After over 12 months of lockdown, we can now look back at how we all spent our time and for many it seems that Cheese On Toast was an important presence in our lockdown lives!

According to The Grocer, home consumption of cheese rose by 48 per cent last year and another recent survey also showed the Cheese on Toast was the 'king of snacks' during lockdown. In honour of this lockdown saviour, The Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company shares how to create the ultimate 'Cheddar Gorge Cheese' on Toast and why this is not the end for Cheese on Toast. 

The most traditional and easily grilled cheese for the legendary Cheese on Toast is usually cheddar cheese. When searching for the perfect cheddar, it's usually flavour and texture that is key. The Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company therefore shares their top three cheddars to create the cheesiest of dishes, all traditionally produced in its natural birthplace; the village of Cheddar, Somerset. 

1. Vintage Cheddar – between 24 and 28 months old, this is a true 'Vintage' Cheddar. This award winning authentic cheddar is the ultimate cheese for making Cheese on Toast; good melting qualities with a distinctive strong flavour - “like cheddar used to taste”. This is a classic traditional cheddar cheese; hard in texture and with a rind – perfect for grating.
2. Mellow Cheddar – winning a Gold Medal at the Global Cheese Awards in 2019, this mellow cheddar, as the name suggests, is the youngest of The Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company's cheeses. It's a great choice for those with a more gentle palate! Cheese on Toast made with this younger cheddar results in plenty of character, yet the more creamy texture, results in a more runny 'grilled' finished product. Undoubtedly a traditional cheddar, through and through, it is stronger and more vibrant than the everyday mild cheddars available in most supermarkets.
3. Cheddar with Tomato & Red Onion – if looking to combine some added flavour, and even turn it into a Welsh Rarebit, this full of flavoured cheddar is the go to. It's gentle, tasty, yet mellow, leaving the flavours to develop on the tongue and last. The classic combination of red kibbled onion complements the sweet tomatoes beautifully; each bringing out the best in each other. Even more delicious grilled, on a slice of crispy toast. 

John and Katherine Spencer have been making traditional cheddar cheese in Cheddar, the birthplace of this world-famous cheese since 2003. Using only fresh local unpasteurised milk, they preserve the original character of its namesake. It is thanks to their production values and methods that they have reached nation-wide success and industry praise, boasting international awards and accolades.

They are also excited to announce that their shop and cheese tasting bar in Cheddar Gorge is officially open again. From 10:30 – 17:00 every day! Whether you call in to taste their range and find out more about their cheese, or if you're looking for that elusive present for the impossible-to-buy-for loved ones, you will have a warm welcome from their knowledgeable, friendly staff. 

To order one of The Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company's British cheddars, or to find out more information about how to visit their shop in Cheddar, Somerset, please visit: https://www.cheddaronline.co.uk/

 -ENDS- 

About The Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company:

The Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company is a family-owned business who are the only producers of cheddar cheese in the village of Cheddar, Somerset.  John and Katherine Spencer run this small artisan business which boasts international awards and accolades. 'Best Cheddar' at the British Cheese Awards in 2013 and the 'Champion Cheese' at the Devon County Show in 2017, in 2018 they won another Gold at The British Cheese Awards and The Great British Food Awards 2019 selected The Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company's Vintage cheddar as being Highly Commended by, none-other, Marcus Wareing! 

The Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company's produce is available to purchase at their shop in Cheddar Gorge, online or in specialist cheese shops across the country. For much more information about their story, their products and awards visit https://www.cheddaronline.co.uk

For daily updates & cheese inspiration, follow The Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company on social media: Twitter @CheddarCheeseCo, Instagram @cheddargorgecheeseco and Facebook @cheddargorgecheesecompany. 

For more information contact Dimitra Papoutsakis at Siren Communications:

dimitra.papoutsakis@sirencomms.com.