A Cheddar That Commands Your Attention

Old Croc Grand Reserve stands tall in the world of cheddars, hailing from Australia with roots reaching back over 50 years. This cheddar isn’t shy — it’s a bold, aged cheese that delivers a sharp, intense flavor profile combined with a smooth, crumbly texture that makes it a favorite among cheese aficionados. It's the kind of cheddar that doesn’t just accompany your food but transforms it.

The Roots: A Story of Craftsmanship from Down Under

Produced by one of Australia's most respected cheesemakers, Old Croc Grand Reserve owes its character to time-honored methods and the Australian terroir. Traditional dairy farming practices ensure the milk is top-notch, sourcing from well-cared-for cows grazing on fertile pastures. This cheese undergoes an extended aging process — often over 12 months — allowing sharp, complex flavors to develop organically.

The result? A cheddar that is deeply nutty, with salty undertones and a robust, peppery finish that punches through the palate. This isn’t an ordinary block; it’s a cheese to be savored and discussed.

Ingredients & Cheesemaking Essentials

Old Croc Grand Reserve is crafted from pasteurized cow’s milk, utilizing traditional rennet to curdle the milk, with a natural aging process that enhances flavor complexity. Because it’s milk-based with no additives beyond what nature provides, it contains dairy allergens, so it’s best enjoyed by those without sensitivities.

If you’re curious about “rennet,” it’s the enzyme used to coagulate milk during cheesemaking, helping transform liquid milk into curds that eventually become cheese. In Old Croc’s case, natural animal rennet preserves a traditional flavor profile and texture.

Taste and Texture: From Sharp to Smooth

On the palate, Old Croc Grand Reserve offers an intense sharpness balanced with buttery undertones. Its firm, crumbly yet creamy texture melts gently in your mouth, releasing layered notes of toasted nuts, aged caramel, and a touch of savory earthiness.

If you're familiar with the cheddar spectrum, you’ll find Old Croc leaning toward the bold end — it’s sharper and deeper than mild or medium cheddars but without veering into overwhelming bitterness.

Pro Pairing Tip

For a taste experience that matches the cheese’s bold character, pair Old Croc Grand Reserve with a full-bodied red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon or a robust Australian Shiraz. Prefer beer? A rich porter or stout can also beautifully counterbalance the sharpness with malty sweetness.

Looking for a food companion? Crunchy apple slices or caramelized onions highlight the nutty and savory tones, while whole-grain crackers or a hearty sourdough bread create the perfect vehicle for enjoying this cheese.

Where to Find Old Croc Grand Reserve in Pagosa Springs

If you’re in Pagosa Springs and craving this iconic Aussie cheddar, look no further than Murray’s Cheese inside the City Market grocery store. They stock a variety of premium cheeses, including Old Croc Grand Reserve, offering locals and visitors alike a chance to taste this international treasure without crossing any oceans.

Terroir Tales: Why Australian Pastures Matter

Australia's unique climate and pasture conditions contribute significantly to Old Croc's flavor. The pastures are lush and nutrient-rich, influenced by the country’s volcanic soil and mild temperatures, which help produce milk with a rich fat and protein profile essential for high-quality cheddar.

This grass-forward diet imparts subtle herbaceous and nutty nuances to the milk, which are amplified during the extended aging process. So, every bite lets you taste the Australian landscape, much like how Pagosa Springs cheeses express their high-altitude volcanic terroir.

How to Serve and Store

To fully enjoy Old Croc Grand Reserve, bring it to room temperature about 30 minutes before serving. This unleashes its complex aromas and creamy texture. Ideal for cheese boards, grated over pasta, or melted into sauces, this cheddar is versatile enough to star in both simple and sophisticated dishes.

Store it tightly wrapped in wax paper or parchment within an airtight container in your fridge to maintain moisture and prevent overwhelming flavors from other strong foods mixing in. With proper storage, this cheese keeps its bold bite for weeks.

Final Thoughts

Old Croc Grand Reserve is more than just a cheddar — it’s an experience. It represents the prowess of Australian cheesemaking and offers a vibrant, memorable flavor that complements the adventurous spirit of places like Pagosa Springs. Next time you visit Murray’s Cheese or a local deli, treat yourself to a wedge of this classic cheddar. Your taste buds will thank you.

With its boldness and rich history, Old Croc Grand Reserve invites you to savor not just a cheese, but a flavorful story crafted over generations.

Sources & Further Reading

• Murray's Cheese (Murray's Cheese)
• Australian Dairy Industry (Dairy Australia)
• Cheese Science Toolkit (American Cheese Society)
• Australian Food and Drink (Australian Made Campaign)
• Cheese Lover's Guide (Cheese Science & Education Association)