The first cheese I am spotlighting is Cheddar. Cheddar cheese is one of the most popular types of cheese in the world.

Originating from the English village of Cheddar in Somerset, this cheese has become a staple in many households and is used in a variety of dishes. In this blog post, we will explore the history, aging, and characteristics of cheddar cheese.  I’ll also offer some tips for tasting it.

History

Cheddar cheese is a type of cheese that originated in the English village of Cheddar in Somerset, England. The exact origins of cheddar cheese are unclear, but it is believed to have been made in the area for centuries.

The production of cheddar cheese in Cheddar became more organized in the 12th century when Cistercian monks established a monastery in the village. They developed the cheese-making process, which involved pressing the curds to remove excess moisture and aging the cheese in caves to develop its characteristic flavor. 

By the 17th century, cheddar cheese had become a popular commodity in England, and cheesemakers began to produce it in larger quantities. They also began to experiment with different aging techniques and variations in the cheese-making process, which led to the development of different types of cheddar cheese.

Cheddar cheese became popular in the United States in the late 18th century when British colonists began to make the cheese in America. The first recorded shipment of cheddar cheese from the United States to England took place in 1851, and by the end of the 19th century, American cheddar cheese was being exported around the world.

Today, cheddar cheese is made in many countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. It is available in a variety of flavors and textures, depending on the age of the cheese and the methods used to produce it.

Aging Cheddar

Cheddar cheese can be aged for varying lengths of time, which results in different flavors and textures. Here are the most common aging ranges for cheddar cheese:

1. Mild Cheddar: Aged for 2-3 months, mild cheddar is a young cheese with a smooth, creamy texture and a mild, slightly tangy flavor.
2. Medium Cheddar: Aged for 4-6 months, medium cheddar has a firmer texture than mild cheddar and a slightly sharper flavor.
3. Sharp Cheddar: Aged for 9-12 months, sharp cheddar has a crumbly texture and a tangy, complex flavor.
4. Extra Sharp Cheddar: Aged for 1-2 years or more, extra sharp cheddar has a very crumbly texture and a very sharp, intense flavor.

In addition to these basic aging ranges, there are also variations on cheddar cheese that are aged for shorter or longer periods of time, or that are aged using different methods or in different environments. For example, some artisanal cheddar cheeses may be aged for several years, resulting in an even sharper flavor and a drier, crumblier texture. 

Characteristics

Cheddar cheese is a hard cheese made from cow’s milk. It has a pale yellow or white color, depending on the age and type of milk used. The texture of cheddar cheese can range from smooth and creamy to crumbly and dry, depending on how long it has been aged. The flavor of cheddar cheese can also vary, from mild and buttery to sharp and tangy.

When tasting cheddar cheese, you may notice flavors of butter, grass, and nuts. The texture can range from creamy and smooth to firm and crumbly.

Tasting Tips

When tasting cheddar cheese, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your cheese-tasting experience:

1. Use a clean palate – Before tasting cheddar cheese, make sure your palate is clean. Avoid eating or drinking anything strong-flavored for at least 30 minutes before tasting. (Note: a nice sparkling champagne or tonic water can also help in a pinch to cleanse the palate if you don’t have the time to wait)
2. Cut the cheese properly – To get the best flavor and texture, make sure you cut your cheddar cheese correctly. Cut it against the grain into thin slices or cubes.
3. Smell the cheese – Take a moment to smell the cheese before tasting it. You may pick up on some of the aromas that will be present in the flavor.
4. Savor the flavor – When tasting cheddar cheese, take your time and savor the flavor. Let the cheese melt on your tongue and pay attention to the different flavors and textures.
5. Pair with complementary flavors – Cheddar cheese pairs well with a variety of flavors, including fruit, nuts, and bread. Try pairing it with some sliced pears, walnuts, or a crusty baguette for a delicious snack or appetizer.
6. When pairing cheese with a wine, taste the wine first. Take a bit of cheese. Then take a second sip of your wine. This will allow you to experience the wine and then the wine and cheese together.

Pairing Cheddar with Wine

Cheddar cheese pairs well with a variety of wines, depending on the age and flavor of the cheese. Here are some general guidelines for pairing cheddar cheese with wine:

1. Mild Cheddar: A young, mild cheddar cheese pairs well with light-bodied, fruity wines such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais. White wines such as Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, or Riesling can also complement the creamy texture of mild cheddar.
2. Medium Cheddar: Aged for a bit longer, medium cheddar pairs well with medium-bodied red wines such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. White wines with a bit more complexity such as Viognier or Chenin Blanc can also be a good match.
3. Sharp Cheddar: Aged for a longer period of time, sharp cheddar pairs well with full-bodied, bold red wines such as Malbec or Zinfandel. Chardonnay and other oaked white wines can also complement the nutty and tangy flavor of sharp cheddar.
4. Extra Sharp Cheddar: A very sharp and intense cheddar pairs well with robust, full-bodied red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah. A dessert wine such as a Port or a Madeira can also be a good match.

Ultimately, the best wine pairing for cheddar cheese depends on your personal preference. Experimentation is encouraged to find which of the pairings really “sings” to you. My favorites are a well-aged cheddar and a richer, more complex red. These pairing can produce flavorful and exciting pairings.

The classic pairing of a medium aged cheddar and Cabernet Sauvignon is a standard on many cheese boards and is generally enjoyed by most everyone.

Conclusion

Cheddar cheese is a versatile and delicious cheese that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re a cheese enthusiast or just starting to explore different types of cheese, cheddar is a great place to start. With its unique flavor profile and wide range of textures, there’s always something new to discover when tasting cheddar cheese.