Luxurious and meltable, the smooth nutty flavor of Swiss Gruyere cheese is our favorite candidate for fondues or anything au gratin. But don’t relegate this versatile cheese to just one genre of cooking, slice it onto sandwiches, cheese trays, and more, for a singularly delicious cheese-eating experience. Browse our selection below for a taste of Gruyere at its finest!
Gruyère cheese is a firm, cow's milk cheese originating from Switzerland. Recognized for its nutty flavor and smooth texture, it is often used in culinary creations such as fondues, quiches, and gourmet sandwiches. About Gruyère Cheese Named for the Swiss town Gruyère, in which it was created, this tasty variety has been a feature of classic Swiss cooking since its inception. Most notably featured alongside the other famous Swiss cheese Emmental in the traditional fondue preparation. Flavor and Pairings Made from whole, cow’s milk, Gruyère is generally cured for around six months and offers a pleasant mild taste characterized by zesty, nutty notes of flavor. A versatile ingredient, it pairs well with all the classic accompaniments you might find on a charcuterie board or mezze platter. Sliced apples, pears, or grapes balance the cheese's savory and nutty profile. Cured meats such as prosciutto or salami, mustards, crackers, or a crusty baguette, all the makings of a delicious appetizer board or a tasty packed picnic are the ideal partners for Gruyère. Take a wheel of this classic along on hikes, picnics, and any packed lunch where you know its nutty taste will be the ideal enhancement. Gruyère cheese pairs exceptionally well with a variety of accompaniments, enhancing its rich flavor. Opt for wines like Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or a light Pinot Noir. The acidity and fruity notes complement its inherent nuttiness. For more recipes, images, details, and recommendations visit Gourmet Food Store! A Good Melting Cheese Not all cheeses are created equal in terms of meltability. While the process of making cheese always follows along similar lines, some types melt beautifully while others never melt. The reason for this is based on how they're made. While good melters like Gruyère rely on rennet to form their curds, varieties like ricotta and queso fresco rely on an acid. Those made with rennet will melt, while those made with acid won’t. Within these categories, the younger the cheese is, the more moisture it retains, and the higher the water-to-fat ratio is, the better it will melt. So if you’re buying your next wedge of Gruyère looking to create a rich and creamy finished dish, opt for a young six-month option over, say, a 12-month variety.