This feature is dedicated to the Gentleman that asked for info on this cheese. So to answer the question my customer was directly asking I have just researched this for you and I quote from oldamsterdam.com “Westland uses taste and quality, not a specific length of time, to determine when Old Amsterdam is perfectly ripened. The decision to hold or release a particular batch of Old Amsterdam rests with our master cheese makers, and nobody else.” I know this doesnt directly answer the question but I hope that its enough to help.

This cheese started life in the early nineteenth century when the Westland family was a family of fishermen until the construction of the Afsluitdijk in 1932. Afsluitdijk is a major causeway that runs from Den Oever on Wieringen in North Holland, to the village of Zurich in Friesland  and its over 20 miles in length. This construction project caused a change in the way fish come in and out of the area, so the Westland’s turned their hand to cheese production namely Old Amsterdam.

So how does the Westland’s cheese taste?

Well quite brilliantly actually although it might not be for everyone as it is particularly strong and sweet but do not let that put you off! This cheese with its lovely orangey hue is a delight for the palette with its saltiness and the sweetness which balance each other perfectly. If your looking for an interesting and superb tasting hard cheese to serve on your cheeseboard look no further than Old Amsterdam.