This goat Gouda is nearly as rare as a unicorn. I am so lucky to be in a city with a shop like Dibrunos Bros., with their relationship with Essex St Cheese Co. and to have the chance to taste this sweet delight of a Gouda. I am also glad my friend talked me into buying a hunk to paint because I've learned, it's unlikely I will have another chance anytime soon.

I am a huge fan of this type of cheese and this one is special because it goest beyond the goat Gouda nutty-butterschotch tones that I've learned to expect from Betty Koster of Fromagerie L'Amuse. The flavor is of wonderful goats milk caramel while having the best brown sugar melt on your tongue, like a sacrament. It balances the sweet and the savory goodness. So, naturally, I felt obligated to paint this cheese portrait a bit larger, and show off its luminescent glow while lighting up all those calcium lactate crystals.

Essex St Cheese Co is the only importer of this cheese and they won't likely be bringing this in for the foreseeable future, due to an availability shortage. Winkel is a rare goat Gouda, for not being made commercially, and unlike the amazing L'Amuse Brabender, this is made with a natural rind. That aspect makes it rare, in Holland, as cheeses typically get taxed more heavily if not wax coated, requiring additional inspections. So, Betty sends it to the Loire Valley to be aged. Made in Holland, aged in France. Get some Winkel if you ever have the chance.

Country of Origin: Holland

Availability: sold