Oregon’s Best Artisan Cheesemakers and the Perfect Places to Try Them
Set among stunning mountains, lush forests, and windswept coastlines, Oregon has long been a haven for culinary artisans. From the fertile Willamette Valley to the misty shores of Tillamook, this land provides a bounty that has given birth to a rich cheesemaking culture. Let me guide you on a delectable journey, exploring ten of Oregon’s best artisan cheesemakers.
1. Face Rock Creamery
Located in the coastal town of Bandon, Face Rock Creamery is known for its award-winning cheddar. While you’re there, make sure to try the Vampire Slayer garlic cheddar and don’t forget the Creamery’s squeaky cheese curds, a delightful snack on its own, perhaps best enjoyed under the famous Face Rock sea stack’ shadow.2. Rogue Creamery
Over in Central Point, you’ll find the internationally acclaimed Rogue Creamery. Their blue cheese won the 2019-20 World Cheese Awards by storm. Try the Caveman Blue, perfect paired with a pears from the regional Harry & David shop, just a stone’s throw away.
3. Tillamook Cheese Factory
An Oregon institution, Tillamook Cheese Factory has been serving up dairy goodness for over a century. Located in Tillamook, a visit here is like stepping back in time. A tour of the creamery and their newly revamped visitor center is a must.4. Briar Rose Creamery
This charming creamery nestled in the foothills of Dundee crafts artisanal goat cheese that will delight your palate. Try the nutty Maia cheese, and if you’re lucky, you might catch sight of the cheesemaker’s goats grazing nearby.5. Portland Creamery
Known for their artisan goat cheese, Portland Creamery is a city staple. You can find their cheeses at local farmer’s markets and groceries, or better still, plan a visit to one of the creamery’s “Farm to Market” tours for a firsthand experience.6. Ancient Heritage Creamery
Based in Portland, Ancient Heritage makes cheese of an exceptional quality, blending modern and traditional techniques. They have their own farm in Scio, so make a trip and watch the milking sessions or lamb feeding, then reward yourself with a slice of Hannah, their signature cheese.7. Ferns’ Edge Dairy
Goat cheese lovers, rejoice! Fern’s Edge in Lowell offers farmstead goat cheese with a rich, creamy taste. Fancy a trip? Plan a scenic drive along the McKenzie River and drop by the farm; you may even be able to feed the goats!8. La Mariposa
In Albany, you’ll find La Mariposa making Argentinian-style handcrafted cheese. Their Queso de Mano is a prize-winner. After your tasting, grab a pint at the nearby Calapooia Brewing Co. for a perfectly Oregonian experience.9. Ochoa’s Queseria
In the heart of wine country, Ochoa’s Queseria churns out authentic Mexican cheese. You can find their delicious queso fresco and queso cotija at local farmers markets in the Yamhill area. Pair it with local Pinot noir for a lovely afternoon treat.10. By George Farm
At By George Farm in the scenic Applegate Valley, you’ll experience handcrafted, raw cow’s milk cheese. They offer an array of cheese from French-style camembert to an Italian-style caciotta. While there, enjoy a leisurely walk along the vineyard that borders the property.Tucked away in Oregon’s green pastures and bustling cities, these artisanal cheesemakers epitomize the state’s spirit of culinary craftsmanship. So allow your taste buds to take flight, and your heart to follow the twisting trails—cheeseboard in hand—on this decadent exploration of Oregon’s artisan cheese scene. Whether you’re a casual cheese lover or a dedicated connoisseur, there’s a dairy delight waiting just for you in the heartland of Oregon’s foodie culture. Enjoy the journey.