Sage Derby cheese

Sage Derby is a variety of Derby cheese that is mild, mottled green and semi-hard, and has a sage flavor. The color is from sage and sometimes other coloring added to the curds, producing a marbling effect and a subtle herb flavor. The color is formed either by mixing sage leaves into the curd before it is pressed or by the addition of "green curd" from green corn or spinach juice. In the latter case, the flavor has to be created with colorless sage extract. Parsley, spinach and marigold leaves, bruised and steeped before use, can also be included instead of the sage leaves. It is aged for one to three months.