Cheese lovers across Perth and Kinross can rejoice! Strathearn Cheese, a beloved local brand, has been rescued by a talented young chef, ensuring the continuation of its award-winning products. After the previous owner, Pierre Leger, announced his departure late last year, the future of the Comrie-based company remained uncertain. However, Ben Hodgson, a 25-year-old former chef at Gleneagles Hotel, has stepped up to take over the business.
The community’s overwhelming support for the brand has been a driving force behind Hodgson’s decision. He expressed surprise and gratitude at the outpouring of concern and encouragement from local residents since news of the takeover broke. This local connection resonates deeply within the Perth and Kinross community, where supporting local businesses is a point of pride. Back to Basics, with a Focus on Local Flavors
Hodgson, who worked at Gleneagles for over three years, joined Strathearn Cheese in March 2024. He will be working alongside experienced cheesemaker Kirsty McCabe. Initially, the duo will concentrate on producing Strathearn’s flagship product, the award-winning Wee Comrie. The first new batch of this popular cheese is expected to be ready next Tuesday, with further production already underway. This dedication to quality and local favorites will undoubtedly appeal to the discerning palates of Perthshire residents.
The company, located at the historic Cultybraggan camp, had previously outgrown its premises, leading to Leger’s decision to sell. Unable to secure a larger space in the area, Leger hoped that a smaller-scale operation could continue at the site. This makes Hodgson’s takeover a perfect solution, allowing production to continue within the heart of the community. Moreover, the pair will focus on building up the business back up to the heights they were at.
While production was briefly halted, several loyal stockists, including Hansen’s Kitchen, Comrie Croft, and the Crieff Food Company, have maintained their commitment to Strathearn Cheese. As the business ramps up production under Hodgson’s leadership, many more local businesses and the farmers markets are expected to join their ranks. This collaborative spirit, typical of Perth and Kinross, underscores the importance of local producers and suppliers to the area’s economy. A Rich History of Cheesemaking in Perthshire
Strathearn Cheese first began operations at Cultybraggan in 2016, introducing their signature cheese, The Strathearn. Over the years, the company’s offerings expanded to include The Lady Mary, The Braggan, various flavored butters, and of course, the beloved Wee Comrie. Before the transition, Wee Comrie alone saw a monthly production of around 1,500 units, a testament to its popularity. Hodgson and McCabe plan to expand their product line eventually, potentially even venturing into new cheese varieties inspired by local ingredients and traditions. This would further cement Strathearn Cheese’s place in Perthshire’s culinary landscape.
The revival of Strathearn Cheese is a welcome development for the region. It’s a story of local passion, resilience, and a commitment to preserving quality food traditions. As residents of Perth and Kinross eagerly await the return of their favorite cheeses, they can also look forward to a bright future for this local gem, now in the capable hands of a dedicated young entrepreneur.
Perhaps in the future, Hodgson might even consider collaborating with other local producers, like the renowned Perthshire honey makers, to create unique cheese pairings and promote the region’s diverse culinary scene. The possibilities are endless, and the future looks promising for Strathearn Cheese and the Perth and Kinross community it serves.
The community’s overwhelming support for the brand has been a driving force behind Hodgson’s decision. He expressed surprise and gratitude at the outpouring of concern and encouragement from local residents since news of the takeover broke. This local connection resonates deeply within the Perth and Kinross community, where supporting local businesses is a point of pride. Back to Basics, with a Focus on Local Flavors
Hodgson, who worked at Gleneagles for over three years, joined Strathearn Cheese in March 2024. He will be working alongside experienced cheesemaker Kirsty McCabe. Initially, the duo will concentrate on producing Strathearn’s flagship product, the award-winning Wee Comrie. The first new batch of this popular cheese is expected to be ready next Tuesday, with further production already underway. This dedication to quality and local favorites will undoubtedly appeal to the discerning palates of Perthshire residents.
The company, located at the historic Cultybraggan camp, had previously outgrown its premises, leading to Leger’s decision to sell. Unable to secure a larger space in the area, Leger hoped that a smaller-scale operation could continue at the site. This makes Hodgson’s takeover a perfect solution, allowing production to continue within the heart of the community. Moreover, the pair will focus on building up the business back up to the heights they were at.
While production was briefly halted, several loyal stockists, including Hansen’s Kitchen, Comrie Croft, and the Crieff Food Company, have maintained their commitment to Strathearn Cheese. As the business ramps up production under Hodgson’s leadership, many more local businesses and the farmers markets are expected to join their ranks. This collaborative spirit, typical of Perth and Kinross, underscores the importance of local producers and suppliers to the area’s economy. A Rich History of Cheesemaking in Perthshire
Strathearn Cheese first began operations at Cultybraggan in 2016, introducing their signature cheese, The Strathearn. Over the years, the company’s offerings expanded to include The Lady Mary, The Braggan, various flavored butters, and of course, the beloved Wee Comrie. Before the transition, Wee Comrie alone saw a monthly production of around 1,500 units, a testament to its popularity. Hodgson and McCabe plan to expand their product line eventually, potentially even venturing into new cheese varieties inspired by local ingredients and traditions. This would further cement Strathearn Cheese’s place in Perthshire’s culinary landscape.
The revival of Strathearn Cheese is a welcome development for the region. It’s a story of local passion, resilience, and a commitment to preserving quality food traditions. As residents of Perth and Kinross eagerly await the return of their favorite cheeses, they can also look forward to a bright future for this local gem, now in the capable hands of a dedicated young entrepreneur.
Perhaps in the future, Hodgson might even consider collaborating with other local producers, like the renowned Perthshire honey makers, to create unique cheese pairings and promote the region’s diverse culinary scene. The possibilities are endless, and the future looks promising for Strathearn Cheese and the Perth and Kinross community it serves.