In a blind taste test of three Sainsbury's cheddar cheeses at different price points, the cheapest option—the Stamford Street block at £2.49—emerged as the surprising winner, scoring a perfect 5/5. The test, conducted by Nicola Roy, compared the budget cheddar against Sainsbury's organic mature cheddar (£3.50 for 270g) and the mid-range mature British cheddar (£2.50 for 220g).
Organic Cheddar: Premium Price, Mixed Results
The most expensive cheese, Sainsbury's SO Organic Mature Cheddar, cost £3.50 for a 270g block. Made by Wyke Farms in Somerset using British organic milk, it had a pleasant sharp smell and a creamy texture with a nice tang. However, it was slightly dry and lacked flavour intensity, earning a rating of 3.5/5. Roy noted no unpleasant aftertaste but said she would buy it again.
Mid-Range Cheddar: Strong but Bitter
The mid-priced Sainsbury's Mature British Cheddar, at £2.50 for 220g, was Roy's least favourite. Despite looking and smelling similar to the others, it had a very strong flavour that lacked balance between tanginess and creaminess, leaving a bitter aftertaste. Roy rated it 3/5, suggesting it might work better in cooked dishes like toasties or macaroni cheese.
Budget Cheddar: Creamy and Delicious
The Stamford Street Cheddar, Sainsbury's budget range, cost just £2.49 for a block nearly double the size of the mid-range option. It sliced cleanly, was the creamiest of the three, and delivered a decent hit of sharpness without any rubbery or plasticky texture. Roy was impressed by its taste and value, giving it a perfect 5/5 rating and recommending it as the best buy.
Conclusion
Roy concluded that the cheapest cheddar was the clear winner, proving that price does not always reflect quality. She advised shoppers to consider the Stamford Street block for its excellent flavour and affordability.
