Meredith Blue Cheese

artisanblue-veinedsheep's milkAustraliasoft cheesesemi-soft cheesegourmetcheese boardculinarypairingsAustraliasheep milk

Origin

Australia, Ballarat, Victoria

Milk Type

sheep

Texture

creamy

Flavor

mild, mushroomy, sweet

Aroma

fresh, goaty

Color

blue

Rind

natural

Vegetarian

No

Price Range

💰💰€15-30 per kg

What is Meredith Blue?

Meredith Blue is a distinguished artisan cheese hailing from Australia, specifically crafted from sheep's milk. This cheese is celebrated for its soft to semi-soft texture, adorned with the characteristic blue veins that are a hallmark of blue-veined cheeses. Its appearance is striking, with a creamy, pale interior crisscrossed by the blue mold, encased in a natural rind that adds to its rustic charm. Meredith Blue is a testament to the art of cheesemaking, offering a unique blend of flavors and textures that are both complex and harmonious.

History of Meredith Blue

Meredith Blue cheese is a relatively recent addition to the world of artisanal cheeses, emerging from the rich dairy traditions of Australia. Its creation is a nod to the classic European blue cheeses, adapted to the unique terroir of the Australian landscape. The cheese is named after the Meredith region, known for its lush pastures and high-quality sheep's milk. This cheese represents the innovative spirit of Australian cheesemakers, who have embraced traditional techniques while infusing their creations with local character and flair.

How Meredith Blue is Made

Meredith Blue is made exclusively from sheep's milk, which is known for its richness and depth of flavor. The milk is carefully curdled using traditional methods, and the curds are then inoculated with Penicillium roqueforti, the mold responsible for the cheese's distinctive blue veins. The cheese is aged in controlled environments, allowing the mold to develop and the flavors to mature. This process results in a cheese that is both creamy and crumbly, with a complex flavor profile that is enhanced by the aging process.

Flavor Profile

Meredith Blue offers a rich and tangy flavor, with a creamy texture that melts in the mouth. The blue veins contribute a sharp, slightly spicy note, balanced by the sweetness of the sheep's milk. The aroma is earthy and pungent, characteristic of blue-veined cheeses, with a hint of nuttiness that adds depth to its overall profile.

Perfect Pairings for Meredith Blue

Meredith Blue pairs beautifully with a variety of foods and beverages. It complements the sweetness of figs and pears, the crunch of walnuts, and the richness of dark chocolate. For drinks, a sweet dessert wine or a robust stout beer can balance its tangy flavor. It also makes an excellent addition to cheese boards, offering a bold contrast to milder cheeses.

Nutritional Information

Fat Content

High

Calcium Content

High

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Meredith Blue unique?

Its use of sheep's milk and the artisanal production process give it a distinctive flavor and texture.

How should Meredith Blue be stored?

Wrap it in wax paper and keep it in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and flavor.

Can Meredith Blue be used in cooking?

Yes, it melts beautifully and can add depth to sauces, pastas, and baked dishes.

Is Meredith Blue suitable for vegetarians?

It depends on the rennet used; some versions may be suitable for vegetarians.

How does Meredith Blue compare to Roquefort?

While both are blue-veined cheeses, Meredith Blue is made from sheep's milk and has a creamier texture and a slightly milder flavor.

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