Product Details
Location
Witheridge in Hay is produced by Nettlebed Creamery on their family-owned organic farm in Oxfordshire, England. The cheese is matured in hay that has been hand-cut from a biodiverse meadow of grasses and wildflowers on the farm — giving the cheese a strong sense of place, season and terroir.
Tasting
Witheridge in Hay has a unique flavour profile: floral and grassy notes from the hay rind, married with a sweet creaminess, savoury umami depth, and subtle fruity undertones. The texture is moist yet firm — supple and smooth — delivering a pleasing balance of rustic earthiness and refined richness.
Pairing
This cheese pairs beautifully with a floral, dry cider or a crisp white wine, which complements its grassy and sweet-savory notes. It also works well with fresh or dried fruit, roasted nuts, crusty or grainy bread, oatcakes, or even a spoonful of quince jelly or a mild fruit preserve. For a more robust contrast, try it with pickled pears or charcuterie — its depth and complexity stand up well to stronger flavours.
Recipe
Grate or thinly slice Witheridge in Hay over roasted vegetables or a warm risotto to give the dish a gentle grassy, brothy, and slightly sweet-savory complexity.
Use it in a rustic tart or quiche along with seasonal greens or mushrooms — its depth and subtle hay-inflected flavour add character without overpowering.
Serve simple slices on crusty bread or crackers, accompanied by fresh fruit, nuts or chutney for a farmhouse-style snack or starter that pairs its creamy/savoury profile with contrasting textures and flavours.
Extra Information
– Region: Oxfordshire, England, UK
– Milk: Cow’s (organic)
– Milk Treatment: Pasteurised
– Suitable for pregnant women: Generally no (because hay-aged/organic cheese is often classified as not recommended — check producer and regulatory guidance)
– Vegetarian: No (uses animal rennet)
– Style: Semi-hard / hard, organic, hay-aged cheese with natural rind
– Storage and Serve: Keep refrigerated below ~8 °C. Once you cut the cheese, wrap it well (e.g. in wax or greaseproof paper) and consume within a week. Best served at or near room temperature to allow the full aromas and texture to emerge.
Ingredients
Organic cows’ milk, salt, starter cultures, rennet, organic hay (as rind/affinage material)
Allergens
Milk
