Journey Through the Flavors of the Oregon Artisan Cheese Trail

Oregon, with its lush green pastures and ever-changing weather, is a paradise for lovers of milk and cheese. The state is proud of its collection of artisan cheesemakers who turn simple milk into culinary masterpieces. Here’s a trail guide to some of the best places to tickle your taste buds with Oregon’s best artisan cheeses.

1. Tillamook Creamery

Venture toward Tillamook County’s namesake creamery on the northern edge of Oregon’s beautiful coastline. Known for its cheese-making tradition stretching back to the late 19th century, Tillamook turns out some of the richest, most flavorful cheeses around. Cheese enthusiasts line up to experience the free self-guided tour, where they can learn about the cheese-making process and sample a variety of cheeses. Don’t forget to try their exceptional Extra Sharp Cheddar.

2. Rogue Creamery

At the Rogue Creamery in Central Point, southern Oregon, expect to be greeted by the delightful aroma of aging cheese. Famed for their blue cheeses, most notably the ‘Rogue River Blue’ which has won accolity worldwide, including a super gold at the World Cheese Awards. The shop offers tastings and their knowledgeable staff are always thrilled to share their craft with visitors.

3. Willamette Valley Cheese Co.

Just outside of Salem, in the heart of the Willamette Valley, resides Willamette Valley Cheese Co. This family-owned farmstead creamery is dedicated to producing quality organic, handcrafted cheeses. Try their award-winning Borenkaas – this Dutch style cheese is beloved by locals and visitors alike.

4. Face Rock Creamery

Move along the Pacific Ocean shoreline towards Bandon, where you’ll find Face Rock Creamery. It’s a young cheese company, making waves with their standout dairy delights. Be sure to indulge in their Vampire Slayer curds, an outlandishly named but irresistible garlic-infused cheddar.

5. Fern’s Edge Goat Dairy

Nestled in the rolling hills of the Cascade foothills near Lowell, Fern’s Edge Goat Dairy is a hidden gem. Visit their boutique to taste their exceptional goat cheeses. The Mont St. Francis, a smoky, tangy goat cheese, is a personal favorite of many local cheese lovers.

6. Briar Rose Creamery

In the nation’s nursery capital — Dundee, Oregon — the Briar Rose Creamery produces award-winning cheese from the milk of local Jersey cows and goats. Try their Maia cheese, it possesses a smooth texture and delicate flavor with hints of honey and wildflower.

7. Jacobs Creamery

Moving north towards little Washington town of Chehalis finds the Jacobs Creamery. Known for their delicious buttermilk, they also produce handcrafted European style cheeses. The bloomy-rind brie cheese is a customer favorite, with its buttery taste and a hint of earthiness.

8. Rivers Edge Chevre

Located in Logsden, in the heart of the Coast Range, you’ll discover Rivers Edge Chevre. This family-owned creamery produces exceptionally creamy and flavorful goat cheese. Their Siltcoos cheese, wrapped in sweet chestnut leaves soaked in Tuica (a Romanian fruit brandy) is not to be missed.

9. Goldin Artisan Goat Cheese

Traveling towards the northeast of Portland brings you to Molalla, home to Goldin Artisan Goat Cheese. This farmstead operation uses traditional French methods to create their robust, flavorful goat cheese. Each wheel is unique, reflecting the subtle changes in the seasons and the local environment.

10. Pholia Farm Creamery

In the tiny town of Rogue River, you’ll find Pholia Farm Creamery, nestled amongst stately oaks. They’re renowned for making extraordinary cheese exclusively from their small herd of Nigerian dwarf goats. ‘Hillis Peak’, earthy and complex in taste, is a must-try for any cheese enthusiast.

As you explore these fabulous creameries, remember to take in the breathtaking Oregon beauty that surrounds them – from the coastal waves to the mountain vistas – it’s as rich and diverse as the cheeses you’ll experience. Savor the journey, the flavors, and the Oregonian spirit that makes these artisan cheeses truly exceptional. Happy cheese hunting, my friends!