This summer has been a special one for our small team here in Northumberland. While many of you were enjoying the last warm weeks of the season, our cheesemakers were quietly achieving something remarkable - bringing home a collection of awards from two respected agricultural shows.
For a dairy of our size, these moments matter. Every cheese we make is the result of hands-on craft, patience, and the skill of real people who care deeply about what they do. And every penny spent with us goes straight back into the local economy, supporting rural jobs, local suppliers, and the future of Northumbrian food production.
Success at the Mid Somerset Show
We were delighted to see two of our cheeses recognised at the Mid Somerset Show:
- Redesdale - 2nd Place
- Oak Smoked - 3rd Place
Redesdale’s gentle richness and Oak Smoked’s natural depth continue to be favourites among customers who enjoy cheeses with character and balance. Seeing them celebrated by judges reinforces what we already know:these cheeses represent the very best of traditional Northumbrian craft.
A Golden Day at the Chipping Show
The Chipping Show brought even more good news:
- Chillingham Cheddar - Gold
- Chesterwood - Bronze
- Ewe Moo - Gold + Children’s Choice Cup
Ewe Moo’s win is particularly close to our hearts. What began as a small accident in the dairy has grown into a cheese loved by judges and children - a reminder that sometimes the unexpected becomes unforgettable. If you’d like to learn more about our cheeses, you can explore meet the cheese.
What Makes an Award-Winning Cheese?
Awards aren’t just about flavour. Judges look for:
- Balance - acidity, sweetness, savoury notes
- Texture - smoothness, crumble, firmness
- Character - a clear identity in every bite
- Craft - evidence of careful, hands-on making
Our cheeses are made in small batches using traditional methods and local milk. These awards are a testament to that approach - and to the people behind it.
