Gubbeen Farmhouse Cheese

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Gubbeen Farmhouse Cheese is a type of cheese produced in County Cork, Ireland. It is a semi-soft, washed-rind cheese made from cow's milk. The cheese is known for its distinctive flavor, which is a result of the unique microflora present in the environment of the Gubbeen Farm.

History

Gubbeen Farmhouse Cheese has been produced by the Ferguson family at Gubbeen Farm since the 1970s. The farm is located near Schull, a small town in West Cork. The cheese-making process was initiated by Tom and Giana Ferguson, who sought to diversify their farm's production and create a high-quality, artisanal product.

Production Process

The production of Gubbeen Farmhouse Cheese involves several key steps:

• Milk Collection: The milk used for Gubbeen cheese comes from the farm's own herd of cows. The cows are primarily fed on grass, which contributes to the unique flavor profile of the cheese.
• Curdling: The milk is pasteurized and then curdled using rennet. The curds are cut and stirred to release whey.
• Molding and Pressing: The curds are placed into molds and pressed to remove excess whey.
• Brining: The cheese is soaked in a brine solution to enhance flavor and aid in preservation.
• Aging: The cheese is aged for several weeks in a controlled environment. During this time, the rind is washed regularly to develop the characteristic orange-pink color and complex flavor.

Characteristics

Gubbeen Farmhouse Cheese has a semi-soft texture with a creamy, buttery interior. The rind is washed, which gives it a distinctive appearance and contributes to its flavor. The taste is often described as earthy, nutty, and slightly tangy, with a mild aroma.

Awards and Recognition

Gubbeen Farmhouse Cheese has received numerous awards and accolades over the years. It is highly regarded in the artisanal cheese community and has been recognized for its quality and craftsmanship.

Related Pages

• Cheese
• County Cork
• Artisanal cheese
• Washed-rind cheese
• Cow's milk

See Also

• List of Irish cheeses
• Cheese production
• Dairy farming in Ireland