Long Clawson Dairy has achieved the prestigious title of Supreme Champion for its Blue Stilton at the 2024 International Cheese Awards, underscoring its commitment to quality and tradition in cheese-making.
Long Clawson Dairy’s Blue Stilton Crowned Supreme Champion at ICDA
Long Clawson Dairy, a distinguished dairy producer based in Leicestershire, has achieved a remarkable accolade at this year’s International Cheese Awards (ICDA). The dairy’s signature Blue Stilton has been awarded the prestigious title of Supreme Champion, a recognition that highlights the pinnacle of dairy excellence on a global scale.
The 2024 ICDA Awards, known for celebrating the finest in dairy products internationally, featured an intense competition with over 4,000 entries from around the world. Long Clawson Dairy’s Blue Stilton emerged victorious, a testament to the exceptional quality and craftsmanship behind each wheel of cheese produced at the Leicestershire-based dairy.
Bill Mathieson, Managing Director of Long Clawson Dairy, expressed his pride in this achievement. “This is a monumental achievement for Long Clawson Dairy,” he stated. “Our Blue Stilton is the culmination of over a century of cheese-making tradition and innovation. To have it recognised as the Supreme Champion by such a prestigious body is an honour that validates the dedication and passion of our entire team.”
The award-winning Blue Stilton is crafted using traditional methods and the finest local milk, sourced from 30 farms within a 30-mile radius of the dairy. Known for its rich, creamy texture and distinctive blue veining, the cheese has long been a favourite among connoisseurs and cheese enthusiasts alike. The judges at the ICDA Awards praised the Blue Stilton for its exceptional balance of flavour, aroma, and texture, highlighting its complex yet harmonious profile.
“This award underscores our commitment to quality and our unwavering focus on maintaining the highest standards in cheese production,” Mathieson added. “We’re thrilled that our dedication to excellence has been recognised on such a prominent stage.”
Long Clawson Dairy has held a significant place in the Leicestershire community since its establishment in 1912. The business was originally formed by a cooperative of 12 farmers, with subsequent generations of these families still contributing to the operations today. Currently, 30 local farms supply milk to the dairy, reinforcing its strong ties to the regional agricultural heritage.
Celebrating More Wins
In addition to the Supreme Champion title, Long Clawson Dairy achieved several other accolades at the 2024 ICDA and British Cheese Awards. The recognised awards include:
2024 International Cheese & Dairy Awards:
- Supreme Champion – Blue Stilton
- Gold – Two categories for Blue Stilton
- Silver – Three categories for Blue Stilton
- Bronze – Shropshire Blue and Rutland Red
- Gold – White Stilton
- Gold – Flaming Pepper
- Silver – Cheddar Balsamic Onion
2024 British Cheese Awards:
- Territorial Champion & Gold – Rutland Red
- Gold – Two categories for Shropshire Blue
- Silver – Blue Stilton
These awards build upon a legacy of excellence, with Long Clawson’s Shropshire Blue having previously won the Supreme Champion title at the ICDA in 2022.
A Legacy of Flavour
Long Clawson Dairy’s Stilton embodies a well-balanced cheese with a slightly salty note and a creamy, smooth mouthfeel. Characterised by its soft golden coat and blue veins radiating from the centre, each wheel is a product of meticulous craftsmanship. Since 1912, Long Clawson’s team of Master Cheesemakers have adhered to strict golden rules to ensure that every Stilton delivers exceptional flavour and creaminess.
Long Clawson Dairy’s Supreme Champion title at the ICDA is a reflection of its deep-rooted commitment to quality and the enduring tradition of cheesemaking that has defined its legacy over the past century.