5 cheese pairing ideas with Toby Edwards, Friday Street Farm Shop

What’s on your dream cheeseboard?
If you had asked me these 18 months ago, I wouldn’t have had a clue, my answer may have been a well-known cheese brand. However, after learning a tonne of information and trying a ridiculous amount of cheese since then, my answer now is different.

Hands down I would always choose Baron Bigod first or the truffle Baron Bigod when the other half isn’t looking. Not because I am a Suffolk boy through and through, but nothing in the brie section compares to its flavour.

My second and third choices would have to go to another couple of local cheeses, Suffolk Blue and Suffolk Gold. Yet again, I promise its not just because they are from Suffolk. Suffolk Blue is a lovely and creamy that still has that strength you look for in a blue, while Suffolk Gold creaminess is simply second to none.

Red Wine Farmer is my fourth choice, it’s been my favourite from day one starting our cheese room. I feel in love with its layers of flavours. My last choice must go to, Norfolk Smoked Dapple. Being an old fan of a popular smoked cheese from supermarkets. However, since trying this natural smoked cheese I haven’t looked back.

What’s your all-time favourite cheese pairing?
Well only being in the Cheese world for 18 months I have discovered quite a few very good parings. However, since joining up with our local business Adnams to do cheese and wine tasting events on Saturdays, we are slowly building a catalogue of great pairings to recommended to customers.

Our best one pairings so far is Suffolk Blue with Adnams Pacherenc du Vic-Bilh (Dessert Wine), the flavours of the cheese fit perfectly with the fruity aromas and the sweet honey flavour of the wine.

Any unusual pairings you’d recommend?
I am not sure if this would be unusual pairing else where in the country but I still get funny looks at work when I make this pairing. My unusual pairing and a lunchtime favourite of mine is a slice of Montagnolo with another other slice of Oglsheild or Black bomber (depending what I fancy) on top of a sourdough baguette split in half then toasted. A pairing made in heaven. Well, in my eyes, maybe not my work colleagues!

What do you love to drink with cheese?
At the moment it’s the Adnams Pacherenc du Vic-Bilh (Dessert Wine), not just a great pairing with the Suffolk Blue but a fantastic one to have alongside any cheese board.

What must-have cheese kit would you recommend?
I would recommend a bespoke made wooden cheese board. I had someone local make one for us and it makes the cheese stand out more when you’re presenting to family or guests.