Cheese story
What is Monterey Jack?
An American cheese known for smooth melting and mild buttery flavour.
Origin
California, United States
Milk
cow
Board role
Soft / creamy
Cheese profile
Country
United States
Region
California
Milk type
cow
Texture
semi-hard
Rind
waxed or natural
Ageing
1 to 6 months
Vegetarian
Check the rennet / producer
Milk treatment
yes
Flavour profile: mild, buttery, creamy
Origin, protection and character
Monterey Jack comes from United States, especially California. Its character comes from the balance of milk, texture, rind, ageing and local serving traditions.
Protected status
None
Typical ageing
1 to 6 months
How to serve Monterey Jack
melting, burgers, tacos, casseroles
Good food matches
lager
chillies
sandwiches
Serving tip
Take it out of the fridge before serving so the texture softens and the flavour opens up. Softer cheeses usually need less time than hard aged cheeses.
Buying tip
Look for clean aroma, good texture and a style that matches the board: fresh and bright, soft and creamy, hard and nutty, blue and salty, or bold and washed-rind.
