What type of cheese is characterized as being hard and well-aged?

Hard cheese is distinguished by its firm texture and a significant aging process, which often results in a rich, concentrated flavor. This type of cheese, such as Parmesan or Gouda, is usually aged for a minimum of several months, with some varieties aged for several years. The aging process allows the moisture content to decrease, leading to a denser structure and stronger taste characteristics.

In contrast, mild cheese typically has a softer texture and is not aged as long, resulting in a milder flavor profile that lacks the complexities often found in hard cheeses. Semi-hard cheese sits between soft and hard varieties, having a firmer texture than soft cheese but not as dense or aged as hard cheese. Soft cheese, characterized by its creamy texture and often higher moisture content, also undergoes minimal aging, if any, which contributes to its gentle and fresh flavor. Thus, hard cheese stands out specifically for its long aging process and robust flavor, making it easily identifiable among the other types of cheese listed.