WHAT IS SHROPSHIRE BLUE?
This pasteurized cow’s milk blue cheese is semi-soft. Created several decades ago, it is often described as a Stilton with annatto or carotene coloring. Also, it uses the same blue mold as Roquefort cheese. Like it’s albino sister cheese, Shropshire is a sharp, tangy cheese. The addition of annatto supposedly results in a slightly creamier blue cheese. Personally I think this was just a clever way for someone to market a non-P.D.O. Stilton without getting in trouble, but who knows.
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WHERE IS SHROPSHIRE BLUE MADE?
Leicestershire, home to such famous foods as Red Leicester, Stilton and pork pie. This region is located in the heart of the English Midlands. Furthermore in the not yet food department, this area is also famous for its sheep. So if you’re passing through, stop by the famous fish and chips shop Pukka Pies for one of their steak and kidney pies!
WHAT IS THE WREKIN’ AND WHY DO PEOPLE KEEP GOING AROUND IT?
“Going aroundt the wrekin” is a popular Midlands phrase. It means to take long time to get to a particular place. The Wrekin (pronounced REE-KIN) itself is the name of a famous hill in east Shropshire. The hill in turn is named after a famous giant who wanted to flood the town of Shrewsbury. In a generally flat country, this is a great place to get a view of the surrounding countryside.
WHAT CAN I PAIR WITH SHROPSHIRE BLUE?
Most ale, porter or stout beers will pair well. Regarding wines, look to Rieslings or sweet Port or Sauterne wines. For English cheese flights, try a Red Leicester and a Cornish Yarg for fun. For a more international tour, stay away from other blue cheeses. Look more towards something with some age like a nice Manchego or a Comte along with a good slice of Grana Padano.