How Did Stinking Bishop Cheese Become an International Sensation?

Once upon a time in the rolling hills of Gloucestershire, England, a unique cheese with a robust personality was born. This cheese, known today as Stinking Bishop, is renowned not only for its potent aroma but also for its rich history and the delightful tale of how it captured the world's imagination.

The story of Stinking Bishop begins with Charles Martell, a farmer and cheesemaker, who revived a long-forgotten recipe in the early 1970s. Martell was passionate about preserving the cheese-making traditions of his region. He was determined to bring back one of the most distinctive cheeses ever made in Britain. Inspired by ancient local recipes, he got to work and after much experimentation, the Stinking Bishop was brought back to life.

This cheese, named after the Stinking Bishop pear, used in the process—itself named after a notorious 19th-century farmer called Frederick Bishop—boasts an unforgettable aroma. While some might initially find the smell overpowering, true cheese lovers soon discover that its flavor is a testament to traditional British craftsmanship.

Stinking Bishop's journey to international stardom took an unexpected turn in 2005. The cheese made a memorable appearance in the beloved animated film, 'Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit.' In a humorous scene, Wallace, the cheese-loving inventor, uses Stinking Bishop to revive the unconscious Gromit. This comedic moment resonated with audiences and led to an unexpected surge in global demand for the cheese.

Riding on this wave of popularity, Stinking Bishop found its way to cheese shops around the world and onto the plates of connoisseurs who appreciated its bold, creamy texture and unique flavor profile. Today, it stands as a proud symbol of British cheese-making tradition.

Through dedication and a stroke of cinematic luck, Stinking Bishop has become more than just an odd-smelling cheese—it's a beloved fixture in the world of artisanal cheeses, cherished by those who understand and appreciate its distinct character.

So next time you encounter this pungent cheese, remember its journey from the quiet pastures of Gloucestershire to international fame, and savor a piece of history along with its extraordinary taste.