Milleens Cheese

Milleens is a celebrated Irish artisan cheese, renowned for its soft texture and complex flavor profile. Originating from the Beara Peninsula in County Cork, Ireland, this cheese is a testament to the art of traditional cheesemaking. Milleens is made from cow's milk and is characterized by its creamy, almost runny interior and a natural, edible rind that develops a distinctive orange hue due to the growth of Brevibacterium linens. The cheese's appearance is rustic, with a slightly irregular shape that reflects its handmade nature. Milleens is celebrated for its ability to capture the essence of its terroir, offering a unique taste of the Irish landscape.

Milleens cheese was first created in the late 1970s by Veronica Steele, who is often credited with sparking the revival of farmhouse cheesemaking in Ireland. Steele, inspired by French cheese-making traditions, sought to create a cheese that reflected the unique qualities of her local environment. Milleens quickly gained acclaim for its distinctive flavor and artisanal quality, becoming a symbol of Ireland's burgeoning artisan food movement. Today, it is produced by Veronica's son, Quinlan Steele, who continues the family tradition, ensuring that Milleens remains a beloved and iconic Irish cheese.

Milleens cheese is made from the milk of Friesian cows that graze on the lush pastures of the Beara Peninsula. The milk is gently pasteurized before being inoculated with a starter culture and rennet to initiate curdling. The curds are then hand-ladled into molds, a process that contributes to the cheese's unique texture. After molding, the cheese is aged for several weeks in a humid environment, during which it is regularly turned and washed with a brine solution. This encourages the growth of the characteristic orange rind and develops the cheese's complex flavors.

Milleens offers a rich and buttery flavor with a tangy, slightly nutty undertone. The aroma is earthy and pungent, indicative of its washed rind. The texture is luxuriously creamy, becoming almost liquid at room temperature, which makes it a delight to spread. The rind adds a subtle sharpness, balancing the cheese's overall richness.

Milleens pairs beautifully with a variety of foods and beverages. Traditional pairings include crusty bread, fresh fruits like apples and pears, and nuts, which complement its creamy texture and rich flavor. For drinks, a glass of full-bodied red wine, such as a Pinot Noir or a Syrah, enhances the cheese's complexity. Beer enthusiasts might enjoy it with a Belgian Dubbel or a stout, which can stand up to its bold flavors. For a non-alcoholic option, a dark, malty ale or a sparkling cider can also be delightful.