Lotenhulle Rouge is a semi-hard Belgian cheese produced by Little Cheese Farm, made from pasteurised whole cow’s milk sourced exclusively from their own farm in the village of Lotenhulle, East Flanders. The cheese is easily recognised by its natural reddish-orange rind, which develops during maturation under the influence of specific surface microflora, while the interior is pale yellow, compact yet slightly elastic, with small irregular eyes.
In its younger stage, the texture is creamy and supple, gradually becoming firmer and more structured as it matures, gaining greater aromatic depth. The flavour profile is balanced and warm, with notes of hay, hazelnut and gentle caramel, accompanied by a subtle sweetness and a very mild hint of spiciness in the finish.
The aroma is expressive without being overpowering, making the cheese approachable and versatile for a wide range of consumers. Production is based on milk from cows fed on grass and hay from the farm’s own pastures, which directly contributes to the purity and consistency of flavour.
Lotenhulle Rouge is aged in a controlled environment where it is regularly cared for to develop its characteristic rind and even texture. The cheese pairs well with sourdough bread, nuts, mild fruit chutneys, and lighter beers or medium-bodied white wines.
Producer
Little Cheese Farm is a Belgian family-run artisanal cheese producer based in Lotenhulle, in the East Flanders region between Ghent and Brussels, known for its fully integrated “from pasture to cheese” approach. On their own fields, cows - especially the Jersey breed - are fed grass and hay produced on the farm, resulting in milk naturally rich in fat and protein, which forms the foundation of their high-quality cheeses.
Close control over animal welfare and feeding allows for a short production chain and exceptional freshness, with more than 99% of the milk used coming directly from their own herd. The entire cheesemaking process takes place on site, from milk coagulation and curd handling to pressing, salting, and maturation, under carefully managed temperature, humidity, and airflow conditions in the aging rooms.
Little Cheese Farm produces a diverse range of cheeses, from traditional Belgian Gouda-style varieties such as Gentenaer to more distinctive and experimental creations like Orange Emperor, made with added carrot juice, as well as cheeses flavored with spices or beer and naturally ripened rind cheeses with varied flavor profiles. Their work has gained recognition for craftsmanship and consistency, reflecting a strong balance between tradition and innovation.
The farm also welcomes visitors for tastings and guided visits, and all of their artisanal cheeses are available directly through the on-site farm shop.