Among Scotland’s growing movement of sustainable cheesemakers, few embody the spirit of ethical farming as beautifully as The Ethical Dairy. Their Rainton Tomme is a perfect example — a cheese that balances conscience with craftsmanship. Matured with care and made from the milk of cows that keep their calves by their side, this rustic tomme captures the integrity of the land, the herd, and the people behind it.
Based on Rainton Farm in Dumfries and Galloway, The Ethical Dairy was founded by David and Wilma Finlay, pioneers in sustainable dairy farming. Their approach is revolutionary: calves stay with their mothers for several months, cows graze freely on organic pastures, and the focus is firmly on animal welfare, biodiversity, and soil health. This cow-with-calf model — rare in modern dairying — produces milk that reflects both the health of the herd and the vitality of the land. The Ethical Dairy transforms this rich, full-flavoured milk into a range of award-winning cheeses that demonstrate how ethical farming can go hand in hand with exceptional taste.
A semi-hard, Alpine-style cheese crafted from raw, organic cow’s milk.
Rainton Tomme takes inspiration from traditional French tommes, but with a distinctly Scottish character. Each wheel is matured on wooden shelves for several months, developing a natural rind that hints at the pastoral environment of southwest Scotland. The interior paste is pale, supple, and speckled with tiny holes. The flavour begins gently — clean, lactic, and slightly nutty — then unfolds into deeper, earthy tones with a subtle tang. It’s a cheese that reflects both craftsmanship and place: humble in appearance but sophisticated in taste.
On the nose, Rainton Tomme offers a delicate blend of hay, fresh cream, and cellar earth — a natural, wholesome aroma that speaks of the farmyard in the best possible way. The texture is smooth and supple, firm enough to slice yet yielding on the palate. In taste, it starts lightly, with sweet dairy and buttery notes, before revealing a nutty, savoury depth balanced by a gentle acidity. As it matures, the cheese gains more complexity, with hints of toasted nuts and a whisper of meadow herbs lingering on the finish.
Pairing Suggestions
Rainton Tomme’s subtle, balanced character makes it a versatile companion at the table. It pairs beautifully with crisp white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or light reds like Pinot Noir, which highlight its nutty sweetness without overpowering it. For beer lovers, try it alongside a golden ale or Belgian-style saison — both echo the cheese’s grassy and earthy notes.
On a cheeseboard, Rainton Tomme sits comfortably between stronger washed-rind cheeses and fresh goat’s cheeses, bringing a mellow bridge of flavour. Serve it with fig chutney, green apple slices, or oatcakes for a truly Scottish pairing. It also melts beautifully, making it an excellent choice for gratin dishes or tartines where its gentle flavour can shine through.
