About Ilchester
Ilchester is a renowned British speciality cheese brand based in Somerset, the heart of English cheesemaking country. Founded in 1962, the company has become synonymous with flavoured British cheeses, most famously Applewood smoked cheddar and Mexicana spiced cheese. Applewood is Ilchester's flagship cheese - a creamy cheddar with distinctive smoke flavour and a paprika-dusted rind that gives it an appealing amber colour. The smoky taste comes from natural smoke flavouring rather than actual smoking, allowing for consistent flavour in every slice. Applewood has become a cheeseboard staple and is perfect for sandwiches, burgers, and anywhere smoked cheese adds depth. Mexicana delivers fiery flavour with jalapeño peppers, bell peppers, and spices blended into cheddar cheese. It's become popular for Mexican-inspired dishes, nachos, and adding heat to everyday cooking. The balance of creamy cheese with genuine chilli kick has made it a customer favourite. Beyond these stars, Ilchester produces cheese selection boxes perfect for entertaining. The Variety Mini Cheese Selection and Family Favourites boxes offer assortments of flavoured cheeses, ideal for cheeseboards, picnics, and gifting. These include various speciality cheeses from the Ilchester range in convenient portion sizes. The brand also offers convenient formats like sliced cheese and cheese bites (snack-sized portions), making Applewood and other speciality cheeses accessible for lunchboxes and quick meals. Now part of the Saputo dairy group, Ilchester maintains its Somerset heritage while enjoying wider distribution. Available at UK supermarkets including Ocado, Ilchester brings accessible speciality cheese to everyday shopping.





