Trader Joe’s Cheese Taste Test: Every Variety Ranked From Worst to Best
When you walk into a Trader Joe’s, the cheese aisle can feel like a goldmine—or a minefield. With dozens of options staring back at you, it’s hard to separate the truly delicious from the ones that just look fancy. That’s why I did what every cheese lover dreams of: I grabbed every cheese I could find at my local New York City Trader Joe’s and tasted all 17 of them. The result? A definitive ranking from bottom to top, so you can spend less time guessing and more time grating, slicing, and snacking.
Editor’s Note: This taste test was originally published in April 2024 and updated on May 18, 2026. Product availability may shift depending on your location and the season—so if you see a winner, grab it while you can.
The Bottom Rung: Cheeses I’d Leave on the Shelf
Not every cheese in that cooler is a winner. Some disappointed me so much that I’d recommend skipping them entirely. Here’s what didn’t make the cut.
1. Trader Joe’s White Stilton with Apricots
This was my least favorite of the bunch—and it wasn’t even close. The white Stilton with apricots is aggressively sweet, and not in a balanced way. It tastes more like a dessert than a cheese, with the fruit overpowering everything else. If you’re craving something sweet alongside your morning pastry, you’d be better off using jam or butter. This cheese just doesn’t pull its weight on a board or a plate.
2. Comté Cheese
I wanted to love Comté—it’s a classic French favorite for good reason. But this particular Trader Joe’s version had a deep, almost unpleasant earthiness that I couldn’t shake. The flavor was just too strong and funky for my palate. If you’re determined to try it, pair it with fig jam. That sweetness helps take the edge off, but even then, I wouldn’t call it a buy-again.
3. Cotswold Double Gloucester with Onions and Chives
This cheese surprised me, but not in a good way at first. The texture is smooth—almost Velveeta-like—which threw me off. But the onion and chive flavors grew on me after a few bites. It reminded me of a loaded baked potato, which is both comforting and strange in a cheese. My advice: use it on a steaming hot baked potato with or without sour cream. It works there, but on its own? It’s a pass.
The Middle Ground: Good, But Not Great
These cheeses weren’t bad, but they didn’t blow me away either. They’re fine for casual snacking or cooking, but I wouldn’t go out of my way to buy them again.
4. New Zealand Sharp Cheddar
Sharp cheddar is a staple, but this one had a subtle, Swiss-like aftertaste that I didn’t love. It’s not offensive, just unexpected. When I paired it with pepperoni, the flavor improved significantly—so it’s fine on a charcuterie board, but not a standout on its own.
5. Fontina Semisoft Cheese
Fontina is supposed to be mild and creamy, and this one delivered on that promise. But it was also one of the most forgettable cheeses I tried. The red-wax coating and subtle flavor reminded me of the Babybel cheeses I pack in my kids’ lunches. That said, when I used it to make mac and cheese, the creaminess was a game-changer. My family loved it. So if you’re cooking with it, it’s a solid choice—just don’t expect a solo snacking star.
6. Manchego Cheese
Manchego is a classic, and this version was mild, buttery, and slightly sweet. Think of it as a refined Monterey Jack. It’s pleasant, but nothing special. If you want a reliable table cheese that won’t offend anyone, this is your pick. But if you’re after bold flavor, keep moving down the list.
The Top of the Fridge: Cheeses I’d Buy Again in a Heartbeat
Now we’re talking. These are the cheeses that made me stop, savor, and reach for another slice. Every single one of these earned a spot on my permanent shopping list.
7. (Ranked higher than the middle) – Let’s call this the honorable mention
Actually, let’s jump straight to my absolute favorite.
1. Trader Joe’s Creamy Toscano Cheese Soaked in Syrah
This was hands-down the best cheese I tried. The creamy Toscano soaked in syrah is rich, bold, and complex. The wine soak adds a subtle fruitiness that pairs beautifully with the cheese’s creamy, buttery texture. It’s the kind of cheese that makes you close your eyes and savor. I’d recommend it on a cheese board with crackers, dried fruit, or even a drizzle of honey. But honestly, it’s fantastic on its own.
Why it won: Perfect balance of flavor and texture. It’s indulgent without being heavy, and the syrah soak adds an elegant depth that most cheeses can’t touch.
How to Shop the Trader Joe’s Cheese Aisle Like a Pro
After tasting 17 cheeses, I learned a few things that go beyond ranking. Here’s my playbook for navigating the cooler:
- Check the label for origin. Many Trader Joe’s cheeses come from specific regions like New Zealand or France, which affects flavor profiles. Don’t assume all cheddars are equal.
- Pair bold cheeses with fruit or jam. The Comté and Cotswold both benefitted from fig jam or something sweet. If a cheese tastes too earthy or strong, a little sweetness can save it.
- Use forgettable cheeses for cooking. Fontina and mild cheddars are great in recipes like mac and cheese, quiche, or grilled cheese sandwiches. You won’t miss the complexity when they’re melted.
- Don’t sleep on seasonal options. White Stilton with apricots might be a year-round item, but some varieties appear only during certain months. Ask your local store about seasonal offerings.
- Taste first, buy later. If you’re on the fence, grab a small wedge. Many cheeses hold well for a week, and you can always go back for more.
The Verdict: Which Cheeses Are Worth Your Money?
| Cheese | Rating | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| White Stilton with Apricots | Least favorite | Breakfast pastry (or skip) |
| Comté | Below average | Pair with fig jam |
| Cotswold Double Gloucester (onion & chive) | Divisive | On a baked potato |
| New Zealand Sharp Cheddar | Average | Pair with pepperoni |
| Fontina | Forgettable | Mac and cheese |
| Manchego | Reliable | Snacking or cheese board |
| Creamy Toscano soaked in syrah | Best overall | Solo or on a cheese board |
Final Takeaway
I tried every cheese I could find at Trader Joe’s, and the truth is, I’d buy almost all of them again—but not all for the same reasons. Some are perfect for cooking, others for snacking, and a few are best left behind. The Creamy Toscano soaked in syrah is a must-try, and the rest? They’re good, but they’re not all great.
If you’re building a cheese board for a party or just treating yourself, skip the Stilton and go straight for the Toscano. Your taste buds will thank you.