A return to traditional cheese making methods saw Ford Farm’s Traditional Farmhouse Cheddar crowned Supreme Champion at this year’s International Cheese Awards.

Heloise D’Souza, spokesman for Ford Farm which is based on the Ashley Chase Estate at Litton Cheney near Dorchester, said the firm is delighted with the award.

The farm’s cave-aged Cheddar beat more than 3,700 other competitors to the top prize.

A panel of 150 expert judges from the dairy industry judged the farm’s cheese which was made in April 2010 as the best in show. Mike Pullin, managing director of Ford Farm, decided to revive the age old tradition of maturing cheese in caves five years ago. He said: “We persuaded Gerry Cottle, owner of the Wookey Hole Caves, to dedicate an area of the caves to our truckles. The concept was really successful.

“The caves provide a fantastic environment for cheese maturing due to the constant humidity and all year round temperature which results in the cheese taking on a deliciously distinctive, earthy flavour.”

He added: “We know the cheese is good. We have won several awards and we have fans all over the world who praise it regularly, but to have this verified by a panel of world experts is more than we could possibly hope for.”

Richard Paul, Nantwich Cheese Show Chairman, said the panel of expert judges were looking for flavour, for overall appearance and for the truly remarkable.

Ford Farm Wookey Hole Cave Aged Cheddar is available nationally from the deli counter in major supermarket chains and selected independent shops.