What is the oldest cheddar cheese?

There's no definitive answer to the question of the "oldest cheddar cheese" because:

* Cheddar is a style, not a specific brand: There are many different producers of cheddar cheese, each with their own aging methods.

* Age is relative: "Oldest" could refer to the longest period of aging for a single piece of cheddar or the oldest company still producing cheddar.

* Record-keeping: It's difficult to track and verify the age of individual cheeses over long periods.

However, here are some points to consider:

* Cheddar cheese has been produced in England for centuries. The name comes from the village of Cheddar in Somerset, where it has been made since at least the 12th century.

* Some cheddar cheeses can be aged for several years. Aged cheddars, like "vintage cheddar," can be aged for 12 months or longer, developing a sharp and complex flavor.

* There are companies with long histories of cheddar production. Some companies, like Keens Cheddar, have been making cheddar cheese for generations, dating back to the 19th century.

So, while there's no single "oldest" cheddar cheese, it's safe to say that cheddar has a long and rich history, with some aged varieties reaching impressive ages.