Colston Bassett Stilton

Origin: Nottinghamshire, England
Milk Type: Pasteurized cow’s milk
Style: Blue-veined, semi-soft to crumbly
Aging: Minimum 8 weeks, often up to 12 weeks
Protected Designation: PDO (Protected Designation of Origin)

Tasting Notes

Colston Bassett Stilton is considered the gold standard of English blue cheese, made by a small, traditional dairy in the Vale of Belvoir since 1913. It’s the only Stilton producer that still uses hand-ladled curds — a gentle, old-fashioned method that results in a creamier, more luscious texture than industrial versions.

Aromatics & Appearance

• Aromatics: Rich, earthy, and slightly fruity. There’s a blue-mold tang, but it’s balanced by buttery, almost floral dairy notes.

• Appearance: Ivory-to-golden paste, marbled with fine blue-green veins. The rind is natural, dry, and rustic.

Texture

• Creamy yet Crumbly: The texture strikes a rare balance — it’s silky and spreadable at room temperature, yet holds its shape when cut.

• Mouthfeel: Rich and velvety on the palate, with an occasional mineral crunch from the blue veining.

Flavour Evolution

• First Taste: Mild and milky up front — sweet cream, butter, and a touch of toasted brioche.

• Mid-Palate: As it opens, the veins bring in complex savoury notes — mushroomy earthiness, mild tang, and a subtle spicy sharpness that never overpowers.

• Finish: Long and satisfying. A clean, mineral edge lingers, balanced by a mellow, caramel-like sweetness. The salt level is restrained compared to many blues.

Pairing Suggestions

WINE

• Port: A classic pairing — the rich fruit of a vintage or tawny port beautifully balances the cheese’s savory depth

• Sauternes or Tokaji: For a sweeter contrast

• Dry reds: A mature Bordeaux or Nebbiolo for a savory, grounding match

• White: Off-dry Riesling or Gewürztraminer enhances its creamy sweetness

FOOD

• Condiments: Pear compote, fig jam, or a drizzle of chestnut honey

• Bread/Crackers: Walnut bread, oat biscuits, or rye crisps

• Salads: Crumbled into a chicory, pear, and walnut salad

• Meats: Melt over a grilled steak or serve alongside prosciutto or cured duck breast

Why It Stands Out

Colston Bassett is universally revered by cheesemongers for its balance, depth, and elegance. Whether for a holiday cheese board or a quiet moment with a glass of port, this Stilton delivers power without aggression, and luxury without fuss.

Our cheese mongers hand cut every cheese to order. We will always try to cut the exact weight ordered, however your piece might be slightly over or under the amount listed. But please know that we cut it freshly and specifically for you.

If you order several cheeses, we will usually make up for shortcomings on weight, if any, on the other cheeses ordered.

All cheeses are wrapped in special cheese paper and sealed to preserve freshness during transit.

Every order includes all the necessary thermal packaging and ice packs required for current weather conditions. Our main focus is getting the freshest product delivered to your door.