The Distinctive Joy of Artisan Cheese
Cheese is one of the most versatile foods in the world. From toasted sandwiches and rich pasta dishes to cheese boards paired with wine, it’s loved all over the globe. But not all cheese is created equal. The difference between an artisan cheese and a commercially made one can be as stark as the difference between a homemade pie and one from a supermarket freezer.
At The Cheese Shop Nantwich, we’ve tasted and shared cheese from every corner of the UK and beyond. We’ve come to truly appreciate what makes artisan cheese not just different but better in so many ways. So let’s explore what sets artisan and specialist cheeses apart, why they taste incredible, and how they represent more than just food.
What Does Artisan Cheese Really Mean?
When we talk about artisan cheese, we’re referring to cheese made using traditional techniques. These methods often include hand-moulding, small-batch production, and a close connection between the maker and the ingredients. Specialist cheese shares these traits too, but it may also reflect a certain expertise in developing unexpected and exciting flavours using rare ingredients or unique production styles.
Both are usually made in small dairies, often by families or expert cheesemakers who take pride in every element of their craft. These cheeses are shaped by human hands, not machines, and are almost always made using local milk, sometimes even from a single herd.
You’ll often find that the milk is unpasteurised, or only gently pasteurised, giving the cheese a deeper connection to the land and animals behind it. If you’re interested in discovering this level of flavour, we have a wide selection of artisan cheeses from across the UK and Europe waiting for you to try.
Mass-Produced vs Artisan: What’s the Real Difference?
Commercial cheese is usually made in large factories with hundreds of thousands of litres of milk at a time. These operations focus on consistency, speed, shelf life, and cost. They use pasteurised milk, industrial cultures, preservatives, and sometimes colourings to create a product that stays the same taste and texture, year after year.
Now, this might work if all you want is cheese that melts well on toast or pizza, but something gets lost along the way. The complexity, regional character, and natural flavour just aren’t the same.
Artisan cheese, by contrast, celebrates the seasons. It allows for changes in the milk depending on the time of year, what the animals have been eating, and how the cheese is handled during its ageing process. This means each wheel or wedge can taste slightly different, and that’s what makes every bite so interesting. You’re not just eating food, you’re tasting a place and a tradition.
Flavour and Texture: A World of Possibility
Artisan cheese stands out because of its flavour and texture. Instead of relying on artificial flavourings, every element of taste comes naturally, from the milk itself and the ageing process. Cheesemakers use traditional methods like open vats, hand-cutting the curds, and natural rinds to let the cheese develop in a way that brings out its full potential.
The type of milk, whether cow, goat, sheep, or even buffalo, also plays a role. And with our range of soft cheeses, hard cheeses, and vegetarian options at The Cheese Shop Nantwich, it’s easy to see just how varied cheese can be.
Just like wine reflects the soil and climate where the grapes are grown, cheese can express its origin through taste. A Somerset cheddar, a creamy Cornish brie, or a tangy blue from Yorkshire all taste so different because of where and how they are made.
How a Cheesemonger Helps You Discover Better Cheese
You don’t need to be an expert to enjoy great cheese, but it helps to know someone who is. That’s where your local cheesemonger comes in. At The Cheese Shop Nantwich, we love nothing more than helping people explore new tastes.
A cheesemonger isn’t just someone who sells cheese. It’s someone who understands its shape, feel, smell, and history. We can guide you to discover something brand new. Whether you love gooey soft cheeses or prefer a firm, crumbly wedge, a good cheesemonger can help you choose from options like regional English cheeses or even a bold, rich organic variety.
And if you want to try new cheeses every month, our cheese club might be just what you need.
How Tradition Shapes Taste
One of the reasons artisan cheese tastes so unique is that it leans on time-honoured traditions. Whether it’s ageing a raw milk cheese in underground caves or rubbing rinds with mead or herbs, these techniques go back hundreds of years.
Many cheeses have deep cultural roots. Think of the history behind Wensleydale or the way French Roquefort must be aged in specific caves. These practices are not just for show – they’re responsible for the intense character of the final taste and texture.
Several artisan producers are protected by law through designations like PDO (Protected Designation of Origin). This means the cheese can only be made using specific methods, in defined areas. It’s a sign of quality, care, and heritage.
Why More People are Choosing Artisan Cheese
People today are more thoughtful about what goes on their plate. They’re shopping for foods that support small-scale farmers, care about animal welfare, and use fewer additives.
Artisan cheese fits right into this thinking. These cheeses are traceable, seasonal, and often come from dairies with higher animal welfare and environmentally-friendly farming. At The Cheese Shop Nantwich, we’ve noticed more customers choosing vegan cheese and other dietary-focused options, too.
There’s also a growing appetite for speciality products like those in our deli and antipasti selection, which pair beautifully with fine cheeses. People are not just buying to eat, they’re putting together experiences, events, tasting boards, gifts, and celebrations.
The Cheesemonger’s Role in Preserving Heritage
Behind every wedge of artisan cheese is someone who chose to honour old methods. By staying small-scale, these producers keep jobs in local areas, keep crafts alive, and help communities grow.
A cheesemonger helps carry these traditions forward. We connect great cheesemakers with people who appreciate flavour, quality, and story. By supporting artisan producers, we’re helping keep their craft alive for future generations. Plus, the cheese simply tastes better.
Artisan Cheese is More Than Just Food
Artisan cheese tells a story. It reflects the land, the cows or goats or sheep, the time of year, and the care of the maker. Every bite is a celebration of skill, history, and taste.
When you choose artisan cheese, you support something better: better milk, better care for animals, better environmental practices, and better communities. You can feel good about eating it, sharing it, and learning more about it.
At The Cheese Shop Nantwich, we’re proud to offer a range of artisan cheeses that show off the very best of local and international crafts. So whether you’re just beginning your journey or you’ve been enjoying specialist cheeses for years, we’re here to help you find something wonderful.
FAQs
What is the difference between artisan cheese and specialist cheese?
Artisan cheese is focused on traditional, handmade techniques, while specialist cheese can include unusual ingredients or expert manipulation to create unique flavours. Often, a cheese will be both artisan and specialist.
Is artisan cheese always unpasteurised?
Not always. Some artisan cheeses are made with raw milk, while others use gently pasteurised milk. The focus is more on natural, small-batch production than on the milk treatment itself.
Does artisan cheese have a shorter shelf life than supermarket cheese?
Sometimes, yes. Because artisan cheese avoids preservatives and artificial additives, it’s more sensitive. But when stored well, it can last nicely and improve in flavour.
Can I still eat artisan cheese if I’m a vegetarian or a vegan?
Yes. We stock vegetarian cheese made with microbial rennet instead of animal rennet, and also a wide collection of vegan cheese for those avoiding all animal products.
What’s the best way to serve artisan cheese?
Bring it to room temperature before serving. Pair with some crusty bread, a bit of fruit or chutney, and maybe something from our deli antipasti range to complete the plate.
At The Cheese Shop Nantwich, we believe great cheese should never be ordinary. Artisan cheese is something special. It’s the result of hard work, skill, and passion, and it’s made to be enjoyed. Thank you for supporting small producers and tasting the difference that care and tradition bring.
Ready to explore the world of artisan cheese? Dive into our full collection and find your new favourite today.
