Lanark Blue: Scotland’s Pride in Artisan Blue Cheese
Lanark Blue cheese is the brainchild of Humphrey Errington, who set out in the 1980s to revive traditional Scottish cheesemaking. Drawing inspiration from the historic blue cheeses of France and Italy, Errington aimed to create a distinctly Scottish blue cheese that could stand alongside Europe’s finest. Lanark Blue is made from the unpasteurised milk of sheep raised on the lush pastures of Lanarkshire, which imparts a unique flavour profile not found in cheeses made from cow’s milk.
The production process of Lanark Blue is a careful blend of tradition and innovation. The cheese is handcrafted using techniques that date back centuries, adjusted slightly to accommodate modern tastes and standards. The curds are gently stirred and drained before being moulded and pierced to allow oxygen to penetrate the cheese, fostering the growth of Penicillium roqueforti, the mould that gives Lanark Blue its distinctive veining and sharp, tangy taste. The cheeses are then aged in controlled environments that mimic the natural humidity and temperature of traditional ageing caves, allowing the flavours to develop and intensify over time.
Tasting Profile
Lanark Blue is celebrated for its strikingly bold and complex flavour that is both earthy and tangy. The cheese’s texture is wonderfully creamy with a slightly crumbly core, making it a delightful experience on the palate. The initial taste is of a rich, intense blue cheese sharpness, mellowing into a more nuanced profile with hints of herbal and nutty undertones. As the cheese matures, it develops a deeper, more rounded flavour, sometimes with a slight peppery finish.
Pairing Suggestions
Pairing Lanark Blue can transform it from a simple cheese into a culinary centrepiece. Here are some suggestions to enhance your experience:
- Bold Reds: A full-bodied Shiraz or a robust Malbec can stand up to the intensity of Lanark Blue, complementing its rich flavours.
- Sweet Dessert Wines: The sweetness of a Port or a late-harvest Riesling contrasts beautifully with the saltiness of the cheese, creating a balanced flavour profile.
- Accompaniments: Fresh pears, figs, or a drizzle of honey cut through the richness and refresh the palate. Crusty baguettes or oatcakes provide a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy cheese. Walnuts or pecans bring a toasty element that pairs well with the earthy notes of the cheese.
- Non-Alcoholic Beverages: A sparkling apple cider or a robust brewed tea can be a refreshing companion that cleanses the palate, readying it for another delicious bite.
Similar Cheeses
For those who appreciate Lanark Blue, there are several other blue cheeses that offer similar taste profiles and culinary opportunities:
- Roquefort: This famed French blue cheese is made from sheep’s milk, like Lanark Blue, and is known for its intense, tangy flavours and a rich, creamy texture. Roquefort is slightly saltier, with a pronounced sheep milk flavour.
- Gorgonzola: An Italian blue cheese that comes in two varieties: Dolce (sweet and soft) and Piccante (sharp and crumbly). Both types provide a creamy mouthfeel with a bold, piquant taste that blue cheese lovers admire.
- Stilton: A British cheese that offers a milder, more earthy flavour compared to Lanark Blue. It’s creamy and crumbly with a distinctively rich aroma, making it a favourite among those who prefer a less sharp blue cheese.
Recipe Ideas
Lanark Blue cheese is a versatile ingredient that can enhance a variety of dishes. Here are some creative ways to use this distinctive cheese in your cooking:
- Lanark Blue and Pear Pizza: Top homemade pizza dough with slices of pear, crumbled Lanark Blue, and a sprinkling of walnuts for a delightful mix of sweet and savoury flavours.
- Steak with Lanark Blue Sauce: Melt Lanark Blue into a creamy sauce to drizzle over a perfectly cooked steak, adding a rich depth of flavour to the meat.
- Blue Cheese Dip: Combine crumbled Lanark Blue with sour cream, mayonnaise, and a touch of garlic for a tangy dip that pairs wonderfully with raw vegetables or crisped potato chips.
Visit Cheese Shop Nantwich
Discover the rich, bold flavours of Lanark Blue at Cheese Shop Nantwich. Whether you are a seasoned cheese aficionado or a curious newcomer, we invite you to explore our selection of Lanark Blue and other artisan cheeses. Our knowledgeable staff are always on hand to help you find the perfect cheese to suit your palate and culinary needs.
Visit us in-store or browse our selections online. With delivery available throughout the UK, it’s never been easier to enjoy high-quality cheeses right from the comfort of your home. Explore our Lanark Blue page to learn more and to place your order today. Experience the best of artisan cheese with Cheese Shop Nantwich.
