What Is Havarti Cheese?
Havarti Cheese or Cream Havarti (Fløde Havarti in Danish) is a semi-soft Danish cow’s milk cheese. It is rindless, with a smooth surface and a cream or yellow color depending on the type. It has very small and irregular eyes (holes). It has a buttery aroma and a generally sweet taste with a slightly acidic tang. It can be sharp in the stronger varieties, resembling Swiss cheese. We also stock Havarti with Dill and Havarti with Caraway for those looking for additional flavor. Dill combines the flavors of fennel, anise, and celery, with a slight bitterness, whilst caraway has a very pungent, earthy anise flavor.
How Is Havarti Cheese Made?
Havarti cheese was initially created by Hanne Nielsen who operated an experimental farm called Havarthigaard, in Øverød, north of Copenhagen, in the mid-19th century. It is made like most cheeses, by introducing rennet to milk to cause curdling. The curds are pressed into cheese molds which are drained, and then the cheese is aged. Havarti is a washed curd cheese, which contributes to the subtle flavor of the cheese. It will usually be aged for around three months. As it ages it becomes saltier and nuttier.
What does havarti cheese taste like?
If you’ve never had havarti, you’re in for a treat. This semi-soft cow’s cheese is creamy, smooth, and supple in texture. With the first bite, you’ll be struck by how buttery and rich it is as well as perfectly mild but never boring. While we’ll happily gobble up classic havarti all day long, there are plenty of adventurous options when you’re in the mood to mix it up. Wisconsin Cheesemakers have perfected a number of varieties: try a dill-infused havarti for a Mediterranean-inspired bite, or a horseradish havarti that adds aromatic flair to any dish. You can never hav-arti enough!
What beer goes well with havarti cheese?
With such a light, delicate cheese, it is recommend to pair it with an equally light beer. Pilsner, saison ale, or sour ale all pair well with havarti. For more beer and cheese pairing tips, don’t forget to read our full guide covering all the details!
What wine pairs best with havarti cheese?
For red-wine, try a light-bodied option like Beaujolais or pinot noir. For that summer feeling, pair havarti with a chilled glass of rosé or sauvignon blanc.
What accompaniments should I serve with havarti cheese?
Havarti pairs well with sweeter, fresh fruits like pear, fig, or Honeycrisp apple. If you like pairing cheese with jam or jelly (who doesn’t?), try havarti with a little raspberry jam or honey. And, of course, don’t forget to include walnuts, crackers, or some crusty bread for some crunch.