A Beginner’s Guide to British Artisan Cheeses: Flavours, Pairings & How to Choose the Right One

Pong Cheese makes this easy by offering a curated selection of artisanal British favourites, from soft washed-rind cheeses to sharp farmhouse cheddars. This guide breaks down the essentials so you can discover the styles you love and pair them like a pro.

Understanding the Main Types of British Cheeses

Before you choose, it helps to know the broad families of cheese you’ll find across the UK.

Soft Cheeses

Mild, creamy, and easy to pair perfect for beginners.
Examples include soft bloomy-rind cheeses, buttery English bries, or mild washed-rind cheeses.

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Hard Cheeses

From crumbly to sharp, hard cheeses are incredibly versatile.
Aged Cheddar, Red Leicester, and Cheshire-style cheeses fall into this category.

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Blue Cheeses

Blue cheese is bold, but Britain produces some of the world’s best rich, balanced, and not overly salty.
Think creamy Stilton or mellow artisan blues.

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Washed-Rind Cheeses

Washed-rind cheeses have a distinct aroma and deep flavour.
They’re fantastic for people who like something a little funky and rich.

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How to Choose the Right Cheese for Your Taste

Everyone’s palate is different, but these tips help narrow down your choices.

If you prefer mild, buttery flavours…

Go for soft brie-style cheeses, delicate blues, or creamy washed-rind options.

If you like something sharp and punchy…

Choose mature cheddar, aged gouda-style British cheeses, or crumbly saltier varieties.

If you love bold and earthy tastes…

Try washed-rind cheeses or strong blue cheeses.

If you want something snack-friendly and light…

Look for mild hard cheeses, soft logs, or spreadable styles.

Perfect Cheese Pairings for Beginners

Pairing isn’t complicated you’re simply balancing flavours.

Bread & Crackers

Neutral crackers let the cheese shine.
Heartier bread works well with stronger flavours.

Honey & Chutneys

A drizzle of honey softens blue cheese beautifully.
Chutneys pair well with cheddar and aged cheeses.

Fresh Fruit

Grapes, pears, figs, and apples add natural sweetness that balances saltiness.

Wine & Drinks

• Soft cheeses: Champagne, cider, crisp whites

• Hard cheeses: Red wine, IPA beers

• Blue cheeses: Port or sweet dessert wines

• Washed-rind cheeses: Earthy reds or farmhouse ales

How to Build a Simple British Cheeseboard

A great cheeseboard doesn’t need to be complicated. Follow the 3–3–3 rule:

• 3 types of cheese: soft, hard, blue

• 3 sides: chutney, fruit, nuts

• 3 textures: creamy, crumbly, firm

Arrange from mild to strong so people can explore gradually.

Why Buy Artisan Cheese Instead of Supermarket Cheese?

Artisan cheeses stand out because:

• They’re handmade in small batches

• Flavours are richer, more complex

• The quality of milk is higher

• Producers follow traditional aging methods

• You support local and heritage farms

Pong Cheese brings these producers together in one place, making artisan cheese accessible even if you’re just starting out.

Final Thoughts

Getting into artisan cheese is easier than it looks and once you start exploring, it becomes something you genuinely look forward to. Whether you enjoy mild and creamy flavours or bold and punchy varieties, British cheesemakers offer a world of options that suit every preference.

If you want to explore further, Pong Cheese carries a wide selection of British artisanal cheeses that fit beginners, enthusiasts, and gift-givers alike.