Exploring Oregon’s Cream of the Crop: The Best Artisan Cheesemakers
If there’s one thing Oregon knows how to curate beautifully, it’s food– and top-notch artisan cheeses are no exception. Here we celebrate Oregon’s unsung culinary heroes, the cheesemakers. For those who relish gourmet dairy delights, this guide shines a spotlight on ten of Oregon’s best artisan cheesemakers and the locales where their craft can be best enjoyed.
1. Tillamook Cheese Factory
Tillamook is just about as synonymous with cheese as Oregon. Located on the misty coast of Tillamook County, the factory offers self-guided tours where you can peek at the cheese-making process, but the real treat is the ample tasting room. Breathtaking coastal scenery is a bonus!2. Face Rock Creamery
In the charming Southern Oregon town of Bandon, Face Rock Creamery specializes in aged cheddar that would give European classics a run for their money. After your tasting, don’t forget to explore the nearby Bandon Dunes for an authentic coastal Oregon experience.
3. Rogue Creamery
Known far and wide for their remarkable variety of blue cheese, Rogue Creamery is located in Central Point. Their smoky, succulent “Oregon Blue” promises an experience to remember. Once sufficiently cheese-happy, head to the nearby Rogue River for some fishing or hiking fun.4. Ancient Heritage Dairy
Portland’s urban creamery, Ancient Heritage, brings a slice of the province to the heart of the city. Their Amy’s Walla cheese is an absolute must-try. Step out after your visit to this Pearl District gem and explore Portland’s thriving urban culture.5. Rivers Edge Chevre
Rivers Edge, located in the lush Willamette Valley, is where Chevre achieves its zenith. Their goat cheeses, like Siltcoos and Up in Smoke, are exceptional. If there’s time, plan an excursion to the local vineyards for a wine and cheese pair-up akin to a symphony.6. Briar Rose Creamery
A true small-batch operation, Briar Rose Creamery in Dundee has been making an array of goat’s milk cheeses that feel simultaneously classic and innovative. Try their signature ‘’Chocolate Goat Cheese Truffles’’ They’re perfect for picnics in the nearby Willamette Valley.7. Fern’s Edge Goat Dairy
It’s worth adventuring to Lowell to experience Fern’s Edge Goat Dairy’s fresh goat cheeses. Particularly noteworthy are their lovely varieties of feta. For a real local adventure, there are several trails off Highway 58 for a post-cheese outdoor excursion.8. Goldin Artisan Goat Cheese
Goldin Artisan, located in Molalla, offers small-batch, farmstead goat cheese. The rustic setting adds to the charm of an already lovely cheese-tasting experience. Go local by attending the annual Molalla Buckaroo Rodeo after your cheese tasting visit.9. Portland Creamery
Located right in the heart of Oregon City, Portland Creamery begins with happy goats and ends with simple, fresh chevre of the finest quality. Treat yourself to their Sweet Fire chevre for a sublime experience.10. La Mariposa Creamery
La Mariposa, found in Albany, has a small yet impressive lineup of rustic, handcrafted cow’s and goat’s milk cheeses. Noteworthy choice: Chubut, a semi-hard, creamy delight. Nearby Thompson’s Mills State Heritage Site makes a lovely exploration post-cheese tasting.With such a diverse lineup of inspired, dedicated cheesemakers, it’s hard to go wrong on any cheese-tasting trip around Oregon. Here’s to the cheesemakers who harness Oregon’s bountiful pastures and our adventurous palates, creating a symphony of flavors that make us proud locals and much-envied cheese lovers. Wishing you a delicious exploration through Oregon’s best artisan cheesemakers’ territory. Enjoy this epic journey of cheese tasting, and don’t forget to say Cheeeeese!