The Cream of the Crop: Oregon’s Best Artisan Cheesemakers and Where to Try Their Delights
In the lush, verdant valleys of Oregon, nestled between majestic mountains and scenic coastlines, you’ll find dairy farms as rich and diverse as the state itself. These farms produce some of the finest artisan cheeses in the Pacific Northwest, crafted with care by passionate cheesemakers sure to tantalize your taste buds.1. Tillamook Creamery
Let’s start strong with the icon of Oregon cheese, Tillamook Creamery. The creamery offers an extensive tour where you can peek at their craft in action. Fancy a nibble? The creamery’s shop brims with cheddar, gouda, and specialty delights. Wait! Don’t forget the ice cream, a regional favorite especially on sunny coastal afternoons.2. Rogue Creamery
Rogue Creamery in Central Point has made quite a name for itself. Their “Rogue River Blue” claimed the title of World’s Best Cheese in 2019. Trust us; it’s worth the scenic drive along the Rogue River to taste their award-winning blues and their creamy, robust cheddars.3. Face Rock Creamery
Over in Bandon, you’ll encounter a gem named Face Rock Creamery. This spot is a paradise for curd lovers, especially those fond of squeaky cheese. An added bonus? Try pairing their renowned ‘Vampire Slayer’ garlic-infused cheddar with local wines for a killer combo.
4. Portland Creamery
From the coastal countryside to urban Portland, you’ll find Portland Creamery. This city-based cheesery specializes in goat cheese. Try the ‘Sweet Fire’, a blend of sweet and spicy flavors that’s a culinary revelation.5. Briar Rose Creamery
Nestled in the rolling hills of Dundee, Briar Rose Creamery is nationally recognized for their impeccable craft of goat milk cheeses. Whether you fancy classic chevre or the herb-infused Galene, their cheeses are worthy of a lingering wine country picnic.6. Tumalo Farms
The Central Oregon high desert is the stunning home of Tumalo Farms. These folks are well beloved for their aged goat cheeses, especially ‘Classico’. On your visit, make sure to enjoy the rugged beauty of Smith Rock State Park nearby!7. Ancient Heritage Dairy
At Ancient Heritage Dairy in Madras, the Clark family handcrafts soft-ripened sheep and cow’s milk cheeses. Dig into ‘Adelle,’ a buttery delight that pairs perfectly with artisan bread from Sparrow Bakery in Bend, just a short drive away.8. Ochoa’s Queseria
For a different spin, head to Ochoa’s Queseria in Albany. Here, the Ochoa family churns out traditional Mexican cheeses following age-old techniques. This is the spot for the best queso fresco north of the border.9. Rivers Edge Chèvre
Just south of the bustling streets of Corvallis, by the Siletz River, you’ll find Rivers Edge Chèvre. The classic ‘True Love’ is a must-try, as it’s layered with vegetable ash, a nod to French tradition, and includes a complex flavor profile worthy of its name.10. Fern’s Edge Dairy Goat Farm
Rooted in the Pacific Northwest’s organic farming tradition, Fern’s Edge Dairy Goat Farm in Lowell excels in producing quality goat milk cheeses. They’re beloved for their unique ‘Mt. Tom’, a Tomme-style cheese that sings the praises of Oregon’s unique terroir.Whether you’re a dedicated cheese connoisseur or just a foodie looking to explore Oregon’s diverse offerings, exploring the state through its artisan cheesemakers is an unforgettable journey. From the high desert to the heart of the city, Oregon’s visionary cheesemakers craft their products with passion and precision, making each bite a celebration of our beloved Beaver State.