Beemster Royaal Grand Cru is a PDO North Holland Gouda aged 12 months by the master cheesemakers at CONO Kaasmakers in Beemster, Netherlands. Developed to honor Beemster's Appointment as Purveyor to the Royal Court of the Netherlands — a distinction reserved for companies over 100 years old — this is one of their most prestigious cheeses. It carries a firm, smooth texture with characteristic crystallization that develops during the extended aging process, and delivers a rich, nutty, and regal flavor profile. Sold by the pound as a random-weight wedge at the Costco deli counter.

This cheese pairs beautifully with craft beers (IPA and Pilsner), full-bodied red wines (Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon), white wines (Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc), and cider. For a cheese board, serve alongside fennel salami, ham, apples, grapes, dried cranberries, walnuts, and jam on fruit-nut bread or crisps. Royaal Grand Cru is a multiple award winner, including World Cheese Championship Contest Champion, Super Gold, and World Top 20 honors, as well as World Cheese Awards Gold and Super Gold.

Nutrition per serving (1 oz / 28g, about one 1-inch cube): 120 calories, 9g total fat, 7g saturated fat, 0g trans fat, 25mg cholesterol, 210mg sodium, 0g total carbohydrate, 0g dietary fiber, 0g sugars, 7g protein. Good source of calcium (19% DV). Ingredients: Pasteurized cow's milk, salt, starter culture, rennet, annatto (for color). Contains: Milk. Product of Holland.