Cornish Yarg (in nettle)

About the Cheese

Cornish Yarg is an elegant artisan cheese with a mellow flavour and striking appearance.

This unique handmade cow’s milk cheese has a semi-firm, slightly crumbly yet bouncy texture and a sweet flavour that makes it a real crowd-pleaser.

Wrapped in nettles for an attractive finish and distinctive taste, Cornish Yarg wheels are matured for 4-8 weeks.

Young cheeses are fresh and lemony, while mature ones develop sweeter, mushroomy, and vegetal notes.

The nettle leaves, applied in concentric circles, attract naturally occurring moulds, imparting a delicate, mushroomy taste and creating a unique bloomy white appearance.

Cheesemaker: Lynher Dairies

Lynher Dairies, owned by Catherine Mead OBE DL, is situated on the outskirts of Ponsanooth in mid Cornwall.

They are the exclusive producers of Cornish Yarg, Wild Garlic Yarg, Cornish Kern, and Stithians. The dairy has been wrapping Cornish Yarg in nettle leaves since the 1980s, following a recipe discovered by Bodmin Moor farmer Alan Gray in his attic. The name “Yarg” is derived from spelling “Gray” backwards.

Lynher Dairies is committed to traditional cheesemaking methods and local sourcing. Their beautiful herd of Ayrshires at Gadles Farm provides rich, creamy milk used to craft their award-winning cheeses.

The dairy’s dedication to quality and innovation has earned them numerous accolades, including the Supreme Champion title at the World Cheese Awards in 2017 for their Cornish Kern.

Lynher Dairies is actively involved in supporting local communities and organizations, reflecting their deep-rooted connection to Cornwall’s heritage and culture.