Last Updated on 3 days by THE CHEESE TEAM
As St Patrick’s Day approaches, it’s the perfect time to indulge in some of Ireland’s finest culinary delights. While Irish soda bread, hearty stews, and, of course, a pint of Guinness, are often front and center during this festive occasion, there’s another treasure from the Emerald Isle that deserves a spot at your celebration table—Irish cheese! With a rich tradition of dairy farming, Ireland produces an array of flavourful cheeses, but three standouts that will elevate your St Patrick’s Day spread are Cahill Porter, Cashel Blue, and Gubbeen.
Cahill Porter: A Bold, Beer-Lover’s Delight
Cahill Porter Cheese
For those who appreciate the deep, malty flavours of Irish porter beer, Cahill Porter is a must-try. This unique cheese is made by infusing smooth, creamy Irish cheddar with the rich, dark flavours of Cahill’s Porter, a traditional Irish stout-style beer. The result is a tangy, slightly sharp cheese with undertones of roasted malt and hints of caramel and toffee. Its earthy depth makes it a perfect pairing for a glass of stout or even a rich, malty beer like Guinness. Whether served on a cheese board or melted over a warm dish, Cahill Porter brings a distinctly Irish touch to any celebration.
Cashel Blue: Creamy, Tangy, and Full of Character
Cashel Blue Cheese
For those who love blue cheese, Cashel Blue is an Irish gem that’s not to be missed. Made by the Grubb family on the Tipperary farm, Cashel Blue is one of the country’s most famous blue cheeses. This semi-soft cheese is rich and creamy with a distinctive blue veining throughout, which gives it a sharp yet mellow tang. Its buttery texture makes it incredibly indulgent, while the blue mold imparts a deep, earthy flavour. Cashel Blue pairs wonderfully with fresh fruits like pears and apples, as well as crusty bread or crackers. For a more adventurous pairing, try it with a glass of Irish whiskey to complement its bold, creamy flavour.
Gubbeen: A Rustic and Rich Taste of County Cork
Gubbeen Cheese
A true artisan masterpiece, Gubbeen is a semi-soft cheese that hails from the southwest of Ireland, specifically County Cork. Made from cow’s milk, Gubbeen is renowned for its smooth, buttery texture and subtle, tangy flavour. The cheese is washed in brine during its aging process, which gives it a smooth, golden rind and a creamy interior. Gubbeen’s flavour profile is slightly nutty, with hints of the grassy pastures on which the cows graze. Its mild yet complex character makes it incredibly versatile, working well with both sweet and savoury accompaniments, such as figs, honey, or cured meats. A slice of Gubbeen is a great addition to any cheese board, providing a perfect balance to sharper cheeses.
Bringing It All Together
This St. Patrick’s Day, why not take your celebration to the next level by serving these standout Irish cheeses? Whether you’re a fan of the beer-infused sharpness of Cahill Porter, the creamy tang of Cashel Blue, or the smooth, nutty goodness of Gubbeen, each cheese brings a unique taste of Ireland to your table. Pair them with Irish soda bread, fresh fruit, or a glass of your favourite Irish stout or whiskey, and you’ll have an unforgettable spread to enjoy with friends and family. To elevate your cheese board, consider adding some traditional Irish accompaniments like chutneys, pickles, sourdough crackers, or a drizzle of honey to enhance the flavours. Complement the selection with nuts, dark chocolate, or even smoked salmon for an extra indulgent touch. Whether you’re hosting a lively gathering or enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, these artisanal cheeses offer a delicious and authentic way to honour Ireland’s rich food heritage. Sláinte to a truly Irish and flavour-filled St. Patrick’s Day!