Free Glasgow masterclass shines spotlight on Europe’s lesser-known cheeses

Taking place at Glasgow’s Trades Hall on 9 July 2026, the European Cheese Masterclass: Under the Radar – An Exploration of Lesser-Known EU Cheeses will be hosted by cheese expert, writer and educator Patrick McGuigan.

Designed for retailers, cheesemongers and foodservice professionals, the event will shine a spotlight on niche organic, traditional, PDO- and PGI-protected cheeses that remain relatively unknown in the UK despite their distinctive provenance, flavour profiles and production methods.

During the two-hour session, McGuigan will guide attendees through a curated selection of cheeses from across the European Union, highlighting the terroir, farming practices and traditional cheesemaking techniques that make each one unique. The final line-up is currently being confirmed and is expected to feature eight specialist cheeses representing a range of European regions.

Alongside tastings, the masterclass will offer practical insights into how these cheeses can be successfully positioned on British cheese counters and menus. Attendees will learn about pairing opportunities with complementary EU food and drink products, as well as cross-selling techniques, serving suggestions and recipe ideas that can help drive customer engagement and sales.

The event forms part of the More Than Only Food & Drink campaign, which promotes the quality, authenticity and sustainability credentials of EU agri-food products. Participants will also gain an understanding of EU quality schemes, including Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) and Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, and the role they play in safeguarding regional food heritage and production standards.

With consumer demand for provenance-rich products continuing to grow, the masterclass aims to demonstrate how lesser-known European cheeses can offer speciality retailers a point of difference while delivering compelling stories for customers seeking new tastes and experiences.

The free-to-attend event is open to professionals who sell or serve cheese, including retailers, cheesemongers, wholesalers, distributors and foodservice operators. It will take place from 12pm to 2pm in the Robert Adam Room at Trades Hall, Glasgow.

Those interested in attending can request a place by contacting vickie@northpr.co.uk.