What is Somerset Brie?
Somerset Brie Cheese is a white, bloomy-rind cheese made using traditional British methods. It’s crafted mainly from cow’s milk and matured until it develops that soft, velvety outer layer and an intense, creamy interior we all love in a Brie.
Unlike its French cousin, Somerset Brie has a unique character influenced by the lush green pastures of Somerset. The milk used carries the gentle flavour of the countryside, which gives the cheese a fresh, grassy undertone. It’s often considered milder than French Brie but still rich and creamy with buttery notes and a light mushroom scent near the rind.
We’ve tasted many Bries, and Somerset Brie is among our favourites for its balance of creaminess with a soft, edible rind that adds just a hint of earthiness. It spreads beautifully on bread, melts well, and pairs with both savoury and sweet sides.
How is Somerset Brie Made?
Somerset Brie is made using full-fat cow’s milk and follows a process that has been used for decades in British cheese making. Skilled cheesemakers start by gently heating the milk before adding rennet, a natural ingredient that helps curdle and thicken it. Once the curds form and separate from the whey, they’re cut and stirred, then moved into moulds.
These moulds allow the whey to drain slowly, leaving behind the delicate curd that forms the Brie’s signature texture. The cheese is later turned and salted to develop flavour, then left to mature for around four to six weeks. During this time, the white rind forms naturally as the surface grows a bloomy mould. This rind is edible and adds to the depth of flavour.
Somerset Brie is made on smaller dairies, not in large factories, and that gives each batch a little personality of its own. You can find some of the best examples by browsing our artisan cheese selection, which features cheeses made with knowledge passed down through generations.
Best Ways to Enjoy Somerset Brie
The soft, yielding texture and rich flavour of Somerset Brie mean it can play many roles on your plate. We think the best way to savour it is at room temperature. This lets the cheese relax and the full flavours develop.
Slice a wedge and spread it over warm, crusty bread or sourdough crackers. Add a spoonful of red onion chutney or spiced fig relish, and you’ve got a quick bite that feels luxurious. We also enjoy adding Somerset Brie to a simple cheese board with fresh grapes, apple slices and nuts.
If you’re in the mood for cooking, melt it over roasted vegetables or stir small pieces into scrambled eggs just before serving. It’s delicious in tarts, sandwiches, or even baked in pastry with a cranberry jelly centre. It will go gooey in no time and pairs very well with chicken, mushroom dishes, and creamy soups.
When hosting friends, Somerset Brie is great as the centrepiece of a cheeseboard. Pick a few British cheeses from our English cheese collection alongside it for a full tasting experience.
What to Pair with Somerset Brie
We love that Somerset Brie can play nicely with a variety of drinks and side ingredients. One of the easiest pairings is with fresh fruit like apples, grapes, or sliced pears. For something richer, try honey-drizzled walnuts or almonds.
On the drinks side, the smooth texture of Somerset Brie makes it a fine match for a glass of sparkling wine, English cider, or even a strong ale. If you’re into wines, go for light reds like Pinot Noir or whites like Sauvignon Blanc. It balances the creaminess without overpowering the cheese.
There’s no need for anything fancy, just a few well-chosen ingredients and some excellent cheese. Explore our trusted picks at Cheese Shop Nantwich to find perfect pairings.
Where to Buy Genuine Somerset Brie
Finding a truly delicious Somerset Brie means choosing a shop that understands the value of handcrafted produce. At Cheese Shop Nantwich, we specialise in offering hard-to-find British cheeses made by small dairies and passionate artisans.
We know how much of a difference it makes when a cheese is cut fresh from a full wheel, rather than pre-packed in plastic. That’s why our cut cheese range of English favourites includes hand-cut wedges of Somerset Brie and other local gems. When you buy from us, you get a fresh and creamy texture that melts in the mouth, with a soft white rind that’s still blooming.
Fun Ways to Serve Somerset Brie at Home
Entertaining with Somerset Brie can be fun and creative. Here are some easy serving ideas we often use at home:
- Baked Somerset Brie: Wrap in puff pastry or phyllo, add cranberry or apricot jam, and bake until golden. Delicious with crusty bread.
- Cheese & Picnic Boxes: Cut into cubes or slices and include it in summer picnic boxes with mixed olives, salami, and nuts.
- Toastie Upgrade: Add to a ham and cheese toastie for a creamy twist.
- Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms: Bake mushroom caps filled with Somerset Brie and chopped herbs.
- Warm Brie Salad: Melt thin strips of Somerset Brie over roasted beetroot salad or baby spinach leaves.
Don’t be afraid to experiment. The cheese has a gentle profile that adapts well to both sweet and savoury combinations.
How Long Does Somerset Brie Last?
A fresh wedge of Somerset Brie should be eaten within a few days once the wrapper is opened. Stored properly in the fridge (wrapped in wax paper or kept in a cheese paper pouch), it will stay fresh and creamy for about 5-7 days.
Do check the “best before” date on your cheese and give it a sniff once you’ve opened it. A mild mushroom smell is normal, but if it smells sour or has a dark rind, it may have gone too far.
If you buy larger portions from our cut cheese selection, consider cutting into smaller sections and wrapping each piece individually before storing.
FAQs
Is the rind on Somerset Brie edible?
Yes, it is. The white, bloomy rind is formed naturally and is safe to eat. It also gives extra flavour, especially when the cheese is closer to room temperature.
Can you freeze Somerset Brie?
You can, but we don’t recommend it if you’re planning to eat it on its own. Freezing may affect the texture. It’s fine for cooking, though, such as melting into sauces or baked dishes.
Is Somerset Brie vegetarian?
Some versions are made with vegetarian rennet, and some with animal rennet. Always check the label or ask us at Cheese Shop Nantwich. We clearly label our cheese selections for vegetarian-friendly options.
Is Somerset Brie pasteurised?
Most Somerset Brie sold in the UK is pasteurised, but some artisan versions might use raw milk. If you’re pregnant or have specific dietary needs, check with your cheesemonger.
What cheeses are similar to Somerset Brie?
If you enjoy Somerset Brie, you might also like Cornish Brie, Baron Bigod, Tunworth, or even a soft French Camembert. Ask us to suggest a few at your next visit. We love helping people find new favourites.
Wrapping Up Somerset Brie
Somerset Brie is more than just a British version of a French classic. It’s a soft, creamy, and delicately flavoured cheese with deep roots in the English countryside. Whether you’re spreading it on crusty bread, baking it for a crowd, or enjoying it by candlelight with a cool drink, this cheese has the power to make any moment better.
We invite you to explore handmade artisan cheeses and, most of all, try a piece of Somerset Brie today. Visit Cheese Shop Nantwich, either in person or online, and add something special to your cheese board.
Ready to get snacking? Grab your perfect cut of Somerset Brie right now from our English cheese collection.
