.
Maasdam is high in fat, with a minimum of 45%. It was created in the early 1990s as a replacement for the expensive Swiss Emmental cheese. The cheese ages from 4 to 12 weeks. When young, it's usually eaten as a snack or it's used in sandwiches. Maasdam can also be melted in soups, fondues, and casseroles.
Pair with
Noord-Hollandse Edammer is a soft, spherical cheese, with a flat top and bottom, made from cow's milk obtained exclusively from the pastures of North Holland, which gives it its unique taste. Its distinctive characteristics include a low salt content (its saltiness is significantly lower than that of other varieties of Edam cheese), high production quality, and a red, waxy outer coating.
It comes from the town of Edam in North Holland, where it's prepared following the instructions from a traditional recipe and has a PDO certificate. As it ages, Noord-Hollandse Edammer becomes firmer. The cheese has been produced on farms since the Middle Ages, which is evident from the Edam cheese presses that are displayed in numerous museums in North Holland.
Pair with
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best Dutch Cheese Producers
Zuivelfabriek De Graafstroom is a cheese producer located in Bleskensgraaf, Netherlands. It has been operational since 1908 and specializes in producing Dutch Gouda cheese. The company is a part of the DeltaMilk cooperative, which includes over 175 dairy farms, ensuring a steady supply of fresh milk.
De Graafstroom distinguishes itself by using traditional methods combined with modern technology to craft its cheeses.
AWARDS
Global Cheese Awards - Best
2024, 2023, 2021, 2019
Global Cheese Awards - Champion
2024, 2023, 2019
Global Cheese Awards - Gold
2024, 2023, 2021, 2019, 2018
BEST Zuivelfabriek De Graafstroom Cheeses
Parrano is a Dutch cheese that combines the flavor of Italian Parmesan with the creamy texture of Dutch Gouda. It has a nutty, savory taste similar to Parmesan, but it's smoother and less crumbly, making it ideal for slicing, grating, or melting. Parrano is aged to develop its unique flavor profile and is often described as having a mild, slightly sweet taste with hints of nuttiness.
This versatile cheese is popular for cooking, adding to pasta dishes, or serving on a cheese platter.
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2023, 2021
Global Cheese Awards - Gold
2023
BEST Parrano Cheeses
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2022
Global Cheese Awards - Gold
2023
International Cheese Awards - Gold
2023, 2022
BEST Zijerveld Cheeses
Kaashandel Remijn is a cheese producer based in the Netherlands, specializing in the distribution and production of a wide variety of Dutch cheeses. The company, based in Kerkdriel, partners with numerous Dutch cheese producers to offer an extensive range of cheeses, including both traditional favorites and innovative new products.
Their offerings cater to both the retail and food service sectors.
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Gold
2023, 2022, 2021
International Cheese Awards - Gold
2022
World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2024, 2021
BEST Kaashandel Remijn Cheeses
AWARDS
International Cheese Awards - Gold
2022, 2019
World Cheese Awards - Gold
2021
Global Cheese Awards - Gold
2019
BEST Dejong Cheese Cheeses
AWARDS
International Cheese Awards - Gold
2024, 2023, 2022, 2019
BEST De Mèkkerstee Cheeses
Amalthea B. V. is a cheese producer based in the Netherlands that specializes in goat cheeses. The company supplies a variety of goat cheese formats, including wheels, logs, and slices, focusing on both the domestic and international markets. Amalthea B.
V. is involved in sustainable farming practices and collaborates with local goat farmers.
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2022
World Cheese Awards - Gold
2022
BEST Amalthea B.v. Cheeses
Kaasmakerij Utopia is a cheese producer located in the Netherlands. It specializes in traditional Dutch cheeses, employing artisanal methods for production. They focus on high-quality, locally-sourced milk to ensure the freshness and richness of their products.
The company also offers tours and tastings to showcase their cheese-making process.
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2023
BEST Kaasmakerij Utopia Cheeses
Rouveen Kaasspecialiteiten is a cheese producer located in Rouveen, a village in the Netherlands. It specializes in producing a wide variety of cheeses, employing traditional methods alongside modern technology. The company is known for its ability to create small, customized batches of cheese, catering to specific customer needs and preferences.
Rouveen Kaasspecialiteiten also focuses on sustainability, implementing environmentally friendly practices in its production processes.
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2023
BEST Rouveen Kaasspecialiteiten Cheeses
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best Dutch Cheeses
Lutjewinkel1916 Intens & Royaal is a premium cheese product crafted by Friesland Campina Cheese. It is known for its rich and intense flavor, which is a result of traditional cheese-making techniques honed over years of experience. This cheese is aged to perfection, offering a deep, robust taste that pairs well with a variety of wines and accompaniments.
Each wheel is carefully monitored to ensure consistent quality and superior taste.
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Gold
2022, 2021
World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2024, 2022
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Gold
2023
Global Cheese Awards - Best
2024
Global Cheese Awards - Champion
2024
Signature Gouda Extra Aged made by De Graafstroom is a premium cheese renowned for its rich, complex flavors that develop during its extended aging process. This Gouda type is typically characterized by a firm texture and distinct, slightly crumbly consistency, which is the result of a maturation period that can last up to 18 months or more.
The cheese has a deep, golden color and often features small, crunchy protein crystals that add a delightful texture. Its flavor profile includes notes of caramel, butterscotch, and hints of nuttiness, making it a favorite among cheese connoisseurs.
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Gold
2023
Global Cheese Awards - Best
2024
Global Cheese Awards - Gold
2024
Parrano Robusto from Campina Cheese in Amersfoort, Netherlands, is part of a distinct collection of cheeses that blend Dutch craftsmanship with an Italian flair. This cheese is known for its robust and mature flavor profile, which combines the nutty, buttery taste reminiscent of Parmesan with the smooth, creamy texture of a young Dutch Gouda.
Parrano Robusto is particularly versatile in the kitchen, suitable for various dishes from pastas to risottos, enhancing them with its rich flavor. This cheese has been recognized for its quality and taste, notably winning a gold medal at an international cheese competition in Wisconsin, demonstrating its excellence in a competitive field?
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2023, 2021
Global Cheese Awards - Gold
2023
Goudse 48+ Overjarig by De Graafstroom is a premium Dutch cheese known for its robust and rich flavor profile. It is aged for over a year, which contributes to its firm texture and pronounced taste, featuring caramel and nutty undertones. This cheese is made from high-quality cow's milk, ensuring a creamy consistency that contrasts delightfully with its crystalline structure.
Ideal for cheese boards, it pairs exceptionally well with wines and fruits.
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2021
Global Cheese Awards - Gold
2023
International Cheese Awards - Gold
2022
Âlde Fryske is a type of traditional Dutch cheese produced by De Fryske, a company known for its artisanal cheeses. It is characterized by its robust, tangy flavor that develops during an extensive aging process. The cheese is typically made from the rich, creamy milk of Friesian cattle, giving it a unique texture and taste that sets it apart from other varieties.
De Fryske prides itself on using time-honored methods to create cheeses like Âlde Fryske, ensuring a high-quality, authentic product.
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2022
Culture Cheese Magazine Best Cheeses issue - Best
2023
The Eminence Grise - Tomme Chèvre Grise au Bleu is a cheese product created by the Dutch company Van der Heiden Kaas. It is a goat cheese known for its unique combination, featuring a distinctive blue veining which adds a robust and tangy flavor to the creamy texture typical of Tomme-style cheeses.
This amalgamation makes it stand out with a nuanced taste that will appeal to those who enjoy complex cheeses. The product highlights the quality and craftsmanship of Van der Heiden Kaas, a company well-regarded for its diverse and high-standard cheese offerings.
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2021
International Cheese Awards - Gold
2022
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2021
International Cheese Awards - Gold
2019
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2022
Supreme Cow is a premium cheese product created by Kaasmakerij Henri Willig, a renowned Dutch cheesemaker. This cheese is known for its creamy texture and rich, full-bodied flavor, which is a result of the high-quality milk sourced from local farms.
The artisans at Henri Willig follow traditional cheesemaking methods while also incorporating innovative techniques to produce a distinct and superior cheese. Supreme Cow has won several awards for its taste and quality, making it a favorite among cheese enthusiasts.
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2023
TasteAtlas food rankings are based on the ratings of the TasteAtlas audience, with a series of mechanisms that recognize real users and that ignore bot, nationalist or local patriotic ratings, and give additional value to the ratings of users that the system recognizes as knowledgeable. For the “Top 100 Dutch Cheeses” list until March 23, 2025, 1,788 ratings were recorded, of which 1,541 were recognized by the system as legitimate. TasteAtlas Rankings should not be seen as the final global conclusion about food. Their purpose is to promote excellent local foods, instill pride in traditional dishes, and arouse curiosity about dishes you haven’t tried.