Celebrating British Artisan Cheese and Wine on ITV's Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh
It was an exciting day for Rennet & Rind as we were featured on ITV's Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh! We couldn't be prouder to showcase some of the finest British cheeses in a delightful pairing with autumnal wines, bringing a true taste of the countryside to viewers. Joining Alan at Manor Farm was a wonderful lineup of guests, including tennis icon Sue Barker and actor Adrian Lukis, in a show that celebrated the very best of British heritage and seasonal delights.
In this edition of Love Your Weekend, the Best of British feature shone a spotlight on wines perfect for the autumn season, and what better complement than a carefully curated selection of British cheeses from Rennet & Rind? We're excited to share with you the cheeses we paired with those exquisite wines, as well as a glimpse behind the scenes of this delightful experience.
British Cheese & Wine Pairings: A Match Made in Heaven
The cheeses we featured on the show are some of the finest British artisanal products, each with its own rich history, unique flavor profile, and deep connection to the land. Here's a closer look at the trio we presented:
1. Baron Bigod with Truffle from Fen Farm Dairy
A luxurious brie-style cheese, Baron Bigod is already a favorite among cheese lovers for its rich, buttery texture and earthy notes. The addition of truffle takes this cheese to new heights, creating a complex, aromatic pairing when matched with a robust, earthy red wine. This cheese was a showstopper on the table, both for its flavor and its local, artisanal roots in Suffolk.
2. Ogleshield from Montgomery’s Cheddar
This semi-soft cheese, made from raw Jersey cow’s milk, is the perfect blend of creamy and nutty. Ogleshield has a wonderful meltability, making it ideal for raclette or grilled cheese, but it also stands beautifully on its own with a crisp white wine. Produced by the Montgomery family in Somerset, this cheese is a testament to the quality of British dairy craftsmanship.
3. Sheep Rustler from White Lake Cheese
A stunning sheep’s milk cheese with a subtle, sweet tang, Sheep Rustler is soft, creamy, and utterly delightful. It’s a great choice for those looking for something a little different from the usual cow’s milk varieties. Paired with a lighter, fruit-forward wine, this cheese brings out wonderful floral and honeyed undertones that make it a versatile and crowd-pleasing choice.
The Joy of Being Featured on National TV
Being featured on Love Your Weekend was an incredible opportunity for us to celebrate the artistry and passion behind British cheesemaking. Alan Titchmarsh’s show is all about celebrating the very best of British culture, from local traditions to seasonal produce, and we were honored to be part of this tradition.
The segment allowed us to highlight the intricate craftsmanship behind each cheese and the importance of supporting local dairies and cheesemakers. We believe in the value of bringing people together over a shared love of food, and what better way to do that than with a perfectly paired cheese and wine board?
Why British Cheeses Deserve the Spotlight
In recent years, British cheesemakers have made a name for themselves on the global stage, producing some of the world’s most exciting and innovative cheeses. From traditional cheddars to experimental new varieties, the British cheese scene is thriving. And it’s not just about taste – each cheese tells a story of place, tradition, and the people who make it.
At Rennet & Rind, we’re proud to work closely with the country's top cheesemakers to bring you cheeses that reflect the character of the British landscape. Whether it’s a creamy brie-style cheese from Suffolk or a sheep’s milk cheese from Somerset, there’s something truly special about supporting local dairies and the incredible artisans behind these creations.
A Final Toast
As the episode wrapped up, we couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride in seeing our cheeses celebrated on national television. It’s moments like these that remind us why we do what we do – to bring the best of British cheeses to your table, paired with love and passion.
If you didn’t catch the show live, make sure to tune in to the ITV Hub to see the full episode. And if you’re feeling inspired to create your own British cheese and wine board, we’re always here to help you find the perfect pairings. Cheers to celebrating the very best of British food and drink!
If you missed it, here's the link for catching up when it is available.