Discover Oregon’s Best Artisan Cheesemakers and Where to Taste Their Creations
As the fog rolls over the Willamette Valley and the scent of damp pine lingers in the air, there’s a hidden treasure throughout Oregon that any culinary enthusiast would be amiss to ignore – artisan cheese. Let’s explore the world of these talented cheesemakers and their craft that expresses the true spirit of Oregon.
1. Tillamook Creamery
Tillamook Creamery’s history is as rich as their creamy cheddar. Started over a century ago by several dairy farmers, they’ve produced some of the finest cheeses on the West Coast. Visit the creamery along the enchanting Oregon Coast and watch their cheesemaking process firsthand. Don’t forget to taste their award-winning, mature cheddar while you’re there.2. Rogue Creamery
If you find yourself in Southern Oregon, make a detour to Central Point for Rogue Creamery. Known for their exquisite blue cheeses, they’ve even won international awards. Find their cheeses at local farmers’ markets or make a trip to their creamery for the full experience.
3. Face Rock Creamery
Nestled in the small coastal town of Bandon you’ll find Face Rock Creamery. They specialize in aged cheddars and curds, all made with milk from local cows. Enjoy a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast and indulge in their famous Vampire Slayer Garlic Cheddar.4. Briar Rose Creamery
Tucked away in Dundee, Briar Rose Creamery makes sublime goat cheeses. Their craftsmanship has been recognized nationwide, so make sure to try their exceptional, seasonal varieties when you visit their quaint Creamery.5. Portland Creamery
Who would’ve thought some of the best cheese comes from the heart of urban Portland? Portland Creamery crafts delicious, high-quality goat cheese. When you’re exploring the Rose City, track down some of their cheese at local grocers or farmers markets.6. Ancient Heritage Dairy
A stone’s throw away from Portland resides Ancient Heritage Dairy in Madras. Renowned for their combination of sheep and cow’s milk cheeses, it’s worth the journey. Stop by and sample their handcrafted Valentine cheese made from both cow and sheep’s milk.7. Fern’s Edge Dairy
Eugene’s Fern’s Edge Dairy is all about goat’s cheese. Their Monteillet-style cheese, produced from healthy and happy goats who roam the foot of Mount Pisgah, will delight your tastebuds. Look for their cheeses at local grocery shops or visit their farm store in Lowell.8. Ochoa’s Queseria
A trip to Albany is incomplete without a visit to the family-run Ochoa’s Queseria. They make cheeses using traditional Mexican methods with a unique Oregon twist. Their creamy Oaxaca cheese is a must-try.9. Rivers Edge Chèvre
Rivers Edge Chèvre, located at the Siletz River’s edge, is a haven for cheese lovers. Their award-winning goat’s milk cheeses are exceptional, especially the bloomy-rind cheese Siltcoos.10. Cascadia Creamery
Located in the town of Trout Lake under the watchful eye of Mount Adams, Cascadia Creamery crafts raw, organic cheeses with an emphasis on preserving the heritage of the area. Their Glacier Blue Cheese is like tasting a piece of the Cascade mountains.It’s been a delight guiding you through the world of Oregonian cheesemaking. From the coastal fog-kissed towns to the vibrant cities, these skilled artisans lovingly craft their cheeses to reflect the soul of our breathtaking state. So, next time you’re planning a scenic drive, brewery visit or a hike, add these gems to your itinerary and experience the delicious slice of Oregon that’s as varied and profound as our landscape. Your taste buds won’t be disappointed!