Thank you
As we hurtle towards a new decade, we thought we’d take a moment to reflect on what a momentous year it’s been for the Academy of Cheese and all our alumni.
Our reach and influence is growing ever wider and 2019 saw us spread our cheesy embrace across the globe as eager enthusiasts travelled from far and wide to attend our dedicated training events and masterclasses. It was fantastic to meet fellow cheese lovers from Florida, Canada, Malta, China, Japan, Brazil, Norway, France & Ireland.
Cheese Board Meeting
In the spirit of celebrating the international appeal of cheese, the Guilde Internationale des Fromagers (the International Brotherhood of Cheesemakers) and the Academy of Cheese united to deliver a special one-off event.
Members of both organisations gathered in London to celebrate cheese culture and education. Rolande Barthelemy, President of the Guilde, and three of the Academy’s founding directors; Tracey Colley, Mary Quicke and Ros Windsor, inspired guests with news and stories from their respective organisations.
Culture, Heritage & Gastronomy
A journey around the cheese world was offered by different experts of both organisations.
Gilles Quillot, the French Embassy Chef presented cheese recipes using famous PDO cheese such as the Maroilles with the “Brioche feuilletée au maroilles et escargots” and the “Crumble aux pommes et glace au camembert” with Le Rustique Camembert.
Cheese & Wine Pairing
Hero Hirsh (Paxton and Whitfield) and Noemie Richard (Savencia UK) honoured the two associations with a French wine and British cheese pairing. The Pouilly Fuissé from Bourgogne was presented as the perfect match for Berkswell cheese.
Cheesemaker, Catherine Mead OBE, is a member of both associations and presented her award winning Cornish Kern.
New Trainers
In addition to growing an international army of cheese lovers – all hungry to develop their cheese knowledge and repertoire -the Academy has successfully matured its ranks, as more Training Partners continue to sign up to deliver Level 1 and Level 2 courses. This adds greater geographic breadth to our offering, and for potential delegates struggling to find a local provider, the Academy’s courses and examinations are also available online.
A huge thank you to all involved, particularly those who helped to successfully roll out Level 2. There are plenty of courses scheduled for the start of the New Year so be sure to book your place…
Irish School of Cheese
Avril is the Academy’s first Training Partner in Ireland. Her goal is to deepen people’s understanding and appreciation of the beautiful and fascinating world of cheese, in a fun and enjoyable environment.
Savencia Fromage & Dairy
The course from L’école du fromage by Savencia is designed for professionals. From cheesemongers to chefs and sommeliers, Noemie delivers the training with entertaining and interactive methods.
2019 Highlights
We’re a sociable bunch and love to collaborate! Bringing people with a shared interested together (especially over a glass of wine and an appealing cheeseboard) is one of life’s greatest pleasures. This is why we’ve run a series of dedicated Masterclasses throughout the year.
These one-off events are designed to complement the programme of Level 1 and 2 courses offered by our Training Partners. This year, we have been incredibly fortunate to attract some exceptionally talented individuals who have delivered a variety of Masterclasses that have proved to be a huge hit with curd nerds and industry insiders!
Special thanks to Sue Sturman of Academie Mons, Guild of Fine Food, Camden Grocer, Perry at Cheese+, the WSET team, Rupert at Brindisa, the bard of cheese – Patrick McGuigan and Dhruv Baker from Tempus Foods. Your contributions have been massively appreciated.
Master of Cheese in 2020
The Academy has an important role in uniting the numerous players within the cheese sphere – from the makers and, mongers to the, chefs, distributors and keen consumers. We provide industry recognised accreditation to help raise standards and appreciation throughout the supply chain and beyond.
Our Founding Director, Mary Quicke MBE, is finalising an inspiring Five-Year Strategic Plan for the Academy. In her own inimitable style, Mary’s vision is both ambitious and captivating. Her pioneering insight into how far the sector could develop, when we all work towards a shared set of goals, will be revealed in the New Year ….
WISHING YOU ALL A HAPPY AND HEALTHY CHRISTMAS AND A PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR
