An Altrincham cheesemaker is celebrating after securing a place in the prestigious ‘World Cheese Book’.
Burt’s Blue, made by Claire Burt of Burt’s Cheese, is recommended in the newly published book by world-renowned cheese expert Juliet Harbutt. It’s the most comprehensive guide available, covering more world cheeses than any other book on the subject.
The accolade comes as Burt’s Cheese was recognised in three categories in the British Cheese Awards this month, winning a Gold for ‘DiVine’, two Silver awards for ‘Burt’s Blue’ and a bronze for ‘The Drunken’.
Founder Claire Burt said: “Being in the World Cheese Book is a huge honour: Juliette is one of the world’s leading authorities on cheese so we were delighted when we got the call from her office giving us the news. To be in the book and celebrate all these awards is fantastic.”
Below: Claire Burt at her dairy in Knutsford
The mum of two started Burt’s Cheese at her kitchen table and formally launched the brand in 2010 while she was on maternity leave with her first child. Originally from Altrincham and now operating out of Knutsford, Claire makes all her cheese with milk from local farms, and counts chefs Tom Kerridge and Simon Rimmer as fans.
Her products are stocked in Harvey Nichols, Booths and Altrincham Market and she has received a number of awards, including Best Producer at the Observer Food Monthly Awards.
She added: “It’s been a crazy year, we are getting busier all the time with listings all over the UK – and to now have global recognition and more awards is amazing. We’ll be celebrating with a small glass of port or Muscat – they go best with the Burt’s Blue – and then it’s straight back to work!”
Below: Claire Burt with some of her acclaimed cheeses
