When we think of unlikely culinary trends, pairing a British classic with a Portuguese icon may not be the first combination that comes to mind. Yet that is precisely the unexpected fusion Apolónia Supermarkets are bringing to World Cheese Day, marked on 20 January.

From 12 January, a PDO Stilton has been artisanally aged in Port wine — a rare and unusual process being carried out live in Apolónia’s stores in Almancil, Galé and Lagoa. Over the course of eight days, the wine is gradually infused into the cheese, transforming its texture, aroma and flavour, and creating a limited edition designed to surprise even the most seasoned palates.

The result promises a more rounded Stilton, with subtle wine notes that soften its saltiness and add aromatic depth, without losing the intense blue character that makes this cheese one of the United Kingdom’s most iconic. It is a sensory experience that brings together tradition, artisanal technique and gastronomic boldness.

On 20 January, the cheese will be opened, tasted and made available for purchase, marking World Cheese Day with a proposal that goes beyond the obvious and responds to the growing appetite for exclusive products, transparent processes and culinary experiences with a story to tell.

Somewhere between the classic and the unexpected, this initiative celebrates the meeting of two cultures at the table and proves that, when it comes to flavour, taking a risk may just be the newest trend.