Description

Indulge in a truly singular artisan creation: our Negroni Stilton combines the bold sophistication of barrel-aged Negroni with the rich, creamy depth of Cropwell Bishop Stilton. Aged for one month with a bottle of oak-barrel-matured Negroni inverted into its heart, this cheese is a harmonious dance between spirit and dairy, delivering a tasting experience that evolves with every nibble.

How it’s Made

We craft our Negroni Stilton through a patient, month-long infusion process: first, we age a classic Negroni in a small oak barrel to deepen its herbal, citrus, and oak notes. Once the cocktail reaches perfect maturity, we invert a full bottle into the core of a wheel of Cropwell Bishop Stilton, sealing it to allow the spirit to permeate the cheese’s creamy veins. Over four weeks, the blue mold mingles with the gin’s juniper, Campari’s bitter orange, and vermouth’s botanicals, transforming the Stilton into a singular fusion of fruit-bright, boozy warmth and peppery finish.

Tasting Notes

Appearance

• Rind & Paste: Pale ivory paste streaked with glistening blue veins; the rind carries faint amber blushes from the Negroni infusion.

• Texture: Dense yet supple, with a smooth, melting creaminess that yields gently under the tongue.

Aroma

• Top Notes: Bright citrus and blood-orange zest from the Aperol and Campari in the Negroni.

• Heart Notes: Herbal whispers of rosemary, mint, and juniper from the gin.

• Base Notes: Rich, malty oak and warm sweetness of aged vermouth.

Flavor Profile

1. Fruity Opening

   • Juicy orange peel and red-berry undertones from the Campari and sweet vermouth burst forth immediately, lifting the palate with fresh vibrancy.

2. Boozy Mid-Palate

   • A warming wave of botanical gin and vermouth spirits floods the senses, marrying seamlessly with the Stilton’s tangy cream.

3. Peppery Finish

   • A crisp, peppery kick emerges, anchored by savory, saline mineral notes typical of Cropwell Bishop Stilton, leaving a lingering warmth that invites another bite.

Pairing Suggestions

• Aperitif: Serve with a chilled, classic Negroni to echo and amplify the spirit infusion.

• Wine: A late-harvest Riesling or a vintage Port balances the peppery finish with ripe sweetness.

• Accompaniments: Drizzle of honey, quince paste, or crisp fig crackers for contrast.

Serving & Storage

• Serving Temperature: Best enjoyed at room temperature (18–20 °C) to allow all the layered aromas and flavors to fully express.

• Shelf Life: Once opened, wrap in wax paper and refrigerate; consume within two weeks for optimal freshness.

Experience the union of Italy’s iconic cocktail and England’s most celebrated blue cheese in every decadent slice of Negroni Stilton. Elevate your next tasting board or gift this luxurious collaboration to the true connoisseur.