The Cheesemonger’s Notes
A legendary clothbound Somerset Cheddar with deep nutty richness and extraordinary depth of flavour
Montgomery’s Cheddar is one of Britain’s most revered traditional farmhouse Cheddars, made by Jamie Montgomery on his family farm in North Cadbury, Somerset. Produced using milk from the farm’s own Friesian herd and matured using time-honoured methods, it stands among the last remaining examples of authentic, clothbound, unpasteurised Somerset Cheddar.
The Montgomery family has been farming these pastures since 1911, and cheesemaking has remained central to the farm’s identity ever since. Today, Jamie Montgomery continues this legacy, crafting cheeses in small batches using traditional techniques that prioritise flavour, character, and authenticity over speed or uniformity.
Each cheese is made using a traditional pint starter culture—a natural method that encourages complex flavour development and ensures each batch reflects the individuality of the milk and season. After pressing, the cheeses are wrapped in muslin cloth and matured on wooden shelves for around 12 to 14 months. This slow maturation allows the cheese to develop its distinctive texture and depth.
The texture is firm and slightly crumbly, with the characteristic brittleness and small fissures that define traditional clothbound Cheddar. This structure allows the cheese to break cleanly while delivering a smooth, melting mouthfeel.
The flavour is rich, complex, and beautifully balanced. It opens with deep savoury notes and buttery richness before developing toasted nuttiness, gentle sweetness, and a long, lingering finish. Subtle earthy and caramelised notes emerge with maturity, giving Montgomery’s Cheddar remarkable depth and character.
Occasionally, small natural blue veins may appear—these are entirely normal in traditionally made clothbound Cheddar and are a sign of authentic maturation, contributing further complexity to the flavour.
Made entirely on the farm using milk from their own herd and matured with patience and care, Montgomery’s Cheddar represents the pinnacle of traditional British cheesemaking.
Cut to order at The Norfolk Deli, every piece is prepared fresh to ensure optimal flavour and condition.
Perfect Pairings
• Apple chutney or traditional pickle
• Crusty sourdough or oatcakes
• Traditional farmhouse cider
• Full-bodied red wines
Ideal Uses
• A centrepiece for serious cheeseboards
• Perfect for ploughman’s lunches
• Excellent grated into savoury dishes
• Enjoyed simply to appreciate its full character
Why We Stock It
Montgomery’s Cheddar is one of the last true traditional Somerset Cheddars, made entirely on the farm using milk from their own herd and matured using historic methods. Its depth, complexity, and authenticity make it one of the finest Cheddars in the world.
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