The Cheesemonger’s Notes
Barber’s Vintage Reserve 1833 Cheddar
An exceptionally mature Somerset Cheddar with crystalline texture and extraordinary depth of flavour
Barber’s Vintage Reserve 1833 is the flagship Cheddar of the Barber family, the world’s oldest surviving Cheddar makers, who have been producing cheese continuously since 1833 on their Somerset farm. Crafted using traditional methods and the finest West Country milk, this exceptional cheese represents nearly two centuries of cheesemaking expertise.
Made using milk from cows grazing the lush pastures of Somerset and Dorset, Barber’s 1833 reflects the richness and quality of West Country milk. The Barber family are also the sole guardians of the last remaining traditional Cheddar starter cultures in the country—natural bacteria that help shape the cheese’s distinctive texture, aroma, and flavour.
Each cheese is carefully cheddared by hand, pressed, and matured for a minimum of 24 months. Only when the Barber family judges a batch to have reached exceptional quality is it released as Vintage Reserve 1833. This extended maturation allows the cheese to develop remarkable complexity and depth.
The texture is firm yet smooth, with naturally occurring calcium crystals that provide a satisfying crunch and indicate proper maturation. The flavour is bold, rich, and beautifully balanced. Savoury depth and tangy sharpness are complemented by refined sweetness and nutty undertones, while the finish is long, smooth, and deeply satisfying.
Barber’s 1833 represents the pinnacle of traditional West Country Cheddar—combining historic starter cultures, exceptional milk, and careful maturation to produce a cheese of unrivalled character.
Cut to order at The Norfolk Deli, every piece is prepared fresh to ensure optimal flavour and condition.
Perfect Pairings
• Apple chutney or pickled walnuts
• Crusty sourdough or oatcakes
• Somerset cider
• Full-bodied red wines
Ideal Uses
• A standout centrepiece for cheeseboards
• Perfect for ploughman’s lunches
• Excellent enjoyed on its own
• Ideal for those who enjoy deeply matured Cheddar
Why We Stock It
Barber’s Vintage Reserve 1833 represents one of the longest continuous cheesemaking traditions in the world. Its extended maturation, traditional cultures, and exceptional milk produce a Cheddar of extraordinary depth and refinement.
