Village Maid Cheese
Spenwood
Shop, factory tour, tastings, workshop:
The Cottage, Basingstoke Road, Riseley, Reading, EnglandBuy online directly from the producer:
www.villagemaidcheese.co.uk/product-category/cheese/
World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2022, 2021
Culture Cheese Magazine Best Cheeses issue - Best
2023
Spenwood cheese, produced by Village Maid Cheese is a distinguished artisanal cheese crafted from unpasteurised ewe's milk using vegetarian rennet. This firm cheese is matured for about 7-8 months, developing a thin, natural rind during the process.
Its flavor profile is rich and nutty with sweet and savory notes, and it becomes more piquant and slightly crumbly as it ages, making it a great substitute for Parmesan in various dishes. Spenwood is often compared to Mediterranean cheeses like Pecorino and Manchego due to its texture and taste.
It has received significant recognition in the cheese world, having been awarded Super Gold at the World Cheese Awards.
About Village Maid Cheese
Village Maid Cheese, based in Riseley, England, was established by Anne Wigmore in 1986 after a decade of experience at the National Institute for Research in Dairying. The company is renowned for its artisanal cheeses, including the award-winning Wigmore, Waterloo, and Spenwood, which are all produced using traditional methods and milk from local farms committed to sustainability and animal welfare.
The cheese production at Village Maid emphasizes minimal changes to traditional methods over the years, focusing on handmade processes and environmental sustainability. For instance, they innovated by replacing disposable cheese cloths with a more sustainable alternative to reduce waste.
Their range of cheeses has received numerous accolades, reflecting their commitment to quality and craft. The company has grown significantly since its inception, moving to a larger facility in Riseley to accommodate increased production and introducing new products like Maida Vale.
This growth continues, all while maintaining a strong connection to local suppliers and sustainable practices.