What is Allerdale? The Award-Winning Delight from Thornby Moor Dairy
Today, we’re embarking on a gastronomic journey to the heart of England, where the Thornby Moor Dairy has been crafting something truly extraordinary – Allerdale cheese.
Allerdale isn’t just any cheese; it’s a testament to traditional cheesemaking methods, a tribute to the lush pastures of Cumbria, and above all, it’s an expression of passion for quality and flavor. This unpasteurized semi-hard goat’s cheese, with its signature almond finish, has garnered recognition far and wide, winning awards and the hearts of cheese connoisseurs alike.
In this post, we will explore the story behind Allerdale, from its inception in the Thornby Moor Dairy to the moment it graces your palate. We’ll delve into what makes this cheese so special, how to enjoy it to the fullest, and why it deserves a spot on your cheeseboard.
Also read: Top 10 Most Popular England Cheeses
Quick facts about Allerdale
| Fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Type | Semi-hard goat’s cheese |
| Country of Origin | England, United Kingdom |
| Region | Thursby, Cumbria |
| Made By | Thornby Moor Dairy |
| Milk Source | Goat’s milk |
| Pasteurization | Unpasteurised |
| Rennet Type | Vegetarian |
| Texture | Semi-hard, crumbly |
| Flavor Profile | Mild with a hint of almond |
| Color | Creamy white |
| Awards Won | British Cheese Awards, Great Taste Awards |
| Pairings | Fruity white wines, crusty bread, green apples |
| Shelf Life | Around 2-3 weeks in optimal conditions |
What is Allerdale Cheese?
Allerdale Cheese is an award-winning semi-hard goat’s cheese produced by Thornby Moor Dairy in the UK. Named after the Allerdale area of Cumbria where it’s made, this cheese is known for its unique flavor profile and quality.
Made from unpasteurised goat’s milk, Allerdale has a distinctive mild and creamy taste with a hint of almond, a characteristic that sets it apart from other goat’s cheeses. It boasts a semi-hard, crumbly texture and a creamy white color.
The cheese is made using traditional methods and vegetarian rennet, reflecting the dairy’s commitment to maintaining the authenticity and integrity of its products. Allerdale cheese has won recognition at the British Cheese Awards and the Great Taste Awards, further solidifying its reputation as a gourmet delight.
Whether enjoyed on its own, paired with crusty bread and fruity white wines, or used in cooking, Allerdale adds a touch of elegance and depth of flavor that is sure to impress.
What does Allerdale cheese taste like?
Allerdale cheese is renowned for its distinct, delectable flavor profile. This semi-hard goat’s cheese has a moist, friable texture that crumbles easily. It is known for its clean, sweet flavor that carries a unique hint of almond, particularly when young.
As the cheese matures, the sweetness derived from the goat’s milk develops a deeper complexity, introducing a grassy note and enhancing its nutty, almondy flavor. Handmade in open vats and matured in cloth for up to five months, Allerdale cheese is a testament to the traditional cheesemaking methods employed at Thornby Moor Dairy.
Whether enjoyed as a standalone delicacy or used to heighten the flavor of various dishes, Allerdale cheese is a gourmet delight that offers an unforgettable taste experience.
Allerdale Tasting Notes
- Appearance: The cheese has a creamy white color. Its texture is semi-hard and crumbly, with a natural rind that is developed during maturation.
- Aroma: Allerdale gives off a pleasant, mildly goaty aroma which becomes more pronounced as the cheese matures.
- Taste: When young, Allerdale has a clean, sweet flavor with a unique hint of almond. As it matures, the sweetness deepens, introducing a subtle grassy note and enhancing its nutty undertone.
- Texture: The texture of Allerdale is moist and friable, it crumbles easily but still maintains a certain creaminess. This texture adds to the overall eating experience.
- Aftertaste: The finish is smooth and lingering, leaving a delightful nutty and slightly sweet aftertaste.
- Pairings: Allerdale pairs well with fruity white wines, crusty bread, and fresh fruits like green apples. It can also be used in cooking, where it adds a depth of flavor to dishes.
What pairs well with Allerdale?
Food that goes well with Allerdale
| Food Category | Foods that Pair Well with Allerdale |
|---|---|
| Breads | Artisan breads, crusty bread, whole grain bread |
| Fruits | Apples, pears, grapes |
| Meats | Smoked ham, prosciutto, salami |
| Seafood | Smoked salmon, grilled shrimp |
| Vegetables | Grilled vegetables, salads, roasted tomatoes |
| Nuts | Almonds, walnuts, pecans |
| Jams and Spreads | Fig jam, quince paste, honey |
| Desserts | Dark chocolate, fruit tarts |
Also read: What Fruit Goes on a Charcuterie Board?
Beverage that goes well with Allerdale
| Beverage Category | Beverages that Pair Well with Allerdale |
|---|---|
| Beers | Jennings ale, Stout beers |
| Wines | Light white wines, fruity rosé wines |
| Non-Alcoholic Drinks | Specialty coffees, Apple cider |
| Spirits | Light rum |
Also read: Best Wine and Cheese Pairings: The Ultimate Guide
More Cheeses from England:
