Bushra Griffith
With so many cheeses to choose from, it can be hard to pick a favourite. The World Cheese Awards, one of the highest authorities on cheese, has a panel of experts, buyers, retailers, and food writers who judge thousands of cheeses from around the world. In 2023, Norway's Nidelven Blå, a handmade, semi-solid blue cheese, was crowned the winner. In 2024, a soft, raw ewe's milk cheese from Portugal took the top spot. Other winners include Rogue River Blue from the United States, which was named the world's best cheese in 2025.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Variety | Mozzarella, Blue Cheese, Feta, Cheddar, Provolone, Parmesan, Gouda, Burrata, Graviera Naxou, Saint-Félicien, Queijo Serra da Estrela, Manchego, Pecorino, Comté |
| Taste | Rich, Creamy, Salty, Tangy, Funky, Sharp, Sweet, Savory, Smoky, Nutty, Sour |
| Texture | Soft, Thick, Dry, Chewy, Moist, Firm, Supple, Crumbly, Melty |
| Country of Origin | Italy, Greece, Ireland, France, Spain |
| Milk Type | Buffalo, Cow, Sheep |
| Nutritional Benefits | High Protein, Beneficial Bacteria, Probiotics, High Sodium and Calories |
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What You'll Learn
Mozzarella
Fresh mozzarella is usually sold in balls of varying sizes, ranging from small bocconcini or ciliegine to larger balls of around 80-100 grams. It has a high moisture content and is best served the day after it is made, although it can be kept in brine for up to a week or longer when vacuum-sealed. Fresh mozzarella is known for its distinct squeaky sound when chewed or rubbed. Low-moisture mozzarella has a longer shelf life and is often used for melting on pizzas or in lasagnas.
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Cheddar
Some popular brands of cheddar include Kerrygold, Cracker Barrel, and Cabot, each with its unique characteristics and flavour profiles. Cheddar's broad appeal and availability make it a staple in kitchens and restaurants worldwide, with its distinct sharpness and versatility elevating various dishes.
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Feta
When selecting feta cheese, it is best to choose varieties made from high-quality milk with a crumbly texture and a creamy mouthfeel. High-quality feta should have aromas of ewe's milk, butter, and yoghurt. It is important to store feta properly in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out.
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Sheep's Cheese
Some well-known sheep's cheeses include the Spanish Manchego and Italian pecorino. The aged sheep cheeses of the French Pyrénées are also worth mentioning. These cheeses are firm, smooth, and supple, offering a balance of fatty chew, hints of grass and hay, and a sweet nuttiness. While some may find them boring, others appreciate their subtle complexity.
For those seeking a more intense flavour, the seasonally produced sheep's cheese from Many Fold Farm in England is a treat. This cheese has a dense yet powdery texture and a flavour profile that includes notes of mushroom, garlic, and even strawberry shortcake in the spring wheels, with a lamby aroma in the fall.
Another variety to try is the Italian Pecorino Toscano, a rindless, white, and moist cheese with a tangy walnutty flavour. This cheese has a long history, dating back to Etruscan times, and is typically matured for at least 20 days before being exported.
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Blue Cheese
The process of making blue cheese involves specific steps to encourage the growth of the blue mold. The cheese is typically made from cow's, sheep's, or goat's milk, and the type of milk used contributes to the distinct flavour of each blue cheese. During the maturation process, the cheese is "spiked" with stainless steel rods to let oxygen circulate and encourage the growth of the mold. This process softens the texture and develops the cheese's distinctive blue flavour.
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Frequently asked questions
Sargento’s Swiss cheese is a tasty option for a sandwich. It's earthy, creamy, salty, and has a great dry, chewy texture.
Red Apple Smoked Gouda is a rich, authentic cheese with a campfire smokiness that's perfect for a charcuterie board.
A special occasion calls for a special-occasion sharp cheddar like Kerrygold, which has an electric sharpness and a distinct "milky" flavor.
A quick snack like crackers is best accompanied by a mild cheddar, which is aged for less than a year and has a less sharp flavor than other cheddars.
Mozzarella is a healthy option as it's lower in sodium and calories than most other cheeses, and it also contains bacteria that act as probiotics, which may improve gut health and boost immunity.
