Sparkenhoe is the only raw milk Red Leicester cheese still produced in the UK. It’s made using traditional methods, including muslin cloth wrapping and aging for up to 24 months, restoring the heritage of Red Leicester as it was made centuries ago.
THINGS THAT WE SELL THAT COMPLIMENT SPARKENHOE RED LEICESTER
What Perry thinks of Sparkenhoe Red Leicester?
Frequently asked questions about Sparkenhoe
What makes Sparkenhoe Red Leicester truly authentic?
Why is Sparkenhoe Red Leicester orange?
The vibrant russet hue comes from annatto, a natural colouring derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. Traditionally, annatto was used to signify the richness of milk used in the cheese, as creamier milk yields deeper colours.
How does Sparkenhoe Farm produce sustainable cheese?
Sparkenhoe Farm practices regenerative agriculture, which focuses on soil health and biodiversity. The cows graze on diverse pastures rich in clover and herbs, reducing the need for chemical fertilisers and improving the overall ecosystem.
What does Sparkenhoe Red Leicester taste like?
Sparkenhoe offers a bold and savoury flavour with nutty and umami notes. Its flaky texture melts in the mouth, revealing subtle tanginess and a long-lasting depth of flavour that intensifies as the cheese matures.
Can Sparkenhoe Red Leicester be used in cooking?
Yes, Sparkenhoe is excellent for cooking. Its robust flavour enhances cheese sauces, Welsh rarebit, or cheese-filled pastries. Grate it over shepherd’s pie or use it in a rich macaroni and cheese for a delicious twist. Perry actually loves it to finish his homemade pizza. Just a little sprinkle then into the Pizza oven tends to add a serious amount of depth!
How does Sparkenhoe compare to other Red Leicester cheeses?
Unlike most commercial Red Leicester cheeses, which are mild and factory-made, Sparkenhoe is aged traditionally in cloth, yielding a more complex and robust flavour. It’s also made from raw milk, giving it a richness and character unmatched by pasteurised alternatives. Most people remark " this feels like the first time I've ever had Red leicester!"
What is the history behind Sparkenhoe Red Leicester?
Sparkenhoe was revived in 2005 by David and Jo Clarke, who brought back traditional Red Leicester cheesemaking to Sparkenhoe Farm. Using raw milk and traditional methods, they restored this lost heritage to its original glory
What pairs well with Sparkenhoe Red Leicester?
Sparkenhoe pairs beautifully with:
Fruity chutneys or pickled onions.
Crusty bread or oatcakes.
Malty ales or a robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon. Its nutty profile also pairs well with crisp apples.
How is Sparkenhoe made unique by its cows?
The cheese is made from the milk of Holstein-Friesian cows grazing on diverse pastures at Sparkenhoe Farm. The cows are part of a pedigree herd and enjoy a mix of clover-rich grass in the summer and silage made from homegrown crops during winter, ensuring consistently high-quality milk.
What awards has Sparkenhoe Red Leicester won?
Sparkenhoe has been celebrated for its authenticity and quality, earning accolades such as ‘Best Territorial Cheese’ at the British Artisan Cheese Awards 2023, highlighting its excellence as a traditional, handmade cheese.