Description
Gorwydd Caerphilly Cheese
About Gorwydd Caerphilly
Gorwydd Caerphilly is a top choice of mine for Welsh-style cheeses. It achieves both freshness and savoriness, with a balanced profile that invites repeated tastings. Though rooted in tradition, Gorwydd Caerphilly is truly about reviving excellence, merging heritage with modern cheesemaking at its finest.
The History
The name Caerphilly comes from the town in South Wales, which was once a real hub for cheesemaking. Back in the 19th century, this cheese was made to keep coal miners going through long shifts. It matured quickly, developing that classic crumbly texture and gentle flavour in no time at all; perfect for hungry workers and easy on the pocket. Traditionally, Caerphilly was eaten young, often just a few weeks old.
The ‘Gorwydd’ comes from Gorwydd Farm, where cheesemaker Todd Trethowan began in the late 20th century to restore authentic Caerphilly. At that time, genuine Caerphilly had nearly disappeared, replaced by bland commercial cheese. Todd set out to resurrect the farmhouse style, and I believe he’s accomplished this superbly.
The name reflects both Welsh tradition and its revival; Caerphilly for heritage, Gorwydd for the farm where it returned. Unlike factory versions, Gorwydd Caerphilly is handmade, with priority given to the care and attention given to every wheel. The cheesemakers even use reclaimed Victorian presses to shape the cheeses, maintaining their distinctive character.
The Make
Gorwydd Caerphilly is lovingly made from local cow’s milk and typically matures for around 3 months. Notably, it develops three distinct layers: a mushroomy, edible rind, then a creamy, almost luscious layer just beneath the rind, and a crumbly, vibrant core. The natural rind looks rustic, dusted with a velvety mould that enhances its earthy aroma.
The Trethowan Brothers are traditionalists. They hand-ladle the cheese curds and patiently drain and age their cheeses. This meticulous process distinguishes Gorwydd Caerphilly from factory-produced alternatives, which often lack character and complexity.
Gorwydd Caerphilly – Jen’s Tasting Notes
This Caerphilly is full of flavour despite its youth. The aroma is fresh dairy, mushroom earthiness, and citrus zing, showing both freshness and some age.
The first bite brings a bright, lemony kick, classic for Caerphilly. The tanginess eases into richer, buttery, and toasted-nut flavours. The creamy section is especially tempting, while the core stays crumbly and fresh. The rind adds earthy, mushroom notes for depth. Aged longer, savoury flavours intensify, and texture softens.
Gorwydd Caerphilly balances freshness with maturity. It appeals to both casual cheese lovers and connoisseurs.
How to Serve and Pair Gorwydd Caerphilly
- Make sure you take it out of the fridge a good hour before you want to eat it so it can come up to room temperature.
- Classic pairings: A crisp, dry British cider matches the cheese’s freshness and cuts the richness.
- Something a little different: White wines like Sauvignon Blanc or lightly oaked Chardonnay bring out the cheese’s citrussy, buttery notes.
- On the plate: On a cheese board, Gorwydd Caerphilly shines with crusty bread, oatcakes, or plain crackers. Fresh apples or pears add a sweet contrast, and spicy or tangy chutney works well.
- In the kitchen: Crumble it over salads for texture and flavour; especially with peppery greens like rocket or watercress. Melt it into dishes for a gentle tang and creaminess that won’t dominate. You can even substitute it for feta if you want something different.
Jen’s note: For a truly Welsh twist, try it with bara brith or cured meats. The blend of sweet, savoury, and tangy flavours is totally gorgeous.
Buying Gorwydd Caerphilly
- Brand or Producer: Trethowan Brothers Dairy
- Product name: Gorwydd Caerphilly
- Milk: Cow
- Country: England
- Region: Somerset
- Strength: Medium
- Vegetarian: No
- Suitable for pregnancy: No
- Allergens: MILK
Sizes and Prices
- 100g wedge, £4.15
- 500g wedge, £20.75
- Whole cheese (approx. 4kg), available to pre-order
Storage Advice
- Keep refrigerated
- Wrap in waxed paper or cling film
- Remove from the fridge before serving
- Consume within 10 to 14 days of opening
Delivery and Collection
- UK wide courier delivery
- Click and collect from our Pangbourne shop
- Free local delivery available for selected postcodes
Ingredients (Allergens are listed in capitals)
MILK, salt, starter cultures, rennet
