BARBERS WEST COUNTRY MATURE CHEDDAR BLACK WAX 900G

Barbers West Country Maryland Black Wax is a mature cheddar cheese made by Barber's Dairy, the world's oldest surviving cheddar maker, at Maryland Farm here in Somerset. The cheese is aged for at least 12 months and coated in black wax, and it has PDO status for being an authentic West Country Farmhouse Cheddar. Aged for around 12 months, it's less intense than the 1833 vintage cheddar but still full of flavour and character.

What to drink with Barbers Cheddars; Our Newt Cider: This is a classic, regionally appropriate pairing, as both cheddar and cider are West Country specialties. Dry ciders can cut through the cheese's richness, while sweeter varieties offer a pleasant contrast to its tanginess.

One of our Cheddar Gorge Ales, or a IPA (India Pale Ale): The bitterness of the hops provides a great contrast to the sharp, rich flavor of the cheddar, and the carbonation helps cleanse the palate. Our Exmoor Stout or Porter: The malty, sometimes chocolatey or coffee notes of a stout or porter complement the nutty, caramel undertones that can develop in aged cheddar.

Wine: Red Wine: Our Full-bodied reds like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec work well, as their tannins can stand up to the strong flavour of the cheese.

For White Wine Drinkers, a full-bodied Chardonnay or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc can pair nicely; the acidity in the white wine helps to balance the cheese's fattiness without overpowering it.

Another classic is one of our Port or Madeiras: For an after-dinner treat, a rich, sweet fortified wine like a Late Bottled Vintage Port or a honeyed Madeira offers a delicious contrast to the salty, umami notes of the mature cheddar.