A Cheese Lover’s Guide to Oregon’s Finest Artisan Cheesemakers
In Oregon, it’s understood that some of the best things in life are homegrown. So, why should our cheese be any different? With a dedication to quality and a respect for traditional cheesemaking methods, Oregon’s artisan cheesemakers are producing some of the finest, award-winning cheeses right here in our own beautiful state.
1. Tillamook Creamery
Tillamook Creamery, located on Oregon’s stunning Northern Coast, is possibly the most well-known creamery in the state and for good reason. Known particularly for their sharp cheddar, visiting the Creamery is a must. A self-guided tour, complete with cheese samples, is a great way to spend the day in the Tillamook area.2. Face Rock Creamery
In the charming coastal town of Bandon, you’ll find Face Rock Creamery. They’re famous for their squeaky cheese curds, and don’t you dare leave without trying the ‘Vampire Slayer’ garlic-infused cheddar. Their store also features other Oregon-made products, making it a superb spot for gift shopping.
3. Rogue Creamery
Rogue Creamery, in Central Point, prides itself on creating sustainable, organic, and delicious artisan cheese. Their Rogue River Blue cheese was crowned the best in the world at the 2019/20 World Cheese Awards. The Creamery offers tours, ideal for any cheese enthusiast.4. Fern’s Edge Dairy
Fern’s Edge Goat Dairy, based in the heart of the Willamette Valley in Lowell, is a haven for goat cheese lovers. Their Mt. Zion, a hard, mild cheese, is splendid. The cheese is available at local farmer’s markets around Lane County.5. Portland Creamery
Portland Creamery, in Oregon’s most famous city, offers some seriously tempting goat cheese. The Creamery operates on ethical farming and cheesemaking practices and it shows in the quality of their farm-fresh chevre. You can find their products in farmer’s markets and gourmet food stores in and around Portland.6. Pholia Farm Creamery
Located in the idyllic setting of Rogue Valley, Pholia Farm Creamery has a focus on aged, raw milk, farmstead cheeses from Nigerian dwarf goats. Their raw milk ‘Hillis Peak’ cheese is a staple for Oregon cheese connoisseurs. The farm welcomes visitors, but always call ahead to book a tour.7. Ochoa’s Queseria
For those with a taste for Mexican cheese, Ochoa’s Queseria in Albany is a must-visit. Their sought-after Oaxaca cheese is a flavorful, creamy treat that’s perfect for cooking. This family-run business is dedicated to keeping their Mexican heritage alive through their traditional cheesemaking.8. Ancient Heritage Dairy
Ancient Heritage Dairy, in the heart of Portland, is unique for producing both cow’s milk and sheep’s milk cheese. Visit their urban creamery and treat yourself to a wedge of ‘Valentine’, a delectable, soft-ripened sheep-cow blend.9. Willamette Valley Cheese Company
Nestled just outside of Salem, Willamette Valley Cheese Company delivers handcrafted, organic, farmstead products. When visiting, don’t skip out on their Gouda, which is exceptional. Their cheeses can be tasted and bought straight from their creamery.10. Goldin Artisan Goat Cheese
Goldin Artisan Goat Cheese, a small farm located between Molalla and Estacada, is known for their French-Alpine style goat cheese. Although not typically open to the public, their cheeses can be found in various farmers markets in the Portland area.There you have it, a tantalizing trail of Oregon’s finest artisan cheesemakers. By supporting these hardworking artisans, we’re also supporting a sustainable, local approach to cheesemaking. It’s about time we let the world know that Oregon isn’t just about craft beer and Pinot Noir, we make some extraordinary cheeses too! So, whether you are a local or a traveler, taste your way around our magnificent state one fantastic cheese at a time.