Selling Guide: Old Croc Grand Reserve Cheddar

A Message from Your Head Monger

G'day, Mates! Get ready to meet a cheese that will quickly become a customer favorite and a hero behind your counter. Old Croc's Grand Reserve is an Australian cheddar with a bold personality and a story to tell. This guide is your key to unlocking its potential, turning curious shoppers into devoted fans. Let's get selling!

1. The Quick Pitch

Elevator Pitch (For the Customer in a Hurry)

This is our Grand Reserve Cheddar from Australia, aged for two full years to give it an incredible, extra-sharp flavor. It’s rich and savory with a fantastic crumbly texture and these amazing little crunchy bits called "flavor crystals" that are a sign of a truly mature, high-quality cheese.

Key Selling Points (Why They'll Love It)

  • Bold, Complex Flavor: Two years of aging develops a robust, nutty, and intensely savory flavor profile that goes far beyond your typical sharp cheddar.1
  • Unique Crystalline Texture: The cheese is studded with crunchy tyrosine and calcium lactate crystals—a delightful texture that cheese aficionados seek out and new customers will find fascinating.2
  • Premium Grass-Fed Milk: It's crafted in Australia from the pure, pasteurized milk of grass-fed cows, which gives it a richer flavor and superior nutritional qualities, including more omega-3s (ω-3s).5 It's also All-Natural, Non-GMO, and made without added hormones.1
  • Incredible Versatility: It's a showstopper on a cheeseboard, but it also melts beautifully, making it the perfect upgrade for burgers, gourmet grilled cheese, or mac and cheese.6

"If you like X, you'll love this..."

  • "If you enjoy a really sharp English or Vermont cheddar, this takes it to the next level with a more complex, crumbly, and crystalline texture."
  • "If you like the nutty, crunchy quality of an aged Gouda or Parmesan, you'll love that same characteristic in this cheddar—it's a fantastic 'gateway' to the world of aged, crystalline cheeses.".3

2. Tasting & Sensory Profile

Appearance

This is a rindless, block cheddar, typical of modern Australian cheesemaking. The paste is a dense, uniform, pale buttery-yellow color, a visual cue of the beta-carotene-rich milk from grass-fed cows.10 The body may show slight fractures, hinting at its aged, crumbly nature.

Aroma

Don't expect a shy cheese. The aroma is robust, savory, and inviting. You’ll notice a bright, tangy lactic sharpness, followed by rich, nutty notes of toasted almond and sweet cream. Subtle undertones of fresh hay and cultured butter speak to the quality of the milk.12

Flavor Profile

The taste is a journey. It opens with a bold, tangy bite that immediately announces its extra-sharp character. This acidity quickly mellows on the mid-palate, revealing a complex savory depth—think brothy or umami notes, similar to a fine Parmesan.4 These savory notes are balanced by a subtle, buttery sweetness and a distinct nuttiness that lingers through a long, mouth-watering finish.

Texture & Mouthfeel

This is a defining characteristic and a huge selling point. The body is firm and dense, yet delightfully crumbly—it will fracture into delicious, craggy pieces.3 The true star is the texture: the smooth, creamy paste is punctuated by a generous scattering of crunchy "flavor crystals" (tyrosine and calcium lactate).1 This provides a slightly gritty, satisfying crunch that is the hallmark of a perfectly matured cheddar.

3. The Story & Interesting Facts

This cheese has a story that sells itself. It’s born from the "Outback Bold" spirit of Australia, a land known for its lush, green pastures and high-quality dairy.5

  • The Australian Terroir: The milk comes from grass-fed cows grazing in a region with high rainfall and fertile soil. This isn't just a romantic detail; the diet enriches the milk, creating a more complex flavor and a healthier cheese.5 The Australian dairy industry also proudly prohibits the use of steroidal hormones, ensuring a pure, clean product.5
  • Aussie Grit, American Palate: While the cheese is authentically Australian-made, the Old Croc brand itself is managed by American cheese experts (Trugman-Nash) who know exactly what the American cheddar lover is looking for.15 It’s the best of both worlds: genuine Australian craftsmanship tailored for a bold, flavor-forward experience.
  • The "Grand Reserve" Promise: Unlike its younger siblings (Sharp and Extra Sharp), the Grand Reserve is aged for a full two years.1 This extended aging is what develops the deep, savory flavors and those coveted crunchy crystals. It truly earns its "Grand" title.

4. Pairings & Culinary Uses

Perfect Food Pairings

  • Sweet: Contrast its salty tang with fig jam, honeycomb, or dried apricots. Tart Granny Smith apple slices or sweet Bosc pears are also classic partners.2
  • Savory: The brand specifically recommends smoked sausage.1 It also stands up beautifully to spicy salami, salty prosciutto, and toasted walnuts or pecans.18
  • Carrier: Serve with a hearty, crusty baguette or sturdy, whole-grain crackers that can handle its robust character.2

Beverage Pairings

  • Wine:
    • Red: A bold, fruity red is a must. The brand suggests an aged Zinfandel.1 A full-bodied
      Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah also works beautifully.22
    • White: A crisp sparkling wine cuts through the richness perfectly.1 An
      oaky Chardonnay will complement its buttery notes, while a dry Riesling offers a delightful contrast.17
  • Beer:
    • Hoppy: A bitter, citrus-forward IPA is a fantastic counterpoint to the cheese's sharpness.18
    • Malty: A rich Stout or Porter will bring out the cheese's nutty, savory notes. A malty Brown Ale is another can't-miss pairing.25
  • Other: A dry or spiced hard cider offers a brilliant balance of fruit, sweetness, and acidity. For spirit lovers, a Bourbon with its caramel notes is a perfect match.20

In the Kitchen

Encourage customers to cook with it! This cheese isn't just for snacking; it's a secret weapon in the kitchen.

  • The Ultimate Melter: It melts "like a dream".6 Recommend it for a life-changing
    gourmet grilled cheese, a truly decadent mac and cheese, or as the crowning glory on a juicy burger. The brand even features a recipe for "Smash Burger Tacos" with it.27
  • A Flavor Punch: Because it's firm and crumbly, it's perfect for grating or breaking over dishes. Suggest crumbling it over a salad, a bowl of chili, or roasted vegetables for a huge flavor boost.

5. Cheesemonger Quick Guide

Evocative Words

  • Bold
  • Robust
  • Crumbly
  • Crystalline
  • Tangy
  • Nutty
  • Savory
  • Buttery
  • Rich
  • Mature

Sample Phrases to Use with Customers

  • To Introduce: "Here’s a really special cheese from Australia that our customers who love sharp cheddar have been raving about. It’s aged for two full years."
  • To Describe Flavor: "You'll notice it has a big, tangy flavor up front, but then it melts into this rich, nutty, almost Parmesan-like finish."
  • To Explain the Texture: "The best part is the texture. See those little crunchy bits? Those are 'flavor crystals' that only form in a well-aged cheese. They give it a fantastic mouthfeel."
  • To Suggest a Use: "This would be incredible for the ultimate burger this weekend. It melts beautifully and has a flavor that will stand up to the grill." or "Break this into chunks on a cheeseboard with some fig jam and a bold Zinfandel—it's a perfect pairing."

Works cited

  1. Grand Reserve Aged Cheddar Block Cheese - Old Croc, accessed September 3, 2025, https://oldcroccheese.com/product/grand-reserve-cheddar/
  2. WHY CHEDDAR LOVERS ARE ENJOYING OLD CROC, accessed September 3, 2025, https://oldcroccheese.com/cheddar-lovers-love-old-croc/
  3. Best Cheddar? - Phish.net Forum, accessed September 3, 2025, https://forum.phish.net/forum/show/1378787943
  4. Old Croc Cheddar Cheese (Grand Reserve) - YouTube, accessed September 3, 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=13HtCfLtrgQ
  5. Proudly Crafted. Purely Australian. - Old Croc, accessed September 3, 2025, https://oldcroccheese.com/our-story/
  6. Old Croc Cheese | Australia Grass Fed Cheddar Cheese, accessed September 3, 2025, https://oldcroccheese.com/
  7. Old Croc Grand Reserve Cheddar 7 oz - Meijer, accessed September 3, 2025, https://www.meijer.com/shopping/product/old-croc-grand-reserve-cheddar-7-oz/89161300030.html
  8. Do you like Old Croc cheese? If so which one? - Reddit, accessed September 3, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/Cheese/comments/16nypbv/do_you_like_old_croc_cheese_if_so_which_one/
  9. What Are Those Crunchy White Bits On Cheese? - Allrecipes, accessed September 3, 2025, https://www.allrecipes.com/what-are-cheese-crystals-8665440
  10. Old Croc Cheddar Cheese, Grand Reserve - Azure Standard, accessed September 3, 2025, https://www.azurestandard.com/shop/product/food/cheese/cheddar/extra-sharp/white/cheddar-cheese-grand-reserve/32612
  11. Jefferson 2 Year Aged Cheddar - Rogue Creamery, accessed September 3, 2025, https://roguecreamery.com/products/jefferson-2-year-aged-cheddar
  12. Grafton 2 Year Old Aged Cheddar - Dakin Farm, accessed September 3, 2025, https://www.dakinfarm.com/Grafton-2-Year-Old-Aged-Cheddar,3340.html
  13. 2 Year Aged Cheddar - Grafton Village Cheese, accessed September 3, 2025, https://www.graftonvillagecheese.com/product/2-year-aged-cheddar/
  14. Grafton Village Cheese 2 Year Cheddar Brick, accessed September 3, 2025, https://www.murrayscheese.com/dp/grafton-village-cheese-year-cheddar-brick
  15. Old Croc Named 'Top Sliced Cheese' at World Champion Cheese ..., accessed September 3, 2025, https://perishablenews.com/deli/old-croc-named-top-sliced-cheese-at-world-champion-cheese-contest/
  16. What's the general opinion of Old Croc cheeses? - Reddit, accessed September 3, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/Cheese/comments/1jgvtiy/whats_the_general_opinion_of_old_croc_cheeses/
  17. The Beginner's Guide To Cheese Pairing, accessed September 3, 2025, https://www.wisconsincheese.com/the-cheese-life/article/93/rose-wine-and-cheese
  18. Ultimate Cheese Pairing Guide: Wine, Meat & More - Cabot Creamery, accessed September 3, 2025, https://cabotcreamery.com/blogs/pairing-guides/ultimate-cheese-pairing-guide
  19. Old Croc Gran Reserva Cheddar Cheese, Plastic Wrapper, Refrigerated - Walmart.com, accessed September 3, 2025, https://www.walmart.com/ip/Old-Croc-Gran-Reserva-Cheddar-Cheese/344117164?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=0&selectedOfferId=2DBF2BA9662244DFA8A41EDB42F83219&conditionGroupCode=1
  20. Pairing Sharp Cheddar Cheese: What to Drink and Serve With This Bold Favorite, accessed September 3, 2025, https://www.gardnerswisconsincheese.com/blogs/recipes/pairing-sharp-cheddar-cheese-what-to-drink-and-serve-with-this-bold-favorite
  21. Old Croc Grand Reserve Cheddar Loaf - Gourmet Foods International, accessed September 3, 2025, https://www.gfifoods.com/48105-old-croc-grand-reserve-cheddar
  22. Wine & Cheese Pairing Guide - Wolfe Heights Winery & Event Center, accessed September 3, 2025, https://wolfeheights.com/wine-cheese-pairing-guide/
  23. Cheddar Cheese : Interesting Facts and Pairing Ideas - Grapes & Grains, accessed September 3, 2025, https://www.grapesandgrains.org/2017/04/cheddar-cheese-facts-and-pairing-ideas.html
  24. Aged White Cheddar - Wisconsin Cheese, accessed September 3, 2025, https://www.wisconsincheese.com/about-cheese/aged-white-cheddar
  25. What Don't You Drink with Aged Cheddar? - The Cheese Professor, accessed September 3, 2025, https://www.cheeseprofessor.com/blog/aged-cheddar-pairings
  26. Cheese Pairings - MGM Wine & Spirits, accessed September 3, 2025, https://mgmwineandspirits.com/cheese-pairings/
  27. Extra Sharp Cheddar Archives – Old Croc Cheese, accessed September 3, 2025, https://oldcroccheese.com/category/recipes/extra-sharp-cheddar/
  28. Recipes Archives - Old Croc Cheese, accessed September 3, 2025, https://oldcroccheese.com/tag/recipes/