Brand: Roth Kase
Place of Purchase: Wegman's in Liverpool, NY
Country of Origin: Monroe, WI, USA
Price in New York: $9.99/lb.
Milk: Raw cow milk
Processing: Gouda process from American cheesemakers with at least 9-months of aging
Texture: hard
Color: light orange/beige
Rind: Natural
Aroma: mild dairy, nutty
Taste: umami, earthy, nutty
Mouth-feel: Firm paste with protein crystals
Notes: I will admit that older gouda cheeses used to scare me. The protein crystals were crunchy in something that was supposed to be smooth. After I started this experiment, I learned that you need to take older gouda as thin slices and allow the cheese to warm in your mouth as you enjoy the release of flavors. The warmth of your body helps to break up the protein crystals, as well. The protein crystals are composed of amino acids which may be the source of the umami flavor. Do not confuse these crystals with lactic acid crystals found on the surface of lower quality cheeses.
That being said, this is a fine example of an American gouda-style cheese. It's warm and nutty and would be great for plain eating or melting. It doesn't compare to a 5-year Dutch Gouda, but it would serve well and please many.
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