The Cheesemonger’s Notes
World Champion British Alpine-style cheese with rich caramel depth and exceptional refinement
Cornish Kern is a hard cow’s milk cheese made in Cornwall, inspired by Alpine-style cheeses. It has a firm, dense texture and a rich, nutty, slightly sweet flavour, with a long, savoury finish.
Cornish Kern is one of Britain’s most celebrated modern cheeses, created by Catherine Mead OBE and her team at Lynher Dairies in Cornwall. Crowned Supreme Champion at the World Cheese Awards 2017, Kern achieved global recognition as the finest cheese in the world — a remarkable achievement for British cheesemaking.
Inspired by Alpine traditions yet firmly rooted in Cornwall, Cornish Kern is made using cow’s milk and matured for around 16 months. During this time, the cheese develops a dense, slightly crystalline texture and exceptional depth of flavour. Alpine starter cultures contribute to its complexity, creating a cheese that balances richness with elegance.
The flavour is layered and refined, offering notes of sweet cream, toasted almonds, and deep caramel, complemented by gentle nuttiness and a long, savoury finish. Its firm yet creamy texture enhances the eating experience, delivering both structure and smoothness.
Encased in its distinctive black wax rind, Cornish Kern is a cheese of true distinction — combining craftsmanship, innovation, and world-class recognition.
Perfect Pairings
• Caramelised onion chutney
• Crusty sourdough or oatcakes
• Fresh pear or apple
• Full-bodied white wines such as Chardonnay
• Traditional cider or amber ale
Ideal Uses
• A centrepiece cheese for serious cheeseboards
• Perfect after-dinner cheese
• Excellent grated into savoury dishes
• Served simply to appreciate its complexity
• Ideal for lovers of Alpine-style cheeses
Why We Stock It
Cornish Kern represents the very pinnacle of British cheesemaking. Its World Champion status reflects the extraordinary skill, patience, and innovation behind its creation.
At The Norfolk Deli, we select cheeses that define excellence. Cornish Kern delivers exceptional flavour, texture, and pedigree — a cheese that stands proudly among the finest in the world.
Not sure if this is the right cheese for you?
Read our Hard Cheese Guide or learn how to talk to your cheesemonger
