Bushra Griffith
Cheddar is one of the world's most popular cheeses, with origins in the village of Cheddar in Somerset, England. While the bright orange, semi-hard variety is the most common, there are many other types of cheddar, including clothbound and aged cheddars, which have more complex flavours. Aged cheddars, also known as mature cheddars, have a sharper, more intense flavour, and a crumbly texture. So, what are the best drinks to pair with this variety of cheddar?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of drink | Wine, beer, spirits |
| Wine | Bold Cabernet Sauvignon, oaked Chardonnay, Cape White blends, South African old vine Chenin Blanc, bual or malmsey madeira, Rioja |
| Beer | Hoppy India Pale Ale (IPA) |
| Spirits | Rye whiskey, bourbon |
| Cider | Hard English cider |
| Other | Sliced apples, honey, jam |
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What You'll Learn
Wines: from oaked chardonnay to California zins
When it comes to wine, the ideal pairing for cheddar depends on the cheese's maturity. Aged cheddars, also known as mature cheddars, develop a sharper, more complex flavour as they age, with flavours ranging from nutty and earthy to bold and tangy, and sometimes even a hint of sweetness.
A bold Cabernet Sauvignon is a good match for mature cheddars. This red wine is known for its high tannin content and dark fruit flavours. The tannins in the wine complement the bite of the cheese, while the ripe blackcurrant and plum notes balance out the intensity of the cheddar. A California Cabernet Sauvignon, such as the Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon, is an excellent choice, as its rich fruit and subtle oak flavours make it a good match for sharp cheddar.
California zinfandels, or "zins", are another great pairing with a wide range of cheddars, especially the English Farmhouse variety. Ripe and juicy, this wine can stand up to the strong flavour of cheddar without being overpowered.
Oaked chardonnay is another wine that pairs well with cheddar. Its rich flavours can stand up to the boldness of cheddar, creating a complementary third taste sensation.
White wines generally go well with most cheeses, as their acidity prevents a clash of flavours. However, a light-bodied white wine may be overpowered by a strong, aged cheddar.
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Cider: specifically, hard English cider
When it comes to drinking something with aged cheddar cheese, there are several options to consider. While wine, beer, and spirits are all popular choices, let's focus specifically on cider, and more precisely, hard English cider.
Cider, especially hard English cider, can be an excellent choice to pair with aged cheddar cheese. The crisp, refreshing quality of cider can help balance the rich, sharp flavours of aged cheddar. Hard English cider, in particular, tends to have a dry, slightly tangy taste that can complement the earthy, nutty, and tangy notes often found in aged cheddars. The carbonation in cider can also provide a pleasant contrast to the creamy, crumbly texture of the cheese.
Montgomery's Cheddar, a renowned British clothbound cheddar made in Somerset, England, is specifically recommended to be paired with hard English cider. The clothbinding process, where the cheese is rubbed with butter or lard and wrapped in muslin, gives Montgomery's Cheddar its distinctive earthy, rustic flavours. The crispness of hard English cider can cut through the richness of this cheese, creating a harmonious pairing.
When selecting a cider to pair with aged cheddar, consider the specific characteristics of the cheese. If the cheddar has strong earthy or nutty flavours, look for a dry, tangy cider to complement those notes. On the other hand, if the cheddar has a slight sweetness, you might opt for a slightly sweeter cider to match. Additionally, consider the intensity of the cheese; a sharper, more robust cheddar might pair better with a fuller-bodied cider.
While cider, especially hard English cider, can be an excellent choice to accompany aged cheddar cheese, it's important to remember that personal preference plays a significant role in these pairings. Some people may prefer a different drink, such as wine, beer, or spirits, to complement the flavours of aged cheddar. Ultimately, the ideal pairing is the one that suits your individual taste and enhances your enjoyment of the cheese.
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Spirits: bourbon, or rye whiskey
When it comes to spirits, bourbon is an excellent choice to pair with aged cheddar cheese. The rich caramel and vanilla notes in bourbon accentuate the nuttiness and sharpness of the cheese. The warmth and oak flavours from the barrel ageing of the bourbon enhance the complexity of the aged cheddar. For a specific bourbon recommendation, consider Buffalo Trace Bourbon, a smooth and well-rounded bourbon with hints of vanilla, caramel, and oak that provide the perfect backdrop to the cheese's depth.
Rye whiskey is another spirit that pairs well with cheddar cheese. This pairing is especially recommended for goat's milk clothbound cheddars, which have unique flavours of toasted almond, horseradish, and preserved lemon. The distinct flavour profile of this type of cheddar is complemented by the rye whiskey.
When enjoying aged cheddar with spirits like bourbon or rye whiskey, it is recommended to let the cheese come to room temperature before serving. This allows the complex flavours of the cheese to fully develop and provides a more nuanced tasting experience. Whether served on its own, as part of a cheese board, or with complementary foods like slices of apple, pear, or a drizzle of honey, aged cheddar can be savoured and appreciated with each sip of bourbon or rye whiskey.
Additionally, the versatility of cheddar extends beyond spirits, as it also pairs well with bold wines, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon, and hoppy beers, like an IPA (India Pale Ale). The bitterness of the hops in an IPA can cut through the richness of the cheese, while the malty undertones bring out its nutty flavours.
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Beer: hoppy IPAs (India Pale Ales)
When it comes to aged cheddar, the sharpness and richness of this cheese variety pair beautifully with a bold Cabernet Sauvignon, a red wine known for its high tannin content and dark fruit flavours. However, for beer lovers, a hoppy IPA (India Pale Ale) works wonders.
The bitterness of the hops in an IPA cuts through the richness of the aged cheddar, creating a delightful contrast. At the same time, the malty undertones of the beer bring out the nutty flavours of the cheese, resulting in a harmonious combination. This pairing is especially enjoyable when the cheese is allowed to reach room temperature, as it enhances the sensory experience and allows the complex flavours of the aged cheddar to fully develop.
The key to a successful pairing with aged cheddar is to find a beverage that can stand up to its bold and intense characteristics. IPAs, with their robust flavours and bitterness, offer a refreshing balance to the richness of the cheese. The hoppy notes in these beers provide a pleasant contrast to the creamy, nutty, and sharp attributes of the aged cheddar.
When selecting an IPA to pair with aged cheddar, look for options with prominent hop characteristics. The bitterness from the hops will help cut through the richness of the cheese. Additionally, IPAs with a solid malt backbone will enhance the nutty flavours often found in aged cheddars.
In summary, for beer enthusiasts, a hoppy IPA is an excellent choice to accompany aged cheddar. The interplay of flavours and textures between the two creates a delightful sensory experience. As with any pairing, personal preference plays a significant role, so feel free to experiment and find the combination that suits your taste buds the best.
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Non-alcoholic: apple slices, or honey
While some may argue that aged cheddar is best enjoyed on its own, there are a few non-alcoholic options that can complement its sharp and rich flavour. Here are some ideas:
Apple Slices: Apples are a classic pairing with cheddar cheese, especially crisp, tart apple varieties. The sweetness and acidity of the apples can help balance the sharpness of the aged cheddar, creating a delightful contrast of flavours.
Pears: Much like apples, pears can also provide a sweet and juicy contrast to the savoury, sharp notes of aged cheddar.
Honey: A drizzle of honey can be an excellent addition to aged cheddar. Look for unique varieties, such as tamarind or tomato honey, to really elevate the cheese. The sweetness of the honey will balance the sharpness of the cheese, and its viscosity can also provide an interesting textural contrast.
Crackers: While not a drink, crackers are worth mentioning as they are a popular choice to enjoy with cheese. A simple, salted water cracker can add a crunchy texture and a bit of seasoning to complement the cheese without overwhelming its flavour. Alternatively, a high-quality sourdough bread can also be a great base for aged cheddar, such as in a grilled cheese sandwich.
Room Temperature: To truly appreciate the complex flavours of aged cheddar, it is recommended to let it come to room temperature before serving. This allows the cheese to soften slightly and for its flavours to fully emerge, ensuring you experience all the nuances as it melts in your mouth.
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Frequently asked questions
Aged cheddar cheese is known for its complex, sharp, rich, and nutty flavours. Some good drink pairings include:
- Bold wines such as a Cabernet Sauvignon, known for its high tannin content and dark fruit flavours
- Hoppy beers such as an IPA (India Pale Ale)
- Smooth bourbons such as Buffalo Trace Bourbon, with its rich caramel and vanilla notes
- Hard English cider
- Rye whiskey
Aged cheddar cheese can be enjoyed on its own or with some apple slices, slices of meat, or crackers. It can also be grated over polenta or used in a grilled cheese sandwich.
Aged cheddar cheese is a semi-hard cheese that is traditionally crafted from cow's milk. Its distinct crumbly texture and sharp, complex flavour are a result of the "cheddaring" process, where the curd is repeatedly stacked, pressed, and cut. The cheese is then aged for several months to several years, developing a more crumbly and granular texture, and a sharper, tangier flavour.
