Artisan Cheddar cheesemaker Ford Farms, based in Dorchester, which specialises in making the very strongest varieties, has seen demand soar for extra mature and vintage types.
Demand for stronger Cheddar varieties is increasing in the UK, with sales of vintage and extra mature Cheddar rising while sales of mild and medium Cheddar are falling. This trend is attributed to a growing preference for spicier foods and has led cheesemakers and supermarkets to increase production and stock of stronger cheeses.
