I’m absolutely thrilled to share some exciting news with you: I’ve recently been inducted into the prestigious Guilde Internationale des Fromagers! It’s a tremendous honor to join this community of cheese enthusiasts who celebrate the excellence and diversity of this exceptional product.
I was due to be inducted the day the Queen died, I found out she had passed from the security man at the French Ambassador’s Residence gate. The induction was cancelled in respect. I made my way to Buckingham Palace to join the crowds instead. It was a good day to be in London.
Wednesday 4th September I was inducted with no hiccups (expect my patron (and cheese legend) Mary Quicke lost her notes on the train. She still managed an off the cuff great little speech about me which was good for my self esteem.)
For those who aren’t familiar, the Guilde Internationale des Fromagers is an association that brings together people across the international Cheese world, from producers to affinateurs, cheesemakers, and amateurs. You have to be invited to join, so it’s a little exclusive. There are are around 9,000 members globally.
By joining this guild, I’m apparently committing to promoting cheese culture, sharing my knowledge, and continuing to learn from the best. In practice its a very enjoyable place to spend time with people who have committed their lives, one way or another, to cheese.
The Guides Patron Saint is the Patron Saint of Cheesemakers, St Ugozo. He is also known as Lucio, Uguccione, Luguzzone and more. He was a shepherd in 13th or 14th century from Cavargna Valley (now in the Lombardy Alps). He still has a little chapel I’d like to visit.
Depicted as a shepherd who devoted himself to caring for both his flock and the local communities, legends say he performed miracles such preserving milk and cheese so no family went without. Sounds like a nice man.
Apparently Ugozo is also credited with introducing new methods of cheese making and aging.
No matter how cheesey I get, I dont think they will ever make me a saint.
Charlie Turnbull Member of the Guilde Internationale des Fromagers
Wine and cheese are an absolute shoe in a dinner table. But is selling cheese in a wine shop just as good
Abraham Lincoln once said “In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the cheese.” I love that,
From BH, Deli Supervisor, UK Testimonial: Introduction to Cheese on Zoom What they said…. Charlie’s extensive knowledge about cheese and the breakdown
