MEET: Lily Morris, Morris’ Of Usk
Lily Morris, Morris’ of Usk
We chat to Lily Morris, head cheesemonger at Morris’ of Usk in Monmouthshire, and winner of Young Cheesemonger of the Year 2023 .
WHY SHOULD SOMEONE VISIT YOUR SHOP?
At our family’s farm shop in South Wales, we only source the best quality cheese and make sure it’s kept in optimum condition. I believe artisan cheese should be looked after with the upmost respect, as I know how much care is put into making it. We have over 40 cheeses in our counter and over half are British. We are always happy to help customers explore the world of cheese, whether you’re a cheese novice or a connoisseur.
WHO IS YOUR BRITISH CHEESE HERO?
It would be impossible to select just one British cheese hero, as I believe everyone who champions British cheese is one. But someone who deserves recognition is Tracey Colley of the Academy of Cheese. Throughout my career she has been so caring and encouraging, and I know she’s like this with everyone in the community. Her work for British cheese is shaping the future too. She hosts the amazing Young Cheesemonger and Affineur of the Year competitions, which help highlight talent within the cheese world. She really is a cheese legend!
WHAT IS THE MOST ESSENTIAL TOOL IN THE MONGERING BUSINESS?
Obviously a cheese wire is a good place to start, but I believe having passion about cheese is one of the most important tools to have. If you love what you’re selling, it makes it so much easier.
HOW MUCH CHEESE DO YOU EAT A WEEK?
I eat cheese every single day. And I am proud to admit it! Most days I try and incorporate different styles into each of my meals. My go-to at the moment is feta, it’s so versatile and very moreish.
IF YOU COULD EAT ONLY ONE CHEESE FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE, WHICH WOULD IT BE?
At the moment, I am addicted to Baron Bigod, a deliciously rich British brie-style, made in Suffolk. I love eating it on a Peter’s Yard sourdough cracker and drizzling honey on top of it (10/10).
WHAT’S THE MOST UNUSUAL REQUEST YOU’VE HAD FROM A CUSTOMER?
“Do you have any of the plastic burger cheese?” … Um, we’re not that kind of place, sorry... haha!
WHAT’S HOT IN CHEESE RIGHT NOW?
Customers have been asking for sheep and goat’s milk cheeses recently. A few years back, our counter was predominantly cow’s milk, but we’re now selling lots of cheeses like Killeen, Rachel, La Oveja Negra Manchego, to name a few. It’s great to see our customers becoming more adventurous!
Visit: Morris’ of Usk, Llanbadoc, Usk, Monmouthshire NP15 1TG
Follow: @thepetitecheese