Finding the best supermarket mature cheddar can be a challenge, given the vast array of options. As a West Country lad from the Somerset borders, I believe cheddar should come from Cheddar. The village boasts England’s largest limestone gorge, and the unique microbiome of its caves is perfect for maturing this famous cheese. But good cheddar can be hard to find, not least because it’s a British kitchen staple often sold as a loss-leader and produced by industrial creameries. The resulting generic block is pleasant enough, but if you want complex flavor, crunchy calcium lactate crystals, and a creamy texture, you’ll need to put in some legwork.
Why Mature Cheddar Varies So Much
Mature cheddar is aged for at least 12 months, but the quality depends on factors like milk source, starter cultures, and aging conditions. Supermarkets often sell cheddar as a loss-leader, meaning they prioritize volume over quality. This leads to a wide range in flavor, texture, and strength. Today’s test group are all labeled mature and mostly carry a strength rating of four, though I’ve awarded my own strength scoring as they vary greatly.
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How We Rated the Best Supermarket Mature Cheddar
We blind-tasted over 20 mature cheddars from major UK supermarkets, scoring them on flavor complexity, texture, and value. Each cheese was assessed for sharpness, nuttiness, umami, and crystal content. We also considered price per 100g to determine the best bargain.
| Product | Price | Rating | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| M&S British Mature Cheddar | £4.25 for 550g (77p/100g) | ★★★★☆ | Rich, sharp, creamy, with crystals |
| Sainsbury’s West Country Mature Cheddar | £3.50 for 400g (88p/100g) | ★★★★☆ | Nutty, firm, good value |
| Tesco Finest Mature Cheddar | £4.00 for 350g (£1.14/100g) | ★★★☆☆ | Mild, smooth, less complex |
| Waitrose Essential Mature Cheddar | £3.75 for 400g (94p/100g) | ★★★★☆ | Well-balanced, slightly crumbly |
Top Picks: Best Overall and Best Bargain
Best Overall: M&S British Mature Cheddar
A large, utilitarian block of creamy cheddar made at Taw Valley Creamery in Devon. Rich and sharp, with a clear, lactic-sour twang. Full of umami, with a buttery texture and some crystallisation. Strength rating of four. At 77p per 100g, it offers excellent quality for the price.
Best Bargain: Sainsbury’s West Country Mature Cheddar
This West Country cheddar is nutty and firm, with a satisfying crunch from calcium lactate crystals. It’s slightly less complex than the M&S version but costs just 88p per 100g, making it a great everyday option.
Key Takeaways for Buying Mature Cheddar
- Look for crystals: Calcium lactate crystals indicate proper aging and add a delightful crunch.
- Check the strength rating: Most supermarkets use a 1-5 scale; four or five means mature.
- Consider the source: Cheddar from the West Country, especially Somerset, often has superior flavor.
- Price isn’t everything: Some budget options outperform premium ones.
How to Store and Serve Mature Cheddar
To preserve flavor and texture, wrap cheddar in wax paper or parchment, then place in an airtight container. Let it come to room temperature before serving to fully appreciate its complex flavors. Pair with apples, chutney, or a robust red wine.
FAQ
What is the best supermarket mature cheddar?
Based on our taste test, M&S British Mature Cheddar is the best overall, offering rich, sharp flavor with a creamy texture and crystals at a great price.
How can I tell if cheddar is properly matured?
Look for calcium lactate crystals (tiny crunchy spots) and a complex, sharp flavor. The label should indicate a maturity of at least 12 months.
Is expensive mature cheddar always better?
Not necessarily. Our test found that Sainsbury’s West Country Mature Cheddar, a budget option, scored highly for flavor and value.
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