In the proud tradition of St. Patrick's Day, we are thrilled to present four of our favorite Irish cheeses in this carefully selected assortment. For decades, Irish cheeses were a secret; enjoyed only by our friends "across the pond". Now, we are lucky enough to carry these four cheeses.

• Cashel Blue: This wonderful farmhouse blue cheese hails from Tipperary. Using only fresh cows milk from their fresian herd, Louis and Jane Grubb have produced this masterpiece. Ideal for melting or after dinner with some port. (8 oz.)
• Dubliner tastes of a mature Cheddar, with the sweet aftertaste of Reggiano. Created by the Irish company Kerrygold and named after Ireland's capital city, this cheese shares traits with several well-known cheeses, but the combination creates a flavor that is completely unique. (8 oz.)
• Cahill Farm Cheddar with Porter Ale is a visually intriguing cheese. Mixed with dark porter ale during the cheesemaking process, this cheese has a marbled effect with dark brown veins. Imported from Ireland, it has a surprising meaty flavor and is obviously a perfect match for ale. (8 oz.)
• Our Shamrock Cheddar

• Please note that any item temporarily out of stock will be substituted with a similar item of equal value.

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England is a land well suited to dairy farming. Its territory is relatively flat, thus good for grazing, and it has plenty of rainfall. This country produces over 500 distinct types of cheese, including the four we are featuring in this English Cheese Assortment.

• Denhay Mature Cheddar - Arguably the world's most famous cheese name, Cheddar is an authentic English cheese that has been copied all over the world. If you have never tasted authentic English Farmhouse Cheddar, you are in for a wonderful surprise. (8 oz.)
• Royal Blue Stilton - How could such an assortment not include England's beloved blue cheese? Creamy, tangy and eminently satisfying, our Royal Blue Stilton is perfect as a snacking cheese or as an ingredient. (8 oz.)
• Sage Derby - Don't be afraid of the green! Pulverized sage leaves are mixed with water then added to the curd of Derby cheese to create this striking example of English cheesemaking ingenuity. Mild and herbaceous, Sage Derby is the ultimate party cheese. (8 oz.)
• Cotswold - Also known as "Pub Cheese," Cotswold is the name given to this hearty cheese that combines Double Gloucester with flavorful bits of chive and onion. A harmonious blend of mellow, crumbly cheese and powerful vegetables, Cotswold is a terrific complement to the softer, more mild flavors on your cheese board. (8 0z.)

Assortment includes four 1/2 pound cuts of cheese.

• Please note that any item temporarily out of stock will be substituted with a similar item of equal value.

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Along with their conquering armies, the Romans brought their cheese making expertise to England in the first century AD. But it was not until the sixteenth century when the cheese we know today as cheddar was so named. With such a long history, it's no surprise that cheddar is one of the world's favorite foods. So popular in fact, that almost every cheese-producing nation makes its own version. This assortment contains excellent examples from three continents:

• Denhay Mature English Cheddar: Denhay Cheddar is carefully matured and monitored until it is 11 months old when it is sold as premium West Country Farmhouse Cheddar. (8 oz.)
• Grafton Classic Reserve Cheddar: Grafton Classic Cheddar is an outstanding mature cheddar cheese selected for its pronounced flavor and smooth finish. This two year aged cheese is excellent when accompanied with dried fruits and nuts, crusty breads, and big wines. (8 oz.)
• Great Ocean Road Cheddar: This sharp white cheddar hails from Australia, where it is made from pure milk taken from cows that graze on lush pastures swept by winds from the Southern Ocean. (8 oz.)
• Red Leaf Cheddar: This entrant from North America has a firm texture and a sweet, honeyed flavor. Best enjoyed with ale and fruit, this cheddar is aged for over 12 months. (8 oz.)

Please note that any item temporarily out of stock will be substituted with a similar item of equal value.

Just thinking about this assortment of four half-pound cuts of wonderful Dutch cheeses makes our mouths water. The Dutch are world famous for their cheesemaking prowess and these selections will show you why.

• Extra Aged Gouda: Ripened for a full 18 months to develop a nutty, caramel-like flavor, this is the Gouda the Dutch keep for themselves! It is always a crowd pleaser.
• Leyden: Dotted with cumin seeds, it is the rye bread of the cheese world. Wonderfully firm texture.
• Dorothea: A real specialty and an igourmet.com exclusive, this wonderful goat's milk cheese flavored with potato skins and basil oil will send your taste buds into fits of pleasure! Even people who claim to dislike goat cheeses love this one.
• Maasdam: Originally created in Norway, then perfected in Holland, Maasdam is Dutch for baby swiss. This cheese offers a sweet, nutty flavor with a wonderfully tangy aftertaste.

This assortment ships with one half-pound of each cheese selection.

Please note that any item temporarily out of stock will be substituted with a similar item of equal value.

This item is not packaged as a gift. If you would like the gift packaged version of this item please click here.

This sampler features four cheeses that are typical of four distinct regions of Italy:

• Provolone Piccante - The piccante (sharp) version of this classic Italian cheese is more complex and great on sandwiches or chunked. (8 oz.)
• Grana Padano Stravecchio - The original hard Italian cheese, Grana Padano is a firm, dry, fruity cheese from the Po Valley of Northern Italy. Stravecchio is aged for an optimal 20 months. Grate it over pasta, vegetables or soup, or serve it as a table cheese drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. (8 oz.)
• Mountain Gorgonzola - Italy's famous blue cheese comes from Lombardy. Made from cow's milk taken from local herds that graze on beautiful rolling pastures, no Italian Cheese Assortment would be complete without a cut of authentic Gorgonzola. (8 oz.)
• Pecorino Toscano - This soft, sheep's milk cheese is made in the hills of Tuscany. It is young, sweet and springy. We find that this combination well represents the wide variety of flavors and textures found in Italian cheeses. (8 oz.)

• Please note that any item temporarily out of stock will be substituted with a similar item of equal value.

This item is not packaged as a gift. If you would like the gift packaged version of this item please click here.

Every Taste Value just $5.99 per pound (regular price $6.99).

The first truly new and unique fruit to be discovered since the kiwi in the 1970's, Peppadew is not only rich in flavor but also has great nutritional benefits. Whole sweet piquante peppers from South Africa's northern provinces are blended with a secret recipe that makes every juicy mouthful simply unforgettable. Quite unlike anything we've ever eaten, this unusually tasty treat is delicious served with almost anything. We especially love it with a simple goat cheese salad. Available in mild and hot for those who like their peppers with a little more heat.

Varieties sold separately.

Raclette is made in the Alps on both sides of the French-Swiss border. Eaten as a table cheese, Raclette has a smooth, creamy taste that is neither too salty nor sharp. This cheese is traditionally melted (a half wheel is placed in a firepl ace, then the melted top surface is continuously scraped off) and layered atop boiled potatoes, pickles, fresh vegetables and sliced meats.

Every Taste Value just $5.99 per pound (regular price $6.99).

The first truly new and unique fruit to be discovered since the kiwi in the 1970's, Peppadew is not only rich in flavor but also has great nutritional benefits. Whole sweet piquante peppers from South Africa's northern provinces are blended with a secret recipe that makes every juicy mouthful simply unforgettable. Quite unlike anything we've ever eaten, this unusually tasty treat is delicious served with almost anything. We especially love it with a simple goat cheese salad. Available in mild and hot for those who like their peppers with a little more heat.

Varieties sold separately.

One of France's classics. Made in the Alps in gigantic 80-pound wheels. Very versatile.

Until the 19th Century this perennial favorite was known as Valais. Taking its modern name from the French verb racler (to scrape), Raclette is now one of the most popular mountain cheeses worldwide. Made from whole, unpasteurized cow's milk, this raclette is typically aged three to four months. Smoother than gruyere, Raclette has a creamy and supple texture with fruity undertones that intensify when melted. A little firmer than its French counterpart, our Swiss Raclette is great served with Bunderfleisch or cured ham. Traditionally served with kirsch or beer.

• Made from unpasteurized cow's milk.
• Photo depicts half of a 10 lb. wheel.
• We cut and wrap this item by the pound.
• Please contact us if you would like to purchase the whole form.

Gouda Goat has a delicate, citrus tanginess and a firm but creamy texture.

Imported from Brittany, France, these caramels are seductive buttery treats made from whole milk, natural butter and authentic fleur de sel (special sea salt). Rich in minerals and low in sodium, they are a healthy indulgence that please both young and old. Each caramel is individually wrapped and hand packed in an attractive round, wooden box. Ideal as a hostess gift, party favor or personal reward, these sweets are the crème de la crème of the candy world.

Long known as "The King of Cheeses", Blue Stilton is one of a handful of British cheeses granted the status of a "protected designation origin" (PDO) by the European Commission. Only cheese produced in the three counties of Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire and made according to a strict code may be called Stilton. There are just six dairies licensed to make Stilton, each being subject to regular audit by an independent inspection agency accredited to European Standard EN 45011.

To be called Stilton, a cheese must:

• be made only in the three counties from local milk which is pasteurized before use.
• be made only in a traditional cylindrical shape.
• be allowed to form its own crust or coat.
• be un-pressed.
• have delicate blue veins radiating from the center.
• have a taste profile typical of Stilton.

Made by the Long Clawson dairy, this product is perfect for snacking and as a part of the cheese course, but also is a wonderful cheese for salads and cooking.

• Made from pasteurized cow's milk.
• Photo depicts whole 8 lb. form of cheese.
• We cut and wrap this item by the 1/2 pound.
• Please contact us if you would like to purchase the whole form.

Maytag blue cheese is a cow's milk cheese produced in small volumes in Newton, Iowa.It has a crumbly texture and a very spicy flavor.Nestled in among the rolling hills of central Iowa is the Maytag appliance factory. Down the road and arou nd the corner is the Maytag Dairy, which produces Maytag Blue cheese, among other, lesser-known cheeses. Yes, the two are related.

Eighteen pound logs of Smoked Gouda are produced in Holland in some of the world's most modern, computerized dairy plants. Yet, the cheese is still smoked in ancient brick ovens over smoldering hickory chip embers. Available natural or flavored, this cylindrically shaped cheese is perfect for impromptu picnics, party platters or midnight snacks. Note: the brown, smoky rind is not only edible, it's the best part of the cheese!

• Made from pasteurized cow's milk.
• Photo depicts whole 6 lb. form of cheese.
• We cut and wrap this item by the pound.
• Please contact us if you would like to purchase the whole form.

Varieties sold separately.

Royal George cheese is named after the founder of the cheesemakers' English dairy. It was in 1957 that George Kenyon started to make his traditional English cheeses in the ancient market town of Garstang, where the ruins of the royalist Greenhalgh Castle (c1490) stand.

The sons of George, Neil and John, have since been producing Kosher cheese for the UK market and are now the leading UK Kosher cheese producers under the Chevington label. Royal George cheeses are the first ever English cheeses to be certified Kosher by the O.U. and the varieties available are Cheddar, Red Leicester and Double Gloucester.

The cheese is Cholov Yisroael and is suitable for Passover. It is made to the very highest of standards to be delicious and flavorsome and was available at Kosherfest 2004 for us to sample for the first time. The launch of Royal George label at Kosherfest is the event of the year for this English Cheesemaker.

The adjective "double" refers to the fact that the traditional recipe for the cheese relies upon the milk from both morning and evening milkings. Double Gloucester has a flavor somewhere between Cheshire and Aged Cheddar. It has a hard, close, satiny texture and a pronounced but mellow taste that holds up well in cooking.

• Made from cow's milk.
• Kosher for Passover by the O.U.
• Photo depicts whole 7.1 oz. form of cheese.

A spicy, yet savory cheese. The Italian choice for cheese. Used as a grating cheese for all pasta dishes or can just be served as an antipasto with bread and olives.

Ekte Gjetost is a sweet, brown, firm cheese, made solely from pure goat's milk which is boiled under pressure until caramelization occurs. Stronger than regular Gjetost, it is widely popular among Scandinavians. Children especially enjoy its sweet flavor and fudge-like texture. Traditionally, this cheese is cut into very thin slices and eaten at breakfast with toast or crispbread.

• Made from pasteurized goat's milk.
• Photo depicts whole 17.5 ounce form of cheese.

Taking its name from the symbol of the Welsh flag, Red Dragon is a blended Cheddar with mustard seeds and Welsh ale, and is coated in a bright red wax. This cow's milk cheese from Wales combines the subtle sharpness and depth of natural mus tard with the moist, tanginess added by the brown ale. Taking its name from the symbol of the Welsh flag, Red Dragon is a blended Cheddar with mustard seeds and Welsh ale, and is coated in a bright red wax.

Midnight Moon is a new cheese created by Cypress Grove Chevre of Arcata, California. It's a goat's milk cheese that is aged for at least one year. Midnight Moon has a warm, nutty flavor with hints of caramel. This cheese won the NASFT award for "Outstanding New Product" in 2002. Encased in black wax, it makes quite a presentation and is an excellent choice if you are entertaining.

• Made from pasteurized goat's milk.
• Whole form is 10 lbs.
• We cut and wrap this item by the 1/2 pound.
• Please contact us if you would like to purchase the whole form.

Cotswold Double Gloucester with onions and chives. Cotswold, a region in South Western England, has a smooth cheddar like texture with the flavors of onions and chives. This is a great cheese served with a rustic bread and ale.

For centuries, Clotted Cream has been an essential element in a great British tradition -- High Tea. Spoon it over fresh scones or tea cakes already spread with strawberry jam, accompanied by a pot of piping hot tea. With a butterfat content of 55%, Clotted Cream has a supple, buttery flavor that is not overpowered by the flavor of the jam. Made in a traditional manner, Clotted Cream from Devonshire is a natural and delicious source of Riboflavin, Folic Acid, Vitamins A, B12 and D, Calcium, Magnesium, Phosphorus and Zinc. Available for the first time in the United States, we know you will you enjoy our Clotted Cream.Must be consumed within 5 days after opening

The Dutch Masterpiece is here at last! Made in Holland from local pasteurized cow's milk and imported Italian cultures, gold medal winner Old Amsterdam tastes like a young Parmigiano-Reggiano crossed with an Aged Dutch Gouda. It is well-known for its rich, nutty, robust flavor and firm texture; both the result of it being perfectly matured for over twelve months. Excellent in salads, shredded over soups or chili, and on sandwiches, hot or cold. Old Amsterdam is perfect with a glass of fine wine or port.

• Made from pasteurized cow's milk.
• Photo depicts whole 12 lb. form of cheese.
• We cut and wrap this item by the 1/2 pound.
• Please contact us if you would like to purchase the whole form.

This Norwegian cheese is made from a mixture of cow and goat's milk. It has an unusual, sweet flavor due to the way in which it is processed. The milk is cooked until the sugars in it have caramelized, giving the cheese its distinctive brown color and sweet flavor. The milk is then curded and pressed. The cheese became popular as a skiers' snack and thus the label on the whole cheese is emblazoned with the words Ski Queen. It is widely popular among Scandinavians, and children in the United States are drawn to its sweet flavor.

• Made from pasteurized cow and goat's milk.
• Photo depicts whole 5.5 lb. form of cheese.
• We cut and wrap this item by the 1/2 pound.
• Please contact us if you would like to purchase the whole form.

Switzerland Cave-Aged Gruyere One of the most essential ingredients to fondue is Swiss Gruyere. It is everything Emmentaler wishes it were. The Swiss-style Gruyere tends to be sweeter than the French version produced in the Jura mountains and have 2x the flavor of Emmentaler. Choose Gruyere for gratins, soups, grilled cheese sandwiches and of course fondue. Can also be paired with red Burgundies, Rhone Reds, and Alsatian Reds. Perishable Product Expedited Shipping Suggested.

The name Raclette means 'scraper' and refers to a group of gourmet cheeses which are melted to make a traditional Swiss dish of the same name. These are mountain cheeses made originally in the Vallais region but are now produced throughout Switzerland. Although the French also produce a fine Raclette, we believe that the traditional Swiss Raclette cheese is superior and demanding of your selection. The texture of the Raclette is very smooth and it seems to melt in the mouth even without heating. The aroma is strongly reminiscent of the farm with a mixture of fruit and wine aromas. The taste is usually equally strong, with rich wine-like notes, and a tangy accent. We have 3 sizes, a half wheel, a quarter wheel or individual 8-oz pieces.

Tome De Savoie Savoie, gray rind, rustic look, nutty flavor. One of the classics. "Lait Cru."

Cabot Clothbound Cheddar Cheese is produced from milk at one of Cabot's premier dairy farms and is sent at three days young to the Cellars at Jasper Hill, an integrated platform for Vermont cheeses to be matured, marketed and shipped to customers across the country. The 'cloth' or 'bandage' is a traditional method developed in England for their farmhouse cheddars. The green cheese, meaning just produced, is rubbed with lard (Crisco style) and wrapped with several layers of cloth (think cheese cloth) prior to being matured in the cellar. The cloth performs two functions: first, it creates a skin on the surface of the cheese that allows it to breathe which quickens the ripening process and develops a more dynamic flavor profile.

Originating in Wisconsin, Colby is prized for its mellow flavor and moist texture. Its soft, melt-in-your-mouth goodness makes it the perfect companion for sandwiches and salads. And for snacking, it simply can't be beat. Net wt. 3 lb.

Made from raw sheep's milk, Moliterno Black Truffle Pecorino cheese differs from other truffle cheese in that the truffles and truffle paste are added after the cheese has aged. This allows the cheese to develop its own character prior to the introduction of the truffles. This is a delicious cheese for any truffle lover and makes a wonderful visual presentation.