Cheese and fish from Mull, with love

BRING out the cheeseboard! We all like to indulge in our favourite cheeses at Christmas and one at the top of the list has to be Isle of Mull Traditional Farmhouse Cheese – the last remaining traditional farmhouse cheese from the Hebridean Islands.

The popular brand comes from the only dairy farm on Mull and, like its sister cheeses, is made with unpasteurised milk from its own herd of cows fed on grass and whisky grains from Tobermory Distillery. Known for its robust flavour, this artisan cheese has been made by the Reade family for nearly 25 years and is a real crowd-pleaser.

The Scottish Farmer:

A brilliant wee festive gift idea comes in the small but perfectly formed Isle of Mull Flavells. Waxed, they transport well and come in Isle of Mull Traditional Farmhouse Cheddar and one that incorporates the local distiller’s Ledaig whisky.

Today, the business is run by the second generation – brothers Brendan and Garth. Read more about the family and the history of the business and order at www.sgriobruadh.co.uk – look out for Christmas offers!

Meanwhile, Sally Swinbanks, of The Tobermory Fish Company reckons that no Christmas table is complete without her family firm’s tantalising array of smoked products, including salmon, scallops, haddock, mussels and its flagship Tobermory Smoked Trout.

Using a mixture of salt, herbs and spices, the cold smoked products are renowned for their delicate flavour while hot smoked products boast a subtle flavour and flaky texture.

The business was founded in Tobermory by Sally’s grandparents, Hugh and Marjorie Goldie, in 1971. Today, the existing business and smokehouse are located at Baliscate, just above Tobermory Bay, which boasts one of the most attractive and distinctive harbours on Scotland’s West Coast.

Check out the firm’s website where you can order products including festive gift boxes and gift vouchers – go to www.tobermoryfish.co.uk