Explore Oregons Top Artisan Cheesemakers: Locations & Tasting Experiences

The Cream of the Crop: Oregon’s Best Artisan Cheesemakers

Among our breathtaking mountains, lush vineyards and a vibrant food scene, Oregon’s artisan cheese scene stands as a delightful surprise. Connoisseurs and the cheese-curious alike are in for a treat with these ten exceptional cheesemakers. Follow us on this creamy, dreamy journey around the Beaver State.

1. Tillamook Creamery

Nestled in the small coastal town of Tillamook, this historic creamery has been crafting cheese since 1909 — their authentic cheddar is a true Oregonian favorite. Head to their Visitor Center for a self-guided tour to learn about their craft and sample the beloved cheese. Don’t miss the squeaky cheese curds!

2. Rogue Creamery

Situated in the heart of Southern Oregon’s beautiful Rogue Valley, Rogue Creamery is famous for its blue cheese, a regular winner in international competitions. Pop into their cheese shop in Central Point for a wide selection of their handmade wheels. They also host an annual cheese festival to celebrate Oregon’s artisan cheeses.

3. Face Rock Creamery

Just a stone’s throw from the Pacific in Bandon, Face Rock Creamery’s signature cheese, the cheddar cheese curds, is a must-try. Visit their creamery to taste their wide assortment of cheese and make sure to enjoy a scoop of their homemade ice cream topped with their special cheese curd topping.

“Discover the creamy, crumbly, and downright delicious world of Oregon’s artisan cheesemaking. Join us on an authentic local adventure to find the best cheese havens in our beautiful state 🧀🍷🌲”

4. Briar Rose Creamery

Located in the beautiful Willamette Valley, Briar Rose Creamery crafts award-winning goat cheeses and aged cow’s milk cheese. Their unique taste comes from the quality milk sourced from local free-grazing herds in Dundee. Visit their farm store in Dundee where you can taste and buy their exquisite range of cheeses.

5. Rivers Edge Chèvre

A breathtaking drive upon the Coastal Range leads to Rivers Edge Chèvre nestled in Logsden. Renowned for their goat’s milk cheeses, their bloomy rind and fresh chevre are truly remarkable. Their cheeses are seasonally inspired, proving that rural Siletz River Valley surely brings forth the best.

6. Willamette Valley Cheese Co.

A family-owned farm in Salem, they’ve been delighting cheese lovers with their handcrafted, organic cow’s milk cheeses since 2002. Their European style cheese, aged gouda in particular, is a standout. Stop by their farm store or meet them at the Portland Farmers Market!

7. Ancient Heritage Dairy

Conveniently located in the heart of Portland’s Central Eastside district, Ancient Heritage Dairy offers a unique urban creamery experience. With a focus on sheep’s milk cheeses, their Valentine variety is truly unique. Swing by the creamery for a tasting or a delightful cheese-oriented brunch on weekends.

8. Ochoa’s Queseria

Friendly faces welcome you in Albany where Ochoa’s Queseria crafts Mexican style cheese with a Pacific Northwest twist. Don’t miss their Queso Fresco, the traditional Mexican cheese, fresh and milky and your perfect mate for tacos. Pick some up at their dairy, or at select markets and restaurants around the state.

9. Ferns’ Edge Dairy

Set amid lush pastures of Lowell, Fern’s Edge Dairy produces high-quality goat milk cheese from their herd of healthy goats. Their Mt. Zion cheese, a blend of nutty and sharp flavors, is a must-try. Their products are available at Eugene’s Saturday Market or at local co-ops.

10. Goldin Artisan Goat Cheese

A small family farm in Molalla, Goldin Artisan handcrafts organic, raw goat cheeses. They take pride in their traditional French-style hard cheese, Crottin de Chavignol, a treat to your palate. Visitors are welcome, but call ahead as they can be busy in cheesemaking.

From the coast to the valleys, the mountains to the vibrant cities, Oregon’s artisan cheese landscape is as diverse as its natural beauty. So, explore these local gems, and embark on to discover the beautiful, hearty soul of Oregon reflected in our cheese. Don’t forget to take some back home, to savor these creamy delights at your own pace, and remember your visit to our great Beaver State.

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