Rich Nottinghamshire Stilton. A beautifully illustrated pot. Something rather special for the festive table.
Some gifts need very little wrapping to feel thoughtful. A jar of Stilton is one of them: a small indulgence for a cheese lover, a welcome contribution to Christmas lunch, or something to bring out when the plates have been cleared and the conversation is still flowing.
At Olives&Oils, our Fine Cheese Company Potted Stilton brings together traditional cheesemaking and a pot worth keeping. Here is why we love it, and how we would serve it.
Proper Stilton, beautifully presented
Made in Nottinghamshire, this Stilton is produced by gently hand-ladling the curds, a practice with roots in the 18th century. The result is rich and creamy, with a deep, complex flavour that rewards taking your time.
The cheese has plenty of character, but the presentation is part of the pleasure too. Illustrator John Broadley created the country scene on the pot, inspired by traditional blue-and-white china. It is a lovely little centrepiece for a cheeseboard, without needing any extra fuss.
How to serve your Stilton jar
Keep the accompaniments simple and let the cheese lead. We would put the pot on a board with crisp crackers or oatcakes, slices of ripe pear and a handful of walnuts. A little fig relish or chutney adds sweetness alongside the savoury depth of the blue cheese.
For an easy after-dinner spread, choose two or three accompaniments rather than crowding the board. The contrast between creamy cheese, crisp biscuit and fresh fruit is more than enough.
What to drink with Stilton
Port is a classic choice, especially at Christmas: its sweetness makes a lovely contrast to the cheese's savoury character. A dessert wine is another option if you prefer something different.
For an alcohol-free pairing, try a sparkling apple juice. Serve in small glasses and make a proper occasion of it.
A thoughtful gift for a cheese lover
A Stilton jar works beautifully as a host gift or as the starting point for a small food hamper. Pair it with crackers and a favourite chutney, and you have a present that feels considered rather than complicated.
It is just as appealing for your own festive table. Set the pot out with a few well-chosen accompaniments and invite everyone to help themselves.
A pot to enjoy long after Christmas
Once the cheese has been enjoyed and the pot washed, the blue-and-white illustration deserves another outing. Use it to hold teaspoons, keep a few small kitchen essentials together, or simply leave it on display.
That is the charm of a Stilton jar: the pleasure begins with the cheese, but does not have to end with the last bite.
Bring a little tradition to the table
Whether you are planning your Christmas cheeseboard or choosing a gift for someone who loves good food, start with a beautifully presented pot of Stilton.
Discover The Fine Cheese Company Potted Stilton at Olives&Oils
Made with milk and animal rennet. Follow the product label for storage instructions and use-by information.