Fen Farm Dairy, located in Bungay, has received the prestigious title of the best British cheese brand for the 2022/23 season in the Fine Food Digest awards. The cheesemakers behind the raw
milk, brie-style cheese, Baron Bigod, expressed their delight at winning the award and surpassing competitors such as Colston Bassett Stilton, Westcombe Cheddar, Snowdonia Black Bomber, and Cornish Yarg, as voted for by delis, farm shops, and food halls.
The Crickmore family, who make Baron Bigod using milk from their Montbeliarde herd, which grazes on the rich pastures of north Suffolk/south Norfolk in the warmer months, have earned the title of the best British cheese brand for their bloomy-rinded cheese with a supple center that slightly oozes as it matures. The cheese has been described as having earthy, truffly, umami mushroom flavors, making it stand out from the competition.
Baron Bigod is widely available across the region in independent food stores and farm shops, as well as online from Fen Farm Dairy's website. Customers can also purchase it directly from the farm's 24-hour vending machines in Bungay, along with raw milk, mascarpone, butter, skyr, coffee, hot chocolate, and local goodies, including bread and cakes.
Jonny Crickmore, who leads the cheesemaking team, expressed his surprise and excitement about receiving the award. He said, "Ten years ago, we had an idea to use the milk from our own herd of cows to make a bit of cheese to sell in our little honesty shop at the farm gate. Today, we've been voted the best cheese brand in the UK. It's a really amazing feeling. We are so proud of our whole team. Every person here at the farm has played a part in this journey."
Fen Farm Dairy's achievement is a testament to the quality of artisanal products that can be produced through a passion for traditional cheesemaking techniques and high-quality ingredients. The award not only recognizes the Crickmore family's hard work but also promotes the growth of the local food industry, showcasing the diverse and unique flavors that the UK has to offer. Photo by Iain McDonald, Wikimedia commons.