Welcome to the world of Blue Wensleydale Cheese, a true delicacy that will delight your taste buds. This traditional English cheese offers a creamy texture and a mellow flavor that is sure to please. Made in the picturesque countryside of Wensleydale, this British cheese has a rich heritage dating back to its creation by Cistercian monks in 1150.
Handcrafted at the renowned Wensleydale Creamery, Blue Wensleydale Cheese is made using local milk and unique cheesemaking starter cultures. The cheese is carefully aged and matured in a special room to develop its distinctive blue veining, resulting in a cheese that is truly special.
Throughout its production, skilled cheesemakers monitor the cheese to ensure its exceptional quality. After 8 weeks of aging, the Blue Wensleydale Cheese is ready for sale, offering you a taste sensation like no other.
Whether you’re a fan of blue cheese or simply curious to try something new, Blue Wensleydale Cheese is a must-try. Its creamy texture and mellow flavor make it a versatile choice for any occasion. From adding it to your cheese board to incorporating it into culinary creations, this English cheese is sure to impress.
So, indulge in the delights of Blue Wensleydale Cheese and savor the taste of this treasured British cheese. Discover why it has been loved for centuries and join the ranks of cheese connoisseurs who appreciate the artistry and tradition behind this exceptional cheese.
The Production Process of Blue Wensleydale Cheese
The production of Blue Wensleydale Cheese at the renowned Wensleydale Creamery involves a meticulous cheesemaking process that results in its unique and delightful flavor. Let’s take a closer look at the journey this delectable cheese takes from milk to table.
Step 1: Adding Blue Mould Spores
To begin, the milk used for Blue Wensleydale Cheese is infused with carefully selected blue mould spores during the cheesemaking process. This addition sets the foundation for the distinctive blue veining that makes this cheese so visually appealing.
Step 2: Pressing and Bandaging
After the blue mould spores have been added, the cheese curds are lightly pressed to remove excess whey and provide the desired texture. Following this, the cheese curds are gently wrapped in a muslin bandage, which allows the cheese to maintain its shape while preserving its inner moisture.
Step 3: Maturing Room
The bound cheese is then transferred to a maturing room where specific conditions of temperature and humidity are carefully maintained. These controlled conditions play a crucial role in the development of the cheese’s flavors and textures as it slowly matures over time.
Step 4: Blue Mould Development and Maturation
After approximately 1-2 weeks, the cheese undergoes a crucial transformation. It is pierced with small needles to expose it to air and encourage the growth of blue mould within the cheese. This step not only leads to the development of the characteristic blue veining but also introduces a creamy texture, replacing the initial chalky and crumbly consistency.
Throughout this process, skilled cheesemakers and cheese graders diligently monitor the cheese to ensure optimal quality and taste. The result is a Blue Wensleydale Cheese that exudes exceptional flavor and possesses a delightful balance between creaminess and the tangy notes brought by the blue mould.
Pairing Blue Wensleydale Cheese
When it comes to enjoying the delightful flavors of Blue Wensleydale Cheese, the right pairings can elevate your tasting experience to new heights. The creamy texture and mellow flavor of this exquisite cheese are beautifully complemented by a variety of accompaniments and beverages.
Accompaniments
To create the perfect balance of flavors and textures, consider pairing Blue Wensleydale Cheese with the following:
- Oatcakes – These crisp and slightly savory crackers provide a delightful contrast to the creaminess of the cheese.
- Red Onion Marmalade – The sweet and tangy flavors of the marmalade add depth and complexity to each bite.
For a refreshing twist, try enjoying Blue Wensleydale Cheese with fresh grapes and slices of pear. The juicy sweetness of the fruits complements the creamy cheese, creating a tantalizing blend of flavors.
Beverage Pairings
When it comes to beverages, the right choice can enhance the flavors of Blue Wensleydale Cheese. Consider these options:
- Port – The rich, sweet notes of a fine port create a harmonious partnership with the creamy cheese.
- Malbec – This bold and fruity red wine brings out the earthy and nutty undertones of the Blue Wensleydale Cheese.
- Merlot – The soft tannins and medium body of a Merlot complement the creaminess of the cheese without overpowering it.
Indulge in the art of pairing Blue Wensleydale Cheese with these carefully chosen accompaniments and beverages. Your taste buds will thank you for the delightful harmony of flavors and textures.
Blue Wensleydale Cheese Delicacies to Enjoy
Indulge in the delightful world of Blue Wensleydale Cheese with a variety of accompaniments available at the Wensleydale Creamery’s online Deli. Whether you’re looking for a cozy night in or planning a gathering with friends and family, these cheese options are sure to please your palate.
Red Onion Chutney and Deli Boxes
Pair your Blue Wensleydale Cheese with the rich flavors of Red Onion Chutney for a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Create your own custom deli box by selecting your favorite cheeses, crackers, and condiments, or choose from our expertly curated cheese boxes.
Delve into the exquisite flavors of our Wensleydale Night In Box, filled with a selection of artisanal cheeses, including Blue Wensleydale. This box is perfect for a relaxed evening, whether it’s a quiet night alone or a gathering with loved ones.
Yorkshire Blues Box
For an indulgent cheese experience, try our Yorkshire Blues Box. This curated selection features Wensleydale Blue and other exceptional blues cheeses, along with Blue Cheese Lover’s Pineapple Chutney and Miller’s Water Crackers. It’s a taste sensation that will leave you craving more.
The History of Blue Wensleydale Cheese
Blue Wensleydale Cheese has a rich heritage that spans centuries. Originally, it was the predominant variety of Wensleydale cheese, beloved for its unique flavor and creamy texture. However, over the years, its production faced challenges and declined in popularity.
During World War Two, the commercial production of Blue Wensleydale Cheese came to a halt due to cheese regulations. As a result, the blue variety became scarce, with only a handful of producers continuing to make it. The knowledge and skills required to create this farmhouse cheese seemed on the brink of being lost forever.
However, in the 1950s, efforts were made to revive Blue Wensleydale Cheese commercially. Although these initiatives faced setbacks and the traditional methods were not completely recovered, they laid the foundation for future development.
In the 1990s, other dairies recognized the value of Blue Wensleydale Cheese and began producing it once again. This resurgence in production led to increased availability and ensured that this heritage cheese would continue to delight cheese lovers around the world.
The history of Blue Wensleydale Cheese is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of cheesemakers in preserving and reviving traditional cheese varieties. Today, the Wensleydale Creamery remains a key producer of this beloved cheese, upholding its heritage and crafting each wheel with care and passion.
| Blue Wensleydale Cheese | Wensleydale Creamery | Farmhouse Cheese | Wartime Production |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rich history and heritage | Craftsmanship and tradition | Made using traditional methods | Challenged by cheese regulations |
| Resurgence in production | Reviving a lost cheese variety | Handcrafted with passion | Modern techniques meet tradition |
| A unique flavor and creamy texture | Preserving the art of cheesemaking | Admired by cheese connoisseurs | Ensuring availability for all |
Conclusion
Blue Wensleydale Cheese is the epitome of gourmet cheese, with its distinct flavor and creamy texture. This artisanal cheese is a beloved favorite among cheese connoisseurs and is a must-have for any cheese board or culinary creation. Its rich history and traditional production process make it a sought-after choice among cheese lovers.
Indulge in the delights of Blue Wensleydale Cheese and experience a truly memorable tasting experience. Its unique flavor profile and smooth texture will tantalize your taste buds, leaving you craving for more. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with delectable accompaniments, this cheese is sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
As you explore the world of gourmet cheeses, make sure to include Blue Wensleydale Cheese in your culinary repertoire. Its exceptional taste and artisanal craftsmanship set it apart from other cheeses. Treat yourself to the indulgence of Blue Wensleydale Cheese and join the ranks of true cheese lovers.
FAQ
What is Blue Wensleydale Cheese?
Blue Wensleydale Cheese is a true delicacy with a close textured, creamy texture and a delicate, mellow flavor. It is a traditional cheese with a rich heritage and provenance, originally made by Cistercian monks in Wensleydale in 1150.
How is Blue Wensleydale Cheese made?
The production of Blue Wensleydale Cheese involves adding blue mould spores to the milk during the cheesemaking process. The cheese is lightly pressed, bound in a muslin bandage, and transferred to a maturing room with controlled temperature and humidity. After 1-2 weeks, the cheese is pierced to facilitate the blue mould development and the maturation process.
What does Blue Wensleydale Cheese pair well with?
Blue Wensleydale Cheese pairs well with oatcakes and red onion marmalade, offering a combination of flavors and textures. Crisp grapes and slices of pear complement the creamy cheese. When it comes to beverages, a fine port, Malbec, or Merlot is the perfect choice to enhance the flavors of the Blue Wensleydale Cheese.
Can I purchase Blue Wensleydale Cheese online?
Yes, Blue Wensleydale Cheese is available for purchase online, along with a range of accompaniments from the Wensleydale Creamery’s online Deli. The cheese pairs perfectly with Red Onion Chutney and can be included in deli boxes or cheese boxes for a deliciously cozy night in.
What is the history of Blue Wensleydale Cheese?
Blue Wensleydale Cheese has a rich history. It was originally the dominant variety of Wensleydale cheese, but its production declined over the years. During World War Two, the commercial production of Blue Wensleydale Cheese was halted due to cheese regulations. After the war, the production of the blue variety remained limited, with only a few producers making it. Efforts to revive the cheese commercially were made in the 1950s, but the knowledge and skills were lost. In the 1990s, other dairies started producing Blue Wensleydale Cheese, leading to its availability once again.
What makes Blue Wensleydale Cheese special?
Blue Wensleydale Cheese is a gourmet English cheese with a unique flavor and creamy texture. Its rich history and artisanal production process make it a sought-after choice among cheese lovers. It offers a delightful addition to any cheese board or culinary creation.
