• Drunk Monk Cheese - Norfolk Deli
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Kaasboerderij ’t Groendal

Drunk Monk Cheese

Drunk Monk Cheese

£13.40 GBP
£13.40 GBP
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Key Facts

Region: West Flanders, Belgium

Milk: Cow’s milk (Holstein and Brown Swiss)

Type: Washed rind (Belgian blonde ale washed)

Texture: Semi-soft, silky, and creamy

Pasteurisation: Pasteurised

Strength

● ● ● ○ ○ Medium

Size
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The Cheesemonger’s Notes

Belgian beer-washed cheese with silky texture and rich, buttery complexity

Drunk Monk is a distinctive Belgian washed rind cheese made by fourth-generation cheesemakers at Kaasboerderij ’t Groendal, under the guidance of Johan Deweer and his family. Produced using milk from their own herd of Holstein and Brown Swiss cows, this cheese reflects both deep farming heritage and modern artisan craft.

What makes Drunk Monk truly unique is its rind, which is washed during maturation with “Rex,” a specially brewed Belgian blonde ale created in collaboration with affineur Van Tricht and Brouwerij Anders. This beer wash encourages the development of complex flavours while contributing to the cheese’s distinctive character and appearance.

Matured for around five to seven weeks, Drunk Monk develops a semi-soft, supple texture that becomes fudgy and almost gooey at peak ripeness. The flavour is rich and creamy, with buttery sweetness balanced by gentle savoury depth and subtle yeasty, brioche-like notes from the beer wash. A faint bitterness on the finish adds balance and complexity.

This is a cheese that perfectly reflects Belgium’s world-renowned brewing and cheesemaking traditions — bold, expressive, and deeply satisfying.

Perfect Pairings

• Belgian blonde ale or IPA
• Crusty bread or sourdough
• Apple chutney or fruit preserves
• Creamy Chardonnay
• Sparkling wine or Champagne

Ideal Uses

• Melted into sandwiches or burgers
• Perfect for fondue
• Served warm on crusty bread
• Added to macaroni cheese
• A standout addition to washed rind cheese boards

Why We Stock It

Drunk Monk represents the creative intersection of two great Belgian traditions: brewing and cheesemaking. The beer-washed rind adds complexity while enhancing the cheese’s natural richness, creating something both distinctive and highly enjoyable.

At The Norfolk Deli, we seek out cheeses that offer genuine character and craftsmanship. Drunk Monk delivers both — a cheese that tells a story of heritage, innovation, and flavour in every bite.

  • Cut Fresh, Just for You

    Every cheese is hand-cut at our counter on the day your order is prepared. Because we cut by hand, weights are as accurate as possible but remain approximate — think artisan precision, not factory uniformity

  • Trusted Cheesemonger

    For over 12 years, The Norfolk Deli has been immersed in cheese, recognised nationally as one of the country’s inspirational independent cheesemongers. Every cheese is selected and cut with care

  • Serving Guide

    As part of a cheeseboard, 250g typically serves 2–4 people. For gatherings of 4–6, a selection of three to five cheeses creates a more generous and varied board

The Norfolk Deli

Answering your everyday cheese questions

How long will this cheese last?

All cheeses are cut fresh at the counter and dispatched in insulated packaging.

For the best flavour, we recommend enjoying within 5–7 days of delivery. Hard cheeses may last longer if stored correctly.

How should I store this cheese?

Keep refrigerated in its original wrapping or waxed paper. Avoid airtight plastic containers. Always bring to room temperature 30–45 minutes before serving for the best flavour and texture.

Is this cheese suitable for freezing?

We don’t recommend freezing soft or blue cheeses as it can affect texture. Hard cheeses may be frozen for cooking purposes, but flavour is best when enjoyed fresh.

What if my cheese has mould on it?

Mould is a natural part of many artisan cheeses.

If the cheese is meant to have a white rind, blue veining or natural mould, this is completely normal and part of its character.

If you notice surface mould on a hard cheese, it can usually be trimmed away safely — simply cut at least 1cm around and beneath the mould.

If mould appears on a soft cheese that is not intended to have mould, or if you are unsure, please contact us and we will advise.

We only dispatch cheeses in excellent condition, selected at peak maturity.

Is this cheese safe during pregnancy?

Pasteurised cheeses are generally considered safe. If a cheese is unpasteurised, this will be clearly stated in the Key Facts section. If unsure, please consult current NHS guidance

Can I request a specific size?

Weights are approximate to ensure fairness and quality. If you require a specific size for an event, please contact us before ordering.

Can this cheese be included in a hamper or cheeseboard selection?

Yes. Many of our cheeses are available in curated cheeseboards, gift hampers or our Cheesemonger’s Selection.