Baron Bigod Brie Pairing – A British Brie with French Elegance
The Rise of a British Classic
When one thinks of Brie, the mind often wanders to the lush pastures of Île-de-France. But nestled in the heart of Suffolk, a British answer to the French classic has emerged—Baron Bigod Brie. Crafted by Jonny Crickmore on Fen Farm using traditional French techniques and raw Montbéliarde cow’s milk, Baron Bigod is Britain’s only raw milk Brie-style cheese. It’s soft, bloomy-rinded, and oozes with the same mushroomy depth and luscious texture that defines the finest Bries in the world.
This cheese has swiftly gained a cult following among sommeliers, chefs, and cheese lovers who crave authenticity with a touch of innovation. With its golden, silky paste and rich, savoury core, Baron Bigod deserves centre stage—not just on the cheeseboard but in the world of fine pairings.
Pairing Suggestions: Wine, Charcuterie, and More
Best Wine for Baron Bigod Brie
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English Sparkling Wine – The crisp acidity of a traditional method sparkling wine (like Nyetimber or Gusbourne) cuts through the cheese’s rich fat, elevating its earthy, mushroomy notes.
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Chenin Blanc – A lightly oaked Chenin from South Africa or the Loire Valley complements Baron Bigod’s creaminess while enhancing its subtle nuttiness.
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Pinot Noir – Preferably from Burgundy or a cooler English region. Its red fruit and low tannins pair beautifully with the soft, buttery texture.
Charcuterie Pairings
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Suffolk Pastrami – Its peppery crust and umami-rich beef echo Baron Bigod’s savoury depth while contrasting its creamy body.
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Air Dried Duck Breast – The luxurious, silky duck echoes the cheese’s texture and adds a slightly sweet-savory complexity.
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Islington Sopressata – A hint of chilli warmth elevates the cheese’s mellow flavour.
Condiments & Accents
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Quince paste or fig chutney – Adds sweetness to contrast the Brie’s savoury profile.
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Toasted hazelnuts – A crunchy counterpoint to the cheese’s silkiness.
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Sourdough crackers or walnut bread – Earthy bases that don’t overpower the cheese.
Craftsmanship & Provenance
Jonny Crickmore’s Fen Farm Dairy is a beacon of British artisan cheesemaking. Using milk from their own Montbéliarde cows, the Crickmores embrace traditional Brie de Meaux techniques—hand-ladling curds, ageing under natural conditions, and never compromising on the raw milk philosophy. This results in a Brie that’s complex, layered, and alive with flavour.
Baron Bigod has even graced the cheese boards of Michelin-starred restaurants and royal events. It’s not just an alternative to French Brie—it’s a rival, proudly British yet internationally respected.
Serving Tips
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Bring to room temperature for at least an hour before serving to allow the paste to soften and flavours to bloom.
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Store wrapped in wax paper, not plastic, to let the cheese breathe.
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Enjoy within 10 days of cutting for peak flavour.
The Final Word
Whether you're curating a festive cheeseboard or indulging in a quiet evening of wine and charcuterie, Baron Bigod Brie offers a uniquely British decadence. Its raw milk richness, artisanal roots, and elegant complexity make it a must-try for those who savour tradition with a touch of the extraordinary.
Pair it thoughtfully, serve it proudly—and let Suffolk's soft-ripened gem steal the spotlight.
