Carrigaline Farmhouse Cheese facts for kids

Carrigaline Farmhouse Cheese is a delicious semi-soft cheese made from cow's milk. It comes from Carrigaline, a town in County Cork, Ireland. The O'Farrell family has been making this special cheese on their farm since 1988. They use fresh milk from their own Friesian cows. Over the years, their family business has grown. They now make many award-winning artisan cheeses.

What is Carrigaline Farmhouse Cheese?

Carrigaline Farmhouse Cheese is a vegetarian cheese. This means it's made without animal products, except for milk. It uses whole milk and a special ingredient called vegetarian rennet. Rennet helps milk turn into cheese.

Cheese Sizes and Aging

You can find Carrigaline cheese in different sizes. It comes in small round shapes that weigh 150g, 200g, or 400g. You can also find larger cheese wheels that weigh 1 kg (2.2 lb) or 1.8 kg (4.0 lb). The people who make the cheese suggest waiting at least 12 weeks before eating it. This aging process helps the cheese taste its best.

Where is Carrigaline Cheese Sold?

Carrigaline Farmhouse Cheese is popular in many places. About 20% of the cheese is sent to countries in Europe and the United States. You can also buy it in Ireland. It's sold in big supermarkets and smaller, independent shops.

Awards and Recognitions

Carrigaline Farmhouse Cheese has won many awards. These awards show how good the cheese is.

Major Cheese Awards

• British Cheese Awards: The cheese has won bronze, silver, and gold medals here.
• International Cheese Awards: It has received silver medals at this big event.
• World Cheese Awards: Carrigaline won a gold medal in the smoked cheese category.
• Artisan Cheese Awards: It was named the "Best Irish Cheese" at this competition.

These awards highlight the quality and taste of Carrigaline Farmhouse Cheese.