Red Fox Red Leicester (Lidl Deluxe)
There has been much talk on the site recently about the battle between Cheddar and Red Leicester. I have long advocated that there is plenty of room in the cheeseboard of the world for both (although I confess I am a great consumer of Cheddar as its often more prominent on shelves and deli counters alike). It is with that in mind that I would like to bring to the table what I have long thought to be nearing the top of the Red Leicester tree.
Red Fox is variably described as an aged Red Leicester or Red Leicester-like. It is a hard and crumbly British cheese with a rich red-orange colour and a alluring odour – a feast both for the eyes and nose. This particular offering is from the strong Lidl Deluxe range which produces probably my favourite vintage Cheddar. This Red Fox has a strength rating of 6 and claims to be sweet and nutty. Initial tasting reveals a strong flavour which exhibits both of these claim. There is an appealing crumbly texture with the tell-tale crystallisation of a well matured cheese. The flavour moves through a taste spectrum and lasts a good length of time.
The cheese, like many stronger offerings, works well in almost any situation. It is a treat in a sandwich, melted on toast or just as a quick snack from the fridge. The value is excellent at 90p per 100g. I can find little to say against it. OK – the Vintage Cheddar from the same range is superb and costs less but really I am splitting hairs. The real question is: does is oust it’s rival Cheddar from my weekly shop? The real answer is: why not just have both? I think I will.
RATING – 9.0
MY RECOMMENDATION – A good all-rounder cheese. Why not grate it alongside a strong cheddar to zest up your pasta or an omelette? Failing that, just open the fridge and cut a chunk!
Consummate copious consumer of cheese. Lover of a good strong cheddar!
It’s being wolfed down. Moreish. Nutty as red Leicester but as rabid as any matured cheddar. Best of both worlds.
Still excellent