If Cheeses were People at a Party
- Rachael Popplewell
- Sep 8
- 3 min read
I’m not your typical cheese person. Forget cheddar — it’s safe, predictable, everyone’s favourite by default. I’ll let it on the board, sure, but only because it’s expected.
The cheeses I actually love are the ones with character: the bold, the smoky, the salty, the ones that turn heads. And the more I think about it, the more they feel less like cheeses… and more like party guests.

Gouda & Gruyère – The Smooth Operators
Smooth, complex, and always paired with a good glass of wine. They won’t raise their voices — they win you over quietly, subtly. You just want to keep finding out more. But be careful: they make you trust them, while never revealing all their secrets.
Parmesan, Pecorino & Grana Padano – The Wise Elders
A little hard-edged, maybe, but full of depth and rich history. They’re not energetic or modern, but they pack a punch in their own way. Old souls who might not shout the loudest, but they’re essential.
Feta – The Party Starter
Things get messy when feta turns up. Crumbly, controversial, chaotic — some people love them, some hate them. A little salty, a little dramatic, but guaranteed to shake things up.
Halloumi – The Energiser
Unique, squeaky, and a total trendsetter. A bit leathery, a bit salty, not afraid to get burned. Always moving, always loud, and definitely not blending in.
Mozzarella – The Sweetheart
Soft, squishy, and loved by almost everyone. Sure, they can be a little bland sometimes, but they’re the comfort blanket of the group — always ready to hug you into their creamy warmth.
Smoked Cheeses (Scamorza & Friends) – The Cool Crowd
That subtle whiff of smoke gives them away before they even say a word. Mysterious, addictive, maybe a little dangerous. They don’t mix with everyone, but the ones who get it, get it.
Red Leicester – The Reliable Mate
If cheddar is the quarterback, Red Leicester is the mascot. They turn up with a six-pack, know everyone in the room, and don’t cause any drama. Strong, steady, dependable — not flashy, but you’d miss them if they weren’t there.
Blue Cheeses (Stilton, Gorgonzola, Cambozola) – The Rebels
The outcasts. People whisper that they’re weird or stinky, but they don’t care. They’re bold, unapologetic, and always themselves. You might avoid them at first, but if you end up next to them, you’ll probably get on better than you expect.
Brie – The Flirt
Luxurious, indulgent, and a little bit dirty. You melt for them, get lost in their charm, and regret it later when it all feels too much. Still, you can’t resist going back.
Manchego – The Stylish Guest
Suave, sharp, and the best dancer in the room. A total heartbreaker, with a rivalry going on with Brie — they play it differently, but both know how to steal the spotlight.
Cheddar – The Popular One
You don’t even have to invite cheddar — they’re always going to show up. Everyone knows them, everyone gets along with them. Reliable, safe, fine. Unless, of course, you’re in the alternative crowd that refuses anything mainstream.
Final Word
Well, I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling like having a solo party with a cheeseboard and some crackers. I know exactly which cheeses I’ll be inviting. How about you?







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