Ep 6. Cheddar - England

Cheese Slices is a fascinating show that delves into the world of cheeses from different regions of the world. In season 1, episode 6, we take a closer look at Cheddar from England.

The episode starts with the host, Will Studd, traveling to Somerset, England, to visit one of the oldest Cheddar cheese makers in the world, Barber’s Farmhouse Cheese. Studd meets up with the owner, Graham Barber, who takes him through the process of making Cheddar cheese. Barber explains that their cheddar is made using traditional methods and that they have been doing it for over 200 years. Studd watches with amazement as the cheese is made from start to finish.

Once the cheese is made, Studd and Barber head to the cheese aging room where they explore the different stages of cheddar cheese aging. Studd learns that the aging process is what makes cheddar cheese unique and flavorful. Barber takes him through different stages of aging, ranging from 12 months to over 3 years. Studd gets to taste the different cheeses and is amazed at how different they all taste despite being made from the same ingredients.

The episode then takes us to a cheese shop in London where Studd meets the cheese buyer, Paxton and Whitfield. The shop has been around since 1797, and it is one of the oldest cheese shops in London. Studd and the cheese buyer explore the different cheddars from various regions of England. They discuss the different flavor profiles and textures of each cheese, from the crumbly cheddar to the creamy ones.

Studd then takes us to a cheddar factory in the city of Cheddar itself. The factory is called Wyke Farms and they are the largest independent cheese producer in the UK. Studd meets up with the owner, Rich Clothier, who takes him through the process of making their award-winning cheddar. Studd learns about the different equipment used in the factory and how they have modernized the cheddar making process to meet modern demand.

The episode then takes a surprising turn as Studd travels to the US to visit a cheddar factory located in Wisconsin. The factory is called Hook’s Cheese Company, and they specialize in making aged cheddars. The owner, Tony Hook, explains that their cheddars are aged for up to 20 years. Studd is amazed at the dedication and patience required to wait 20 years for cheese to age.

There is also a section in the episode about how cheddar cheese became popular in the US. Studd explains that when English settlers came to America, they brought along their cheddar cheese. This led to cheddar cheese becoming one of the most popular types of cheese in the US.

Overall, this episode of Cheese Slices provides a fascinating insight into the world of Cheddar cheese. From the traditional cheddar makers to the modern cheddar factories, this episode takes us on a journey to explore the flavors and textures of one of the world’s favorite cheeses. If you are a cheese lover or simply curious about different types of cheese, this episode is a must-watch.