Stilton cheese is a variety of blue cheese, that is made only in certain areas of the UK. Its origin can be traced back to the early 18th century, and although the original recipe has changed over the years, it still remains one of the world's best-known cheeses. Since 1996, Stilton has had European Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status. This means that for this cheese to be called Stilton, it can only be manufactured in certain areas of the UK (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire), and must be produced according to the traditional recipe. This is similar to the way that champagne can only be called champagne if it is made in the Champagne region of France from grapes that are grown in that region.