| McCall's Sage Irish Cheddar, produced in Ireland, is made from pasteurized milk of primarily grass-fed cows from family farms under the Sustainable Dairy Assurance Scheme. The grass-rich diet, supported by Ireland's mild climate, enhances the cheese's natural golden color and subtle grassy notes. Made using vegetarian microbial rennet, the cheddar is aged 6-12 months and infused with dried sage and spinach to create a green marbled appearance. It offers a firm, creamy texture with herbal, lactic, and umami flavors. The product is rindless, pasteurized, and designed for a gourmet experience with recommended wine, beer, and food pairings. | |
| Country | Ireland |
| Milk | Cow |
| Rennet | Vegetarian |
| Heat Treatment | Pasteurized |
| Texture Profile | Firm, Dense |
| Flavor Profile | Creamy, Herbal, Umami, Grassy |
| Wine Pairings | Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Grüner Veltliner, Sauvignon Blanc |
| Beer Pairings: | Irish Ale, Irish Stout, Pale Ale |
| Food Pairings: | Fresh Fruits, Breads, Nuts and Spreads, Pasta, Shepherd's Pie, Grilled Cheese |
In which country is McCall's Sage Irish Cheddar produced?
Ireland
What geographic factor most directly contributes to the quality of Irish Cheddar milk?
Long grass-growing season due to mild climate
How does the Sustainable Dairy Assurance Scheme (SDAS) promote sustainability in McCall's supply chain?
By requiring carbon footprint, water use, and biodiversity audits
What type of farms primarily supply the milk for McCall’s Irish Cheddar?
Family-owned farms
Which effect does a grass-based bovine diet have on McCall’s Irish Cheddar?
Fresh Irish grass affects both flavor notes and cheese coloration
Which animal's milk is used for McCall's Sage Irish Cheddar?
Cow's milk
How does the grass-fed diet of Irish cows impact the milk used in McCall’s Cheddar?
It has more beta-carotene, producing a natural golden color
Which breed is the main contributor to the volume and protein for McCall’s Irish Cheddar?
Holstein Friesian
What is a traditional advantage of using milk from Kerry Cows?
Kerry Cow milk is easier to digest
How does the fat-to-protein ratio in McCall’s Sage Irish Cheddar affect its texture?
It leads to a creamy mouthfeel that balances sharp acidity
What type of rennet is used in McCall’s Sage Irish Cheddar?
Microbial rennet
What is the main technical advantage of the microbial rennet selected by McCall’s for use in Sage Irish Cheddar?
It ensures clean flavor and consistency for long-aged cheese
How is the aging environment typically controlled for McCall's Sage Irish Cheddar?
By holding cheese at 12-14°C with 85% humidity
Select the typical aging duration and maturity level for McCall’s Sage variety base.
Infused base cheddar aged 8-10 months
What are the 'cheese crystals' found in mature McCall’s Sage Irish Cheddar?
Calcium lactate crystals
What is the typical moisture content range for Cheddar cheese?
36% - 39%
What is the primary effect of cheddar's low moisture content below 40%?
It inhibits spoilage, increasing shelf life
How is McCall's Sage Irish Cheddar structurally presented?
Rindless, block-style, infused with sage and spinach extract
At which stage is sage introduced into McCall's Sage Cheddar?
During milling and salting, before the curd is pressed
Which best summarizes the main flavors in McCall’s Sage Irish Cheddar?
Lactic foundation, herbal infusion, brothy finish, grassy undertones
How does sage modify the flavor depth of McCall's Cheddar during aging?
Sage interacts with amino acids from aging to provide savory notes
What describes the typical texture of Sage Irish Cheddar by McCall’s?
Firm, dense, smooth, with possible crystals
What culinary property does the protein structure of McCall’s Cheddar provide?
It melts smoothly without greasiness thanks to high protein and fat
Which heat treatment is used for McCall’s Sage Irish Cheddar?
Pasteurized by HTST (high temperature, short time) method
How does pasteurization support both safety and quality in McCall's Cheddar?
Pasteurization eliminates pathogens and enables controlled herb infusion
Which of the following is a true sign of spoilage in Sage Irish Cheddar?
Fuzzy black or grey mold
What textural change is NOT normal in properly stored Sage Irish Cheddar?
Slimy or greasy surface
Which wine is considered the classic pairing for Sage Irish Cheddar?
Chardonnay
Why is Pinot Noir recommended as a wine pairing for McCall’s Sage Cheddar?
Pinot Noir's berry and earthy notes harmonize with herbal cheese flavors
How does Irish Ale enhance a tasting of Sage Irish Cheddar?
Irish Ale mirrors the cheese’s terroir and complements sweet cream notes
In cold presentations, how do fresh apples or pears benefit a cheese board with Sage Cheddar?
Pairing with apples and pears refreshes the palate and contrasts richness
What is one way Sage Irish Cheddar is traditionally used in main dishes?
Shepherd’s pie benefits from the herbal and sharp cheese topping
Which statement accurately reflects the founder’s background?
Russell McCall began his cheese career at age 16 in Connecticut
What is a key value at the heart of the McCall’s brand ethos?
Family farms and grass-fed standards are central to McCall’s philosophy
What is the correct pronunciation of 'McCall's'?
/muh-KAWLZ/
McCall''s is a cheese brand from Ireland, renowned for its dedication to sustainable farming and authentic Irish cheese-making. They emphasize using grass-fed milk, ensuring cows graze on lush Irish pastures, resulting in rich and flavorful cheeses. Beyond simply creating great cheese, McCall''s supports fair trade, clean energy, and community development, reflecting their commitment to ethical practices. This family-run business marries traditional cheese-making methods with modern sustainability, offering products that embody the spirit of Ireland''s green landscapes.
Recipes: https://www.mccallsirish.com/recipes