Types of Cheese From Around the World: Cheddar, Brie, Gorgonzola

Tap a cheese to see its origin and traits.

Cheddar (England)

One of the world's most widely consumed cheeses, known for a firm texture and rich, nutty flavor that varies significantly in intensity based on aging time.

Brie (France)

A soft cheese with a white, edible rind surrounding a creamy interior, originating from the Brie region near Paris, France.

Mozzarella (Italy)

Known for a chewy, soft texture and its meltable, stretchy quality, which makes it widely used on pizza and in caprese salad.

Gouda (Netherlands)

A semi-hard cheese with a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that develops a more caramel-like richness the longer it's aged.

Parmesan (Parmigiano-Reggiano) (Italy)

A hard cheese aged for up to several years, prized for its strong umami flavor and commonly grated over pasta or risotto.

Gorgonzola (Italy)

A blue cheese made by cultivating blue mold, known for its sharp, pungent aroma and salty flavor.

Feta (Greece)

A crumbly, notably salty cheese made from sheep's or goat's milk β€” an essential ingredient in Greek salad.

Camembert (France)

Similar to Brie but with a richer, earthier flavor β€” a soft cheese originating from the Normandy region.

Ricotta (Italy)

A soft, mild cheese made by reheating the leftover whey from cheesemaking, frequently used in lasagna and desserts.

Cheese Varies Endlessly Based on How It's Made

Even starting from the same milk, aging time, whether mold is cultivated, and moisture content completely change a cheese's flavor and texture. Knowing the origin and traits of cheeses you encounter often makes it much easier to pair them well with wine or a meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the blue mold in blue cheese safe to eat?

Yes β€” the mold used in blue cheeses like Gorgonzola is a specific strain safely cultivated for food use, and it's the key element that creates the cheese's distinctive flavor.

What's the best way to store cheese?

Wrapping it in cheese paper or wax paper and refrigerating it helps retain moisture and aroma while preventing it from drying out too much.