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While Scotland may not have the culinary reputation of some of the other countries you might choose for a barging holiday, if you dig deep, you’ll discover that this destination has many gastronomic secrets that are just waiting to be uncovered. One of these has got to be the huge array of incredible cheeses that are made in Scotland, many of which certainly rival those of France, Holland and Italy. So, when you’re on your luxury Scottish cruise and wondering what you’re going to be able to enjoy as an after dinner treat, don’t worry, the cheese board will be full - it’s guaranteed! Fabulous Cheese to Look Out For Criffel This is a beautifully semi-soft cow’s milk variety made from organic milk by the inspirational Loch Arthur Creamery. The initial taste is sweet and creamy and yet the background flavour carries strong, pungent notes that give it a distinctive edge; it’s wonderful on a traditional oatcake. Ailsa Craig A bright and fresh goat’s cheese, these individual crottins are light and soft with an almost fluffy texture. Only made in small quantities, you might have to make a point to look out for this one. Request it on your Scottish cruise, however, and the crew will do their best to get it for you. Red Anster A beautiful farmhouse option, the orange colour of this delectable cheese comes from annatto, which is a natural plant extract. Enhanced with garlic and chives, the Anster is the only naturally flavoured artisan cheese made in Scotland. You can get a plain version too, which has a distinct citrus tang and a fresh finish. Dunsyre Blue Unpasteurised and made from the milk from Ayrshire cows in Lanarkshire, this smooth variety is aged to give it the chance to develop its classic blue-green mould stripes. The taste is spicy but rounded and creamier than the other famous Scottish blue, Lanark Blue. Morangie Brie Creamy and very brie-like in nature, the Morangie Brie can be eaten after only six weeks of being made. This one is pasturised, which means the flavour is less tangy, but larger rounds tend to develop a good strength when it comes to taste. Indulging in a cheese board is the perfect way to round off a meal, and when we think of travelling to the continent we often think of eating our way through the famous offerings that complement the wonderful wines. While Scotland doesn’t immediately have that renown, on a Scottish cruise you’ll be surprised at the number of wonderful cheeses you’ll have the chance to taste. Almost every village and town you stop at will have a new one for you to try. Who’d have thought that we had such culinary prestige right on our doorstep? If you’re inspired to book a Scottish cruise, make sure you go through a specialist tour operator. They are the experts and will make sure you get you the holiday you’re dreaming of. Author Plate Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, the UK's most respected provider of all-inclusive, luxury barge holidays if you’re looking for a relaxing Scottish cruise, or itineraries to a host of other excellent destinations. Part of a team of experienced barging aficionados, Paul is first in line to endorse the perks of a slow-paced barge cruise to anyone looking for a unique holiday experience.
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