Description
Dorset Red Cheese
About Dorset Red
Most British cheeses have tales stretching back centuries, but Dorset Red is a bit of a modern twist. It was dreamed up in the early 2000s by the cheesemakers at Ford Farm, who fancied giving a farmhouse favourite a smoky makeover. Although it’s a bit of a youngster next to some of our old British classics, it’s already making a name for itself on cheese boards up and down the country.
At Ford Farm, most of the cheesemaking is still done by hand, from the local milk right through to pressing and maturing. This careful, hands-on approach means Dorset Red keeps its special flavour and quality, and it’s picked up plenty of fans and a few awards along the way.
Annatto?
Annatto is a natural colouring that comes from the seeds of the achiote tree, which grows in the warm climates of Central and South America. Cheesemakers have been using it for centuries to give their cheeses that lovely golden or orange colour we all recognise. It doesn’t really change the flavour, which is probably why it’s still the go-to for traditional British cheeses like Red Leicester and Dorset Red. I always think it’s rather nice that something so simple and natural can make such a difference to how a cheese looks.
Dorset Red – Jen’s Tasting Notes
One thing I love about Dorset Red is how balanced it is. Unlike those really punchy aged cheddars or super smoky cheeses, Dorset Red is much more easy-going. The smokiness is mellow giving the cheese a gentle oak aroma and flavour, but it never overpowers. There’s a creamy, slightly tangy note too, so you get that classic dairy richness with just enough tang to keep things interesting. The texture is firm and pliable to it is easy to slice on a cheeseboard, and of course, that rich amber colour really makes it stands out.
How to Serve and Pair Dorset Red
- 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.
- Dorset Red is a real all-rounder when it comes to pairing. Some of my favourite matches are below, but it’s the sort of cheese that goes with just about anything.
- Pinot Noir is a great shout: its red fruit and gentle acidity go really nicely with the smoky richness, without taking over.
- But if you prefer white wine, try Muscadet or Soave. Their crisp, mineral flavours are a lovely contrast to the creamy cheese.
- Brown or amber ales are great too – that toasty maltiness works a treat with the smoke and creaminess.
- Dry cider is another winner, especially a proper English one with a fruity tang and refreshing acidity.
- On a charcuterie board, Dorset Red adds a bit of extra interest alongside cured meats, pickles and some good crusty bread.
- Try it with some tangy apple slices or a spoonful of fig chutney – both really show off the cheese’s creamy, smoky side.
Jen’s note: Dorset’s chalky soils and green pastures have been home to dairy herds for generations. Dorset Red might not have a fancy protected status, but it’s a great example of the region’s flair for making top-notch cheese.
Buying Dorset Red
- Brand or Producer: Ford Farm Dairy
- Product name: Dorset Red
- Milk: Cow
- Country: England
- Region: Dorset
- Strength: Medium
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Suitable for pregnancy: Yes
- Allergens: MILK
Sizes and Prices
- 100g wedge, £2.65
- 500g wedge, £13.25
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, starter cultures, vegetarian rennet, salt, natural smoke, annatto
