Smoked cheese is more than just a flavour — it’s an experience. That gentle curl of wood smoke, the balance between creaminess and depth, and the rustic warmth it brings to any dish have made it a staple in kitchens and on cheeseboards across the UK.
In this spotlight, we’re diving into the smoked cheese category and comparing Pong Cheese’s Smoked Cheese with Snowdonia Cheese Company’s Beechwood Smoked Cheddar — two artisan-style choices that approach smokiness in very different ways.
Pong Cheese’s Smoked Cheese
Overview:
Pong Cheese sources and curates artisanal varieties from small producers, and their smoked cheese reflects that dedication to traditional craft. It’s a cheddar base smoked naturally to bring out a deep, savoury note without losing the cheese’s inherent character.
Tasting Profile:
- Aroma: Gentle campfire smokiness layered over nutty cheddar richness.
- Texture: Semi-firm with a pleasant crumble.
- Flavour: Balanced — you get the creamy tang of cheddar first, then a lingering, warm smoke finish.
Best Enjoyed:
- On a rustic cheeseboard with chutney and pickles.
- Melted into a luxury mac & cheese.
- Sliced into crusty bread sandwiches with ham or roasted vegetables.
Snowdonia Cheese Company’s Beechwood Smoked Cheddar
Overview:
Snowdonia is known for its bold-flavoured wax-coated truckles, and their Beechwood variety is no exception. Naturally smoked over beechwood chips, it has a golden appearance and a silky, creamy body.
Tasting Profile:
- Aroma: Sweet, almost caramel-like smoke with buttery undertones.
- Texture: Smooth and rich — less crumbly than many cheddars.
- Flavour: Creamy cheddar at the core with a sweet, rounded smokiness that’s easy for all palates to enjoy.
Best Enjoyed:
- Sliced thin on crackers with fruit for contrast.
- Melted into gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches.
- As a mild introduction to smoked cheese for new tasters.
Pong Cheese vs Snowdonia: The Verdict
| Feature | Pong Cheese Smoked | Snowdonia Beechwood Smoked |
|---|---|---|
| Smoke Style | Rich, woody, slightly savoury | Sweet, mellow, caramel-like |
| Texture | Semi-firm, crumbly | Smooth, creamy |
| Flavour Intensity | Medium-strong | Mild-medium |
| Artisan Feel | Traditional, rustic | Modern, polished |
| Best For | Cheese lovers who want depth | Broad appeal, easy pairing |
Both cheeses are excellent examples of smoked cheddar done right — but they cater to slightly different audiences. Pong’s version feels like it belongs in a farmhouse kitchen, paired with a pint of ale. Snowdonia’s Beechwood, with its creamier and sweeter edge, is ideal for those who want a gentler entry point into smoked cheese.
Final Thoughts
Smoked cheese in the UK is as diverse as it is delicious. If you’re looking for bold, rustic authenticity, Pong Cheese’s Smoked Cheese is a must-try. For a smoother, sweeter experience, Snowdonia’s Beechwood Smoked Cheddar delivers every time.
Either way, both bring that signature smokiness that turns a simple bite into something memorable.
Find Discount Codes For Pong Cheese Here.
Find Discount Codes For Snowdonia Cheese Here.