Swiss Cheese

Swiss cheese is known as the number one cheese. Its international name is Emmental, after the Alpine valley, which is considered the cheese's birthplace. In chronicles, Emmental cheese was first mentioned in the 15th century.

Swiss cheese is one of Switzerland's most recognizable and highly valued products, famous for its quality, variety, and production traditions. Switzerland is home to iconic cheeses such as Emmental, Gruyère, Tilsit, Sbrinz, and others. These cheeses are distinguished not only by their unique flavours but also by the methods of production that have been passed down through generations.

The maturation of Swiss cheese lasts 6-8 months, or even longer. It is characterised by a fine flavour bouquet dominated by a sweet-peachy, nutty flavour, a pliable, buttery consistency of the cheese mass and a well-defined and well-developed pattern of rather large ‘eyes’ with a ‘tear’.

The process of making Swiss cheese is based on ancient traditions and strict standards that ensure high-quality products. Cheeses are produced in various parts of the country, using milk from cows that graze on alpine pastures. The main stages of production include:

1. Milk collection: Swiss cheeses are made from fresh, raw milk from cows that graze in mountain meadows. This gives the cheese a special flavour, thanks to the natural conditions and the quality of the feed.

2. Curdling: After collection, the milk is heated and a rennet enzyme is added to help curdle the milk and form curds.

3. Cutting and heating: The curds are cut into small pieces and heated to help separate the whey from the curd mass.

4. Pressing and salting: The curd is pressed into moulds to give the cheese its characteristic shape. After this, the cheese is salted either by rubbing it with salt or submerging it in brine.

5. Ageing: The most important stage, where cheeses mature in special cellars. During this period, the cheeses are regularly salted or washed and turned to ensure even ageing. The ageing period can vary from several months to several years, depending on the type of cheese. For example, Gruyère ages from 6 to 18 months.
   
   

Swiss cheese is produced in a low, wide cylinder that weighs up to 100kg. Under the right conditions, it can be stored for up to 11/2-2 years.

Each type of Swiss cheese has unique characteristics:

• Emmental — known for its large holes, firm texture, and nutty flavour.
• Gruyère — has a dense, slightly crumbly texture and a rich, slightly salty flavour with fruity and nutty notes.
• Tilsit — a soft cheese with a spicy aroma and elastic texture.
• Sbrinz — one of the oldest Swiss cheeses, resembling Parmesan, with a crystalline structure and strong flavour.

The flavours of Swiss cheeses often depend on their ageing period. Younger cheeses have a milder taste and texture, while more aged cheeses develop intense and rich flavours.

To preserve the quality of Swiss cheese, it’s important to follow proper storage conditions:

1. Temperature: Cheeses are best stored at a temperature between +4°C and +8°C (39-46°F). The cheese drawer in the fridge or a cellar is ideal for this.

2. Packaging: It is recommended to store cheese in cheese paper or waxed paper. Plastic wrapping can prevent air circulation, leading to mould.

3. Shelf life: Soft cheeses (like Tilsit) are best consumed within a few weeks after purchase. Hard and semi-hard cheeses, such as Gruyère and Sbrinz, can be stored for longer, and their flavours may even improve over time.

4. Regular care: For aged cheeses stored for extended periods, it’s important to regularly check the surface and remove any signs of mould if they appear. It’s also recommended to turn the cheese periodically to ensure even ageing (if it’s stored as a block).
   
   

Swiss cheese is not just a food product, but a symbol of the country’s rich cultural heritage. Thanks to the high quality of the milk, strict production standards, and centuries-old traditions, Swiss cheeses have become true culinary masterpieces enjoyed worldwide. By following proper storage conditions, you can savour their excellent flavours for a long time.