Unless you live close to a capital city in Australia, chances are that you won’t have a specialty cheese shop near you. And if you’ve landed here, you probably shop for cheese at your local supermarket. In this post, we will help you navigate the overwhelming world of cheese self-selection. Read on to discover the best cheeses you can buy from Woolworths supermarkets in Australia.
SEE ALSO: The Cheese Scientist’s ultimate list of the best cheese shops in Melbourne →
What is Woolworths?
Woolworths Supermarkets is an Australian chain of supermarkets and grocery stores owned by Woolworths Group. It was founded in 1924 and today is Australia’s biggest supermarket chain with a market share of 33% as of 2019.
In 1960, Woolworths began to develop what we now know as purpose-built supermarkets. Under one roof – with adjacent parking – customers could access a range of food and variety goods at value prices.
Should you buy cheese from a supermarket?
Purchasing cheese from a supermarket like Woolworths has its pros and cons. On the positive side, supermarkets offer convenience, accessibility and a vast range of cheese options under one roof. Additionally, you can explore a variety of cheeses from different regions and countries, allowing you to broaden your cheese horizons.
However, some discerning cheese lovers may argue that specialty cheese shops offer a more personalized and expert experience, with knowledgeable staff and a greater emphasis on artisanal and unique varieties.
In addition to this, specialty cheese shops tend to have better storage conditions for their cheese. This is particularly relevant when you consider the damage that light oxidation can do to cheese.
But chances are that you may not have access to a specialty cheese shop near you. So, like most Australians, you probably get your cheese supplies from your local supermarket.
Top cheeses you can buy from Woolworths
Self-selecting cheese from a vast cabinet display can sometimes be overwhelming. So, we’ve taken the awkward out of the process for you. Let’s delve into our list of the best artisanal cheeses you can buy from your local Woolies supermarket.
1. Zanetti Parmigiano Reggiano 30-months (Italy)
Immerse yourself in a flavour sensation as you savour the richness and boldness of this meticulously aged Parmigiano Reggiano. With a minimum aging period of 30 months, it reaches its peak maturity, delivering a sublime taste experience.
Whether grated over pasta, risotto or soups, Zanetti Parmigiano Reggiano provides a perfect bold finish, elevating every dish to new heights. For a delightful standalone indulgence, pair it with fruit compotes and the exquisite Aged Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, allowing the complex flavours to intertwine and dance on your palate.
2. La Casa Del Formaggio Fresh Mozzarella (Australia)
Elevate your culinary creations with the delicate perfection of Fresh Mozzarella. While you can certainly melt this fresh ball of Mozzarella on a pizza or lasagne, we’ve got an even better proposition for you.
Without a doubt, this pasta filata is best eaten fresh and raw. So, you will want to serve it in a Caprese salad with tomatoes and basil. Or torn and mixed into any fresh green salad.
3. Mifroma Le Gruyère 6-months (Switzerland)
While you may be able to get a more mature and complex Gruyère from a specialty cheese shop, this 6-month version is still an exceptional all-rounder. This Swiss gem boasts a fragrant aroma, distinctive buttery notes and caramel undertones.
Undoubtedly, it adds sophistication to cheeseboards and excels in various cooking applications. Moreover, you can pair this raw milk cheese with a medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or Viognier to elevate the flavour experience.
4. Thomas Dux Creamy Blue Cheese (Denmark)
The first blue cheese on our list is the mild Thomas Dux Creamy Blue Cheese. Expertly crafted in Denmark, this blue-veined delight offers a mildly spicy flavour and velvety texture.
Perfect for grazing platters, you can pair this subtle and creamy blue cheese with crackers, fresh figs or apricots for a delightful contrast of flavours. Certainly, this Danish cheese is the ultimate gateway for blue-hesitant cheese lovers.
5. Meredith Dairy Goat Cheese (Australia)
Crafted with care using the finest ingredients, this marinated goat cheese embodies the dedication of Meredith Dairy and supports local producers. Treat yourself to the satisfaction of supporting Australian artisans and savour the delightful experience of this exquisite cheese.
This Australian-made cheese is a versatile and delicious option for snacks or enhancing any dish. Its creamy texture and irresistible taste effortlessly elevate salads, sandwiches, pastas and pizzas.
6. Thomas Dux West Country Farmhouse Cheddar 12-months (United Kingdom)
There’s Cheddar. And then there’s West Country Farmhouse Cheddar. Woolworths stock a wide range of Cheddars with different maturation periods. Indeed, you can get 18-months and 24-months versions of the world’s most popular cheese.
But they all pale in comparison to Thomas Dux’s Vintage Cheddar—a 12-months matured masterpiece boasting a bold, creamy finish and intense flavour. This handcrafted West Country Farmhouse Cheddar will delight with its characteristic tanginess, making it a family favourite.
7. Dodoni Greek Feta PDO (Greece)
In Australia, you can buy Feta or Fetta. The name with two T’s can be used to describe white brined cheese made in countries like Hungary, Denmark and Australia. But Feta is a protected name that can only be used for Greek cheeses.
Experience the authentic taste of Greece with Dodoni’s PDO Greek Feta. Crafted from pasteurised sheep’s and goat’s milk, this culinary treasure embodies the rich and tangy flavours of its origin. Indulge in the essence of Greece with this exceptional cheese, meticulously made with pride in Greece.
8. Alambra Traditional Halloumi (Cyprus)
While we’re in the region, let’s take a quite detour via Cyprus. Experience the authentic flavours of Alambra Traditional Halloumi, a Cypriot cheese perfect for grilling, frying and barbecuing.
With its distinctive taste and texture, this traditional brine cheese will take your culinary creations to new heights. Thanks to its reduced saltiness and delightful squeak, this cow, goat and sheep milk cheese is indeed the real deal!
9. Igor Gorgonzola Dolce (Italy)
Next, we have another mild blue cheese. Indulge in the irresistible charm of Igor Gorgonzola Dolce, a cheese that has been delighting taste buds since 1935. Crafted with utmost care and dedication, this Italian delicacy is made from 100% fresh milk, ensuring a fresh and healthy experience.
Experience the rich and creamy texture that melts in your mouth, leaving behind a delectable flavour that lingers. The young Gorgonzola cheese excels on a cheese board and as an ingredient in various recipes.
10. Will Studd Brillat Savarin (France)
French soft white mould cheeses do not get much more decadent than the triple cream delight Brillat Savarin. Named after a famous French gastronome, this cheese is known for its creamy richness and delicate flavour.
For the Australian market, Will Studd has selected an affiné (aged) version of Brillat Savarin that has a delicate wrinkly Geotrichum rind. As a result, this cheese offers a velvety texture and buttery notes that elevate any cheese experience.
11. Mon Père Brie (France)
Unlike Feta, Brie is not a protected name in Australia. So, you will find a number of soft white mould cheeses from all around the world carrying this name. If you want to experience the real Brie, you will have to go to Europe and seek out Brie de Meaux or Brie de Melun.
But if you don’t have a European holiday in your plans, you can still find a decent pasteurised milk version at your local supermarket. Mon Père Brie is a commercial cheese that is made using the classic Brie recipe and pasteurised milk. With its subtle earthy flavour and creamy texture, this Brie is a great addition to any cheese board.
12. Thomas Dux Manchego 3-months (Spain)
Spanish cheese does not get any more famous than Manchego. With its firm body, soft buttery notes, and slightly crumbly texture, this 3-month matured delicacy is a versatile choice for any occasion.
Elevate your entertaining by pairing this Thomas Dux Manchego with almonds, walnuts, olives or sun-dried tomatoes. With the right accompaniments, you can certainly enhance its subtly savoury quality.
13. Brancourts Cottage Cheese (Australia)
The final cheese on our list might just be the most versatile one.
The Brancourt story goes back to the 1800’s when Julien and Alice Brancourt move to Australia from France. Soon, they started making Brie and Camembert using family recipes. Around the time of World War I, they expanded their range to start producing a Cottage Cheese that would become Australia’s best!
This fresh cheese is deliciously creamy, yet incredibly healthy. You can enjoy it fresh on toast or a baguette. Or cook a delicious sweet or savoury dish with it.
Summary: Supermarkets bring convenience
When it comes to buying cheese in Australia, your local supermarket often is the most convenient and accessible option. But the vast range of cheeses on sale can sometimes make selection very challenging.
Thanks to our list, you can confidently walk into your local Woolies and know which cheeses you want to buy. Keep an eye out for our other posts in this series covering supermarkets like Coles, Aldi and Costco.
What’s your favourite cheese to buy from Woolworths? Let me know in the comments below.
Jonah is a a hipster, eco-warrior and slow food afficionado. Coming from a scientific background, Jonah has a particular interest in cheese science. And yes, he loves a good cheese pun!
