Urbanstead 'Nati Gouda: sixteen months in the making, and worth every one of them.
Handcrafted in small batches in Cincinnati — "the Nati" — Urban Stead ages this gouda for a full 16 months, coaxing out a depth of flavor you won't find in a younger wheel. The result is a cheese that opens with rich notes of salted caramel and butterscotch, rounds into a firm, crystalline bite, and finishes with a long, savory umami note that lingers pleasantly on the palate.
At a glance:
This item is perishable and should arrive within 2 days of shipment from our headquarters in Dayton, Ohio. Depending on where this item is headed, it may require expedited shipping.
On a cheese board: Slice 'Nati Gouda into thin wedges and let it come to room temperature for 20-30 minutes before serving — this brings out the caramel and butterscotch notes fully. Pair with honeycomb, dried apricots, or spiced nuts to echo its sweetness, and a crusty baguette or water crackers to let the cheese lead.
Melted: 'Nati Gouda melts beautifully, making it a natural for grilled cheese, mac and cheese, or a grilled cheese and bacon board. Its umami finish holds up well against smoky, salty additions like applewood bacon or prosciutto.
With drinks: The caramel notes pair naturally with a bourbon or an amber ale, while the umami finish stands up well to a bold red wine like a Malbec or Zinfandel.
Simple pairing plate: Serve alongside sliced apples or pears and a drizzle of honey for a quick, elegant appetizer that highlights the cheese's sweet-savory balance.
Please store in the refrigerator immediately upon arrival. Remember the one hour rule: allow your cheese to come to room temperature before enjoying.
That natural rind isn't just for looks — it's part of what gives 'Nati Gouda its character, developing slowly alongside the cheese over those 16 months of aging. Every wheel is made by hand, in small batches, the way Urban Stead has always done it.
Whether sliced onto a cheese board, melted into a grilled cheese, or enjoyed simply with a glass of something bold, 'Nati Gouda brings a caramelized, savory depth that makes it worth seeking out.
We'd love to fill your plate with recipes, stories of our food adventures, gift ideas, and news of sale items.
SIGN UP FOR OUR E-NEWSLETTERS