The Applewood Smoked Gouda is a simple Gouda that has been, well, smoked with the wood of an apple tree.

There are many cheeses that have a smoked flavor coming naturally or from a process. With these cheeses exists a spectrum of smokiness. Either hints of smokey flavor or completely full of it. The Applewood Smoked Gouda falls more towards the earlier. The smokey flavor is subtle for most of the body of this softer Gouda, but comes out in more prominent notes towards the edges. The smokey flavor has a deft body to it, distinctly Applewood.

There was something in the combination of smoke and lack of great firmness in this Gouda that did not appeal to me. It felt like it was missing something. Like it needed to be applied to something else to shine. The cheese seller that had this particular cheese suggested it be melted over a burger and I think that is a wonderful suggestion for it. This Applewood Smoked Gouda definitely needs something else to made use of fully and to show off its smokey composition. Recommended for grilling and cooking, but not for simple eating.