Discover the Flavour of Europe Through European Cheeses

Europe has always had a deep love affair with cheese, and it doesn’t take much digging to understand why. Over centuries, local farmers, cheesemakers and small dairies across the continent have created some of the most distinct, delicious and character-filled cheeses the world has ever known. Every region tells its own story through its cheese: the rolling hills of France, the rustic farms of Spain, the alpine slopes of Switzerland and beyond.

For UK cheese lovers, fresh from enjoying the rich world of local blues and cheddar, exploring European artisan cheese offers an exciting culinary adventure. Moving beyond familiar names opens up new flavours, textures and traditions that bring something truly special to the table, whether it’s for cooking, entertaining or simply savouring a quiet bite with a glass of wine.

Exploring the Richness of European Cheeses

We’ve put together a continental cheese selection that showcases the very best of what Europe has to offer. These are often mature, full-flavoured cheeses you won’t typically find on supermarket shelves. Many come from small-scale producers using time-honoured production methods, selected for their depth of flavour and sense of place.

At The Cheese Shop Nantwich, you’ll find a lovingly chosen range of these cheeses in our artisan cheese collection, with many falling into the category of cut cheese. These are sold in pieces rather than full rounds, allowing us to offer more variety and better value while still focusing on proper cheese, made with care.

Let’s explore France to Scandinavia and everything in between, one wedge at a time.

French Refinement and Complexity

France is arguably one of the world’s most iconic cheese producers, and with over 1,000 varieties, their cheesemaking tradition is one of depth and sophistication.

Think of a wedge of tangy Crottin de Chavignol, a French goat’s cheese that starts firm but softens as it ripens. Or try a piece of Brie de Meaux, a soft cow’s milk cheese with an earthy aroma and rich, runny centre. As cheeses mature, their taste evolves. A younger comté might be mellow and milky, while an aged one offers nuttier, deeper notes and delicate crystals that melt in the mouth.

In France, cheese is part of everyday life, and its selection ranges from delicate to punchy. Add a few slices to a baguette or serve with deli antipasti and a crisp glass of wine for a delightful evening spread.

Italy: Flavour and Versatility

Italian cheeses are crafted with a focus on both flavour and function. You’ll find cheeses perfect for grilling, grating or snacking straight from the board.

Parmesan, or Parmigiano-Reggiano, is a well-known name, but worth experiencing in its true aged form. Dense, crumbly and deeply savoury, it’s ideal for shaving over pasta or enjoying in small bites with honey or dried fruit.

Then there’s Taleggio, a washed-rind cheese with a soft, oozing centre and punchy aroma, not for the faint of heart. Or Asiago, which varies from creamy and young to firm and mature, depending on age.

Italy’s regions also offer cheeses like pecorino (made from sheep’s milk) and provolone, both full of salty and sharp depth. Pour yourself a glass of red, slice some cured meats and experience the warmth of Italian tradition.

Spanish Boldness and Earthy Charm

Spain’s cheese heritage doesn’t always get the credit it deserves, but it’s filled with rustic and robust flavours that shouldn’t be missed. Spanish cheeses often use sheep’s milk, creating a distinctive tang and creamy texture.

Manchego is the most famous, with its distinctive zig-zag rind and firm, ivory interior. Whether young or mature, it’s perfect with quince paste, olives or simply with crusty bread.

For something stronger, look to Torta del Casar, a soft and runny cheese with a bold grassy note, or Queso Idiazabal, a smoked cheese that’s earthy and savoury, often hand-made using traditional wooden tools.

Served with a few almond-stuffed olives and slices of chorizo, a Spanish cheese board becomes more than a snack; it’s a proper feast.

Dutch Classics with a Twist

The Netherlands may be best known for Gouda and Edam, but there is so much more behind the rind.

Aged Dutch cheeses have a dense yet creamy consistency that almost melts on the tongue. Mature Goudas can develop caramel and toffee-like notes, with delightful crunchiness from cheese crystals created during long-term ageing.

Today’s Dutch makers also experiment with added herbs and spices: look out for cheeses peppered with cumin or fenugreek seeds, giving them unexpected warmth and character.

Dutch cheeses age gracefully and are fantastic sliced for sandwiches or added to a pie. They make a great addition to any hard cheese lover’s plate.

Creamy Perfection from the Swiss Alps

Swiss cheese is all about comfort and tradition. Made in mountainous landscapes where cows graze on fresh herbs and wildflowers, the milk used is especially rich and flavourful.

Gruyère is a favourite, balancing sweetness and saltiness with a touch of nuttiness. Raclette, on the other hand, is made for melting. Heated and scraped onto potatoes or crusty bread, it transforms any gathering into something both simple and satisfying.

These cheeses are usually smooth, unaggressive, but deeply lovable. Bring out a fondue pot, and you’ll find even the pickiest of guests going back for seconds.

Hidden Gems: Germany, Scandinavia and Beyond

Not every amazing cheese comes from France or Italy. Germany and Austria are quietly making some truly outstanding alpine-style and washed rind cheeses. Scandinavia, better known for its smoked fish, offers melt-in-the-mouth blue cheeses and tangy farmhouse varieties.

Exploring less-familiar names like Danbo from Denmark or Alpkäse from Austria is a great way to deepen your cheese knowledge. There’s gold to be found in every corner of the continent.

If you’re interested in exploring British options too, we stock a proud range of English cheese in our shop as well, each with its own story and strength.

The Art of Small-Batch Cheese

What sets these European cheeses apart is not just the flavour, but how they’re made. Many are created in small batches by passionate cheesemakers following age-old traditions. The milk often comes from local herds, and production remains largely hands-on.

Many cheeses carry PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) or PGI labels, which ensure they are made in specific areas and to specific standards. This level of care leads to exceptional cheeses that reflect their unique environments and the makers behind them.

You’ll also find some excellent organic cheese, vegetarian choices, and vegan cheese in our range for those looking for alternatives.

Making the Most of Your Continental Cheese Selection

To enjoy cheese at its best, always let it reach room temperature before serving. This unlocks the full flavour and proper consistency. Most cheeses come alive when matched with the right wine, beer, crackers or fresh fruits.

Soft cheeses such as Brie or Camembert go beautifully with crusty breads and light reds. Hard cheeses like Parmesan and aged Gouda pair well with bold reds or a crisp cider. Even vegetarian cheese holds its own against spiced chutneys or roasted nuts.

For more ongoing discovery, our monthly Cheese Club can introduce you to new flavours year-round, including treats from all corners of Europe.

Europe is home to some of the most mouth-watering cheeses in the world, each with deep cultural roots and unforgettable flavours. Whether you’re drawn to creamy Swiss wedges, robust Spanish wheels or crumbly Italian blocks, there’s something special in every bite.

By bringing a little of the continental cheese selection into your kitchen, you’ll open up a world of flavour, tradition and craft. At The Cheese Shop Nantwich, we love helping you explore the delicious variety of European artisan cheese with confidence and curiosity.

Start building your own curated cheese journey today. Whether for simple lunches, weekend treat boards or dinner parties, these cheeses add flavour worth sharing.