Gstaader Bergkase

Gstaader Bergkäse, or Berner Gstaader Bergkäse, is a traditional alpine cheese crafted daily in Gstaad, a luxurious holiday destination nestled in the Bernese Oberland of Switzerland. This cheese embodies the region’s rich heritage, made at an altitude of 1,080 meters from the thermised milk of Simmental cows grazing in the pristine pastures of Saanenland. Produced using a recipe unchanged for over a century, Gstaader Bergkäse reflects the natural bounty of the region, with its milk infused with the aroma of mountain herbs and pure alpine air. The wheels are aged for 4 to 6 months, developing a unique, tangy flavor with hints of fresh herbs and a mild spiciness. Key Fact Origin: Canton of Bern, Switzerland Milk: Cow (thermised milk) Rennet Type: Animal rennet Style: Semi-hard Classification: Artisan Shelf Life: 7-10 days, this product is cut to order Goes well with: Dry Oloroso Sherry, full-bodied and aromatic white wines Similar cheeses: First koning, Challerhocker, Comte, Swiss Gruyère Vieux Details A Cheese Rooted in Alpine Tradition The cheese’s rind features paper-cut silhouettes, a traditional craft from the Bernese Oberland, emphasizing its cultural ties to the region. This artisanal touch mirrors the care and precision that go into making each wheel of Gstaader Bergkäse. Production and Aging Milk and Coagulation Made daily with thermised cow’s milk, sourced from Simmental cows grazing on nutrient-rich mountain pastures. The milk carries subtle herbal and floral notes from the Saanenland’s alpine meadows. Craftsmanship The cheese is crafted in small batches using a traditional method that has been preserved for over 100 years. The curds are pressed to create the dense, firm texture characteristic of mountain cheeses. Aging Gstaader Bergkäse is matured for 4 to 6 months, allowing the flavors to develop a mild yet tangy profile with herbal undertones and a light, spicy kick. Flavor and Texture The cheese has a dense, smooth texture, perfect for slicing or melting. Its flavor is robust yet balanced, with aromatic notes of mountain herbs, a subtle nuttiness, and a mild spiciness that lingers on the palate. Pairing Suggestions Food: Serve Gstaader Bergkäse with rustic bread, grapes, or smoked ham. It melts beautifully, making it ideal for fondues or alpine-style dishes. Wine: Pair with a crisp Swiss Chasselas, a fruity Pinot Noir, or a dry Riesling to highlight its herbal and tangy notes. A little bit more Phonetic Pronunciation (English) Gstaader Bergkäse (Guh-shtah-der Bairg-kay-zuh) Gstaader Bergkäse is a perfect representation of the Bernese Oberland’s alpine heritage, offering a rich taste of mountain life with every bite. Whether enjoyed on its own, as part of a cheese board, or melted into a dish, it’s a must-try for lovers of authentic Swiss alpine cheeses.er Dietary Ingredients: Raw cow's milk, salt, cultures, animal rennet.