Pairing Chocolate and Aged Cheddar
“The Cadillac of Cheddar Cheeses”
Aged cheddar cheese, also known as vintage cheddar or mature cheddar, originates from the village of Cheddar in Somerset, southwest England. Named after its place of origin, this cheese has a history that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is traditionally produced within 30 miles of Wells Cathedral, and the cheesemaking process involves a technique known as cheddaring, which helps the cheese maintain its density and acidity..
Aged cheddar cheese is available in various ages, starting from six months. For instance, aged cheddar is aged a minimum of six months, sharp cheddar is aged a minimum of nine months, and extra sharp cheddar is aged at least 12 months.
When it comes to pairing aged cheddar with dark chocolate, the symphony of flavors is nothing short of exquisite, especially when you introduce the complexity of fruit and nut inclusions or the bold kick of chili. The rich, nutty notes of the aged cheddar beautifully complement the deep cocoa richness of dark chocolate. The fruit adds a refreshing contrast that brightens each bite. Meanwhile, the heat from chili-infused chocolate creates an exciting play with the cheese’s creamy texture, enhancing the savory nuances of the cheddar. This pairing not only elevates your tasting experience but also invites you to explore the balance between savory and sweet, making every morsel an adventure for the palate.
Shop our suggested selections below via a "build your own tasting flight" option to host your own chocolate pairing. Please keep in mind, all pairings are subjective person-to-person, and these are mere suggestions to help get you started to find your favorite pairings. We also have posted an aroma wheel so your guests can use it as a guideline to discuss what flavor notes/aromas they are noticing with each pairing. Want to share your initial thoughts or your favorite pairings? Let us know here!
Download WWC's Aroma & Chocolate pairing notes template for hosting your own tasting party
Build-Your-Own Aged Cheddar & Chocolate Pairing Selection
Mix-and-Match our chocolate bar suggestions to build your own pairing flight.