Caerphilly

Caerphilly is a semi-soft cheese with a close, flaky texture, much like Cheddar, but white in colour. Caerphilly used to be made of partially skimmed milk, but today it is manufactured from full-cream milk. It is produced in Somerset, where it is packed while still warm into small hoops, to give a cheese weighing about 8 pounds. Caerphilly is an unripened cheese, sold in a matter of days after being formed and soaked in brine.

Excellent toasted, Caerphilly cuts well for sandwiches; but it is at its best when eaten with fresh bread and ale. It is a great favourite with children because of its mild flavour, and it is easily digestible.