In a comprehensive blind taste test conducted by the consumer watchdog Which?, supermarket cheddar cheeses were rigorously evaluated, with surprising results that placed a premium own-label product at the top and a well-known brand at the bottom. The study, which involved expert panellists assessing flavour, aroma, appearance, and texture, has shed light on the quality of cheddar available to shoppers across the UK.
Top Performers in the Cheddar Rankings
Waitrose's Davidstow Cornish Mature Cheddar emerged as the clear winner, achieving an impressive overall score of 77%. This cheese, priced at £5.75 for 550g, was praised by tasters for its ideal smoothness, creaminess, and saltiness. According to Which?, two-thirds of participants found the flavour strength perfect, and the same proportion appreciated its crumbliness, making it a standout choice for discerning cheese lovers.
Close Competitors and Value Options
Following closely behind, M&S Cornish Cove Mature Cheddar secured second place with a score of 76%, despite its higher price of £6.50 for 550g. Aldi's Specially Selected West Country Mature Cheddar Cheese rounded out the top three, offering excellent value at £3.39 for 350g and a respectable score of 74%. These results highlight that quality cheddar can be found across different price points, from budget-friendly options to premium selections.
Methodology and Unbiased Findings
The blind taste test was meticulously designed to ensure impartiality, with 64 participants sampling over 7kg of mature cheddar without knowledge of the brands. Flavour accounted for 50% of the overall mark, while smell made up 20%, and visual appeal and texture each contributed 15%. This rigorous approach guaranteed that the rankings were based solely on sensory experience, free from brand bias or preconceptions.
Disappointing Results for Major Brands
Interestingly, none of the major cheese brands topped the table. Castello and Davidstow were noted as the best among the runners-up, but Cathedral City was identified as the least enjoyed cheddar, with Pilgrims Choice sharing the joint-bottom position. This revelation may prompt consumers to reconsider their cheese purchases, as own-label products from supermarkets like Waitrose and Aldi outperformed established names in terms of taste and quality.
The findings underscore the importance of blind testing in evaluating food products, as it removes the influence of marketing and packaging. For shoppers, this means that exploring supermarket own-brand cheddars could lead to better culinary experiences, whether for sandwiches, pasta bakes, or cheese toasties. As cheddar remains a staple in British households, this study offers valuable insights for making informed choices at the cheese counter.
