Simmental profile image
Cattle

Simmental

Technical profile

Reference data

Origin
Simme Valley, Switzerland
Adult weight
♀ 550–800 kg · ♂ 1,000–1,200 kg
Height / stature
Varies among national populations
Aptitude
Dual-purpose: dairy and beef

Characteristics

The technical spelling is Simmental, from Switzerland’s Simme valley. The breed has produced numerous national populations and is historically dual-purpose; breeding objectives vary from more dairy-oriented to more beef-oriented lines.

A red- or yellow-pied animal with substantial body capacity and good muscling. The Australian society gives 550–800 kg for mature cows and 1,000–1,200 kg for bulls; actual values depend on the national population and breeding direction.

Taste

Simmental generally offers a clean, moderately intense beef flavour, compact grain and balanced juiciness without feeling excessively fatty. Choose it when generous, versatile portions are needed: well-aged rib and loin for grilling and barbecue, rump for roasting, and shoulder or chuck for braising.

Territory

Provenance

  • Spain
  • Po Valley
  • Trentino-Alto Adige
  • Germany
  • Austria
  • Poland
RussiaUkraineFranceRomaniaUnited KingdomBelarusGreeceHungaryPortugalSerbiaCzech RepublicIrelandSlovakiaSwitzerlandDenmarkNetherlandsBelgiumAlbaniaPolandGermanyAustriaTrentino-Alto AdigePo ValleySpain
  • Spain
  • Po Valley
  • Trentino-Alto Adige
  • Germany
  • Austria
  • Poland