Monterey Jack

semi-hard · cow milk · United States · $

Melts beautifully, with a smooth texture.

Attribute scores

meltability 9/10

sharpness 3/10

creaminess 6/10

firmness 5/10

pungency 2/10

Best cheese wine pairing

Pair Monterey Jack with a medium-bodied red like Merlot, or an unoaked Chardonnay — a milder semi-hard cheese (sharpness 3) is best met halfway, not overpowered.

Great for

Burgers

Substitutes for Monterey Jack

Cheese	Why it works
Colby	similar overall, but less meltability
Muenster	similar overall, but less meltability
Leerdammer	similar overall, but more sharpness
Mozzarella	similar overall, but less sharpness
Danbo	similar overall, but less meltability
Havarti	similar overall, but less meltability