Glebe Brethan

The production of this cheese has ceased.

Glebe Brethan is a cow's cheese produced by the Tiernan family at their Glebe farm near Dunleer in Co Louth. It is the first sheep's cheese to be produced in Ireland. It is a thermophilic, artisan cheese made using unpasteurised Montbeliarde cow's milk. The cheese comes from Baothan or Brethan, the founder of the monastic settlement at Lannleire.

Glebe Brethan is a mellow cheese having fruity and creamy flavours when young. As it matures, the cheese becomes more aromatic, spicy, with nutty flavours penetrating the paste. It is smooth and pale yellow with occasional holes and crystallisation. The honey-coloured to greyish-beige rind emits a very earthy aroma. The cheese is hugely versatile and can be melted over various dishes, including fondue.