Ageing
MILD
6 weeks to 4 months, creamy softer texture, buttery flavour
MEDIUM
4-7 months, slightly firmer texture with a nutty flavour beginning to sharpen
EXTRA-MEDIUM
7-9 months, firm texture with a nutty sharpness
OLD
10-12 months, a firm cheese with a clear and apparent sharp nutty flavour
EXTRA OLD
1 year or older “The Old Lady”
Storage
Store Cheeselady’s Gouda cheese unopened in a cool place (12º C ~ 15º C) or in the refrigerator. After opening, a wheel needs to “breathe”, having been sealed in its wrapper for some time. Allowing it to “breathe” for one hour will improve the flavour of the cheese. For the best flavour, serve Cheeselady’s Gouda Cheese at room temperature. Gouda melts well and is excellent for fondue or a grilled cheese sandwich.
Slicing
If you slice the cheese like you would a loaf of bread, and refresh the cheese by slicing off a thin slice every other day it will keep longer in the refrigerator.