My Favorite Aged American Cheeses for Spring (and Every Season, Honestly)

May is American Cheese Month, so what better time to spotlight the incredible aged cheeses being crafted right here in the U.S.? We talk a lot about imported wheels—your Parmigiano Reggiano, your Comté, your Manchego—but American cheesemakers have been quietly (and not-so-quietly) creating world-class cheeses that deserve their moment.

Whether you’re building a spring cheese board or just want something a little special for your snack plate, here are the aged American cheeses I’m loving right now: a mix of comfort classics, prestige-level craftsmanship, and unique picks that’ll make any cheese moment feel a little more vibey.

Cabot Clothbound Cheddar Photo: Jasper Hill Farm

1. A Classic Crowd-Pleaser: Cabot Clothbound Cheddar (Vermont)

Sharp cheddar fans, this one’s for you. Aged 10–14 months in the Cellars at Jasper Hill, this Vermont-made clothbound cheddar is nutty, savory, and studded with those delightful little crystals that give it a subtle crunch. It’s familiar, but elevated—perfect with apples, crusty bread, or just straight off the knife.

Pairing: Try it with a glass of Crisp Chardonnay—the acidity cuts through the creaminess, elevating the savory notes of the cheese. Or go for a Hazy IPA, which complements the sharpness with its smooth, citrusy hop profile.

Rogue River Blue Photo: Rogue Creamery

2. A Prestige Pick: Rogue River Blue (Oregon)

If you want a cheese with a little drama (and a lot of awards), meet Rogue River Blue. Wrapped in pear brandy-soaked grape leaves and aged for over 9 months, this Oregon masterpiece is rich, buttery, and full of earthy, fruity complexity. It’s bold without being overpowering, and honestly, it’s a conversation starter all on its own. Pair it with honey or dried figs to bring out its sweeter side.

Pairing: Match it with a Late Harvest Riesling—the honeyed sweetness balances out the blue’s tang, while the fruitiness enhances its depth. For something more bold, try it with a Bourbon cocktail—its caramel and vanilla notes work perfectly with the richness of the blue.

Flory's Truckle Photo: Milton Creamery

3. A Unique Spring Stunner: Flory’s Truckle (Missouri)

For something unexpected, I love Flory’s Truckle—a raw milk cheddar wrapped in muslin and aged for a year in caves. It’s grassy and herbal, with a rustic, slightly floral aroma that feels perfect for spring grazing boards. Serve it with floral honey or a drizzle of lavender jam to really lean into those soft, fragrant notes.

Pairing: Pair it with a dry Sauvignon Blanc to highlight the grassy notes or opt for a Gin and Tonic with a twist of cucumber. The crispness of the gin brings out the fresh, herbaceous qualities of the cheese.

Why These?

Each of these cheeses brings something different to the table: a nostalgic cheddar, an indulgent blue, a nuanced springtime cheddar with floral depth. And the best part? They’re all homegrown American cheeses, aged by makers who know how to transform milk, time, and microbes into something unforgettable.

If you’re looking to explore beyond the usual cheese counter, these aged American beauties are a delicious (and vibey) place to start.