July Cheese of the Month: Katy’s White Lavender
Clean and fresh with deliciously subtle floral notes, Katy's White Lavender was launched in 2003 and has been converting many a lavender naysayer (and many a cheese competition judge) into fans ever since!
A tribute to traditional cheesemaking, Katy’s White Lavender is handcrafted using fresh, local ewe's milk and carefully matured for a minimum of 2 weeks before our team of master cheesemakers hand roll it in dried lavender flowers to allow the delicate floral notes to infuse the creamy, crumbly cheese to stunning effect.
Clean and fresh with deliciously subtle floral notes
The lavender balances the meadowy sweetness of ewes’ milk to perfection, creating a delicately fragrant cheese that is a genuine taste sensation. If you want to spark a conversation over dinner, pick this!
With its unique character, Katy’s White Lavender makes a fantastic addition to any cheese board but is also wonderful for salads too. Recently here in the Shepherds Purse office, we’ve been pairing it with a square of good quality milk chocolate, and let us tell you, it’s sensational!
Perfect paired it with...
- Slices of fresh pears or apple: The crisp, sweet fruit contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese.
- Light white wines: Sauvignon Blanc or crisp Chardonnay to complement the floral notes.
- Honey & sweet jams: A drizzle of honey or a sweet fig jam elevates its mild sweetness.
- Herbed crackers or fresh bread: A perfect way to enjoy it on your cheeseboard.
- A square of good quality milk chocolate: The creaminess in the cheese pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the chocolate, whilst the lavender compliments the sweetness beautifully.
Some of Katy’s White Lavender’s top awards:
2005: World Cheese Awards - Bronze
2014: Great Yorkshire Show – Gold
2014: Great Taste Awards – 1 Star
2016: Great Taste Awards – 1 Star
2016: International Cheese Awards – Gold
2019: Great Yorkshire Show – Gold
2022: Great Taste Awards – 1 Star
2022: International Cheese Awards – Gold
2024: Great Yorkshire Show – Gold
Try if for yourself! Katy's White Lavender is available in specialist cheese shops, farm shops and delis throughout the UK, as well as online here.