Cloonbook vs Soft Sheeps Cheese: Which Irish Farmhouse Favorite Is Right for You?

Irish farmhouse cheesemaking has a rich heritage, and two standout sheep milk cheeses have captured the hearts of food lovers everywhere: Cloonbook Irish Farmhouse Cheese 130g and Soft Sheeps Cheese 130g. While both are made from the same creamy sheep's milk, each offers a completely different tasting experience. Whether you are building a cheese board, cooking, or simply snacking, knowing the differences can help you choose the perfect cheese for your occasion.

In this comparison, we will explore the unique characteristics of each cheese — from their aging process and texture to flavor notes and ideal pairings. By the end, you will have a clear picture of which farmhouse favorite best suits your palate and your next culinary creation.

The Cheeses at a Glance

Cloonbook Irish Farmhouse Cheese 130g is a semi-soft, washed-rind cheese with a distinctive orange-hued rind and a supple, creamy interior. It is aged for a few weeks, developing a savory, slightly pungent aroma with earthy and buttery notes. The texture is luxurious — smooth and spreadable at room temperature, yet firm enough to slice cleanly.

Soft Sheeps Cheese 130g, in contrast, is a fresh, unaged cheese with a bright white, chalky appearance. Its texture is delicate and crumbly, similar to a young feta but milder and creamier. The flavor is clean, milky, and subtly tangy, with no sharpness. This cheese is often enjoyed within days of production, making it a true taste of fresh sheep's milk.

• A Cloonbook wheel wrapped in a damp cloth will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 2 weeks after opening.
• Soft Sheeps Cheese should be consumed within a week of opening for the best texture and flavor.

Flavor and Texture Comparison

The flavor profiles of these two cheeses diverge sharply. Cloonbook develops a complex umami character reminiscent of washed-rind classics like Taleggio or Époisses, with a lingering, savory finish. Its paste is soft and oozy when warm, making it ideal for melting over potatoes or grilled bread.

Soft Sheeps Cheese, on the other hand, offers a gentle lactic sweetness with a hint of lemon. Its crumbly texture makes it perfect for crumbling over salads, roasted vegetables, or mixed into pasta. Unlike Cloonbook, it does not overpower other ingredients — instead, it adds a subtle richness.

For those who enjoy bold, funky cheeses, Cloonbook will be your go-to. If you prefer a mild, versatile fresh cheese, Soft Sheeps Cheese is the clear winner.

Best Uses and Pairings

Cloonbook Irish Farmhouse Cheese 130g shines on a cheese board alongside cured meats, crusty bread, and dried figs. Its robust flavor pairs beautifully with full-bodied red wines like Pinot Noir or a stout beer. It also melts beautifully into sauces, gratins, or a simple grilled cheese sandwich.

Soft Sheeps Cheese 130g is a star in Mediterranean-style dishes. Crumble it over a Greek salad with olives and tomatoes, stir into an omelet, or spread onto crackers with a drizzle of honey. It pairs wonderfully with crisp white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé.

For an unforgettable breakfast, try Soft Sheeps Cheese with fresh berries and a dollop of sheep's milk yogurt. Both cheeses can be enjoyed with the Irish Handcrafted Wooden Cheese Board, which provides the perfect rustic serving surface.

Nutrition and Dietary Considerations

Both cheeses are made from pure sheep's milk, which is naturally higher in protein, calcium, and healthy fats than cow's milk. They are also easier to digest for many people who are lactose intolerant, as sheep's milk contains less lactose than cow's milk.

Cloonbook, being aged, has even lower lactose content and may be better tolerated by sensitive individuals. Soft Sheeps Cheese, being fresh, retains slightly more lactose but still remains a gentle option. Both cheeses are gluten-free and suitable for a vegetarian diet, though always check labels for rennet information.

Nutritionally, a 30g serving of either cheese provides about 7-9g of protein and 100-120 calories, making it a satisfying, nutrient-dense snack.

• Sheep milk cheeses are rich in conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which may support immune health.

Whether you crave the deep, savory complexity of Cloonbook Irish Farmhouse Cheese 130g or the fresh, milky simplicity of Soft Sheeps Cheese 130g, Velvet Cloud has both ready to ship. Try them side by side with the Variety Pack - Try a bit of everything to explore even more Irish farmhouse treasures. Your next cheese discovery is just a click away.