RED LECIESTER
UNITED KINDOM
Red Leicester, pronounced "Red Lester," is a distinctive British cheddar known for its crumbly texture and rich, complex flavor. It offers a sweet, yet nutty aftertaste, making it a favorite among cheese enthusiasts. This particular variety is aged for a minimum of 12 months, developing a powdery mold on its rind. The addition of annatto seeds imparts the cheese's signature vibrant orange hue.
Red Leicester pairs beautifully with full-bodied red wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, and Merlot, as well as robust ales. Its sharpness is complemented by fresh fruits like apples and grapes, adding a refreshing balance. Traditionally, Red Leicester is a key component of an English ploughman’s lunch, where it is served alongside free-range ham, pork terrine, cornichons, pickled onions, relish, fresh apples or pears and fresh bread. This combination of flavors highlights the cheese’s versatility and timeless appeal.
Use Red Leicester in your next ploughman's lunch for a light and fulfilling meal.
Sight: Deep orange, clothy rind
Touch: Firm and crumbly
Smell: Earthy, natural cloth mould
Taste: Sharp, bitey & slightly nutty
Goes well with: Heritage hams, apples, pears, relishes, sourdough bread, rye bread, crisp cider, lager/beers, shiraz, dark chocolate