Mary Holbrook

Mary Holbrook was a renowned British cheesemaker known for her contributions to the artisanal cheese industry. She operated Sleight Farm in Timsbury, Somerset, where she produced a variety of goat cheeses that gained national and international acclaim.

Early Life

Mary Holbrook was born in England. She initially pursued a career in archaeology before transitioning to cheesemaking. Her background in archaeology influenced her meticulous approach to cheese production.

Cheesemaking Career

Holbrook began her cheesemaking journey in the 1970s. She was largely self-taught, drawing inspiration from traditional European methods. Her farm, Sleight Farm, became a hub for artisanal cheese production, focusing on goat's milk cheeses.

Notable Cheeses

Some of Mary Holbrook's most famous cheeses include:

• Tymsboro - A pyramid-shaped goat cheese with a distinctive flavor.
• Cardo - A semi-hard cheese made using vegetarian rennet.
• Sleightlett - A soft, creamy cheese with a delicate rind.

Legacy

Mary Holbrook's cheeses were celebrated for their quality and unique flavors. She was a pioneer in the British artisanal cheese movement, influencing many contemporary cheesemakers. Her work has been featured in various food publications and she received numerous awards throughout her career.

Death

Mary Holbrook passed away in 2019, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and excellence in cheesemaking.

See Also

• Cheesemaking
• Artisanal cheese
• Goat cheese
• Vegetarian rennet