Oregon’s Hidden Gems: A Tour of the State’s Best Artisan Cheesemakers

1. Tillamook Creamery

Widely known across the nation, Tillamook Creamery in Tillamook, Oregon is an absolute must-visit for cheese enthusiasts. Offering a selection of rich and flavorful cheeses, they’re particularly revered for their signature cheddar. Be sure to plan your visit for a quiet weekday morning to skip the usual crowds.

2. Rogue Creamery

Situated in Central Point, Rogue Creamery is an artisanal paradise. Famous for their organic blue cheeses, Rogue has made its mark, even snatching a prized award in Italy. Arrive with an empty stomach and enjoy generous samples at their cozy cheese shop.

3. Face Rock Creamery

With the quaint coastal town of Bandon as its backdrop, Face Rock Creamery specializes in cheddar curds (“squeaky cheese”) that are positively addicting. Visitors can peek into their on-site creamery through viewing windows. The Cape Blanco Cheddar is a must-try.

4. Briar Rose Creamery

Situated in the charming town of Dundee, Briar Rose Creamery showcases true love for traditional cheesemaking. Their feta is even aged in Oregon pinot noir barrels. Enjoy a picnic on their farm after a tasting – the views of the Oregon wine country are simply breathtaking.

5. Pholia Farm Creamery

Pholia Farm Creamery in Rogue River is known for its goat cheeses. Visitors can indulge in a farm tour, where they have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the cheese-making process (and goats!). Remember to book tours ahead of time.

6. Fern’s Edge Dairy

Located in Lowell, Fern’s Edge produces some of the finest goat cheese in the state. Their dairy operates on a small scale, ensuring that the cheeses are not only tasty but also lovingly made. While there, pay a quick visit to the nearby Fall Creek State Recreation Area – a hidden beauty in itself.

7. Willamette Valley Cheese Co.

Visit Willamette Valley Cheese Company in Salem to indulge in handcrafted, organic cheeses. The brie is amazing, but don’t forget to try their gouda as well. With plenty of farms and vineyards around, this place is perfect for a day trip.

8. Juniper Grove Farm

Juniper Grove Farm in Redmond specializes in French-style goat cheeses, adding a unique value to Oregon’s cheese scene. Locals rave about their Chèvre, but trust us when we say – try everything. Its unassuming location in Redmond makes it a true hidden gem.

9. Ancient Heritage Dairy

Downtown Portland’s only urban creamery, Ancient Heritage Dairy crafts sheep and cow milk cheeses. Stop into their small cheese shop for a truly special, city-based farm-to-table experience. The Hannah is a must-try, as well as their adorably named Valentine cheese.

10. Rivers Edge Chèvre

Relish the splendid views of the Siletz River while spending a relaxing afternoon at Rivers Edge Chèvre in Logsden. Known for crafting some of the best goat cheeses, their Sunset Bay will leave you craving for more. It’s worth the scenic drive towards the Oregon Coast Range for this one.

Finally, Oregon’s rich artisan cheese scene offers more than just great cheese. It’s an invitation to engage with the local community and experience the rural landscapes and genuine hospitality that make our state so special. So the next time you’re on a tour of Oregon’s cheese trail, sit back, indulge and just enjoy being in the heart of it all.