TILLAMOOK, ORE. – Tillamook County Creamery Association added two aged cheddars to its Maker’s Reserve portfolio, with vintages from 2013 and 2020 now available.

Tillamook releases 10-year and three-year aged extra sharp white cheddar every year as part of its reserve program.

The farmer-owned cooperative describes its 2013 cheddar as having hints of sweet cream and rich buttery brioche, plus notes of toasted nuts. Tillamook shared that the 10-year vintage cheese has a flaky texture. It recommends pairing the product with porter beer, champagne, fruit spritz, fresh strawberries and grilled vegetables.

The reserve from 2020, meanwhile, includes “an herbaceous, rich creamy aroma,” per the cooperative, with notes of wild mushrooms and dark bread. The texture is described as smooth and rich by Tillamook, which suggested pairing the three-year cheddar with lagers or sparkling drinks such as prosecco or sparkling apple juice, and candied hazelnuts and prosciutto.

"Our Maker's Reserve cheddars reflect an outstanding recipe, unusually good ingredients and, of course, the all-important factor – time,” said Jill Allen, director of product excellence.

Allen leads Tillamook’s sensory tasting team, which identifies flavors, textures and aromas for the special line of vintage cheeses. The cooperative shared that she creates flavor maps for the Maker’s Reserve products and works with Tillamook’s chef to develop food and beverage pairing recommendations for the vintage cheeses.

"It is truly a special cheddar that ages and transforms into a unique tasting experience,” Allen said. “Just as special as these vintages are the people making them – a team that uses pride, passion and patience to produce award-winning cheeses with an unforgettable flavor, year after year."

Both the 2013 and 2020 cheddars are being sold online through Tillamook’s shop. The farmer-owned cooperative also will sell the 2013 vintage exclusively at Whole Foods Market locations beginning in February.

Photo: Tillamook County Creamery Association