An Insider’s Guide to Oregon’s Best Artisan Cheesemakers and Where to Try Them
Artisan cheese in Oregon is a tale as old as time. Our state’s glorious green pastures and quality farming have produced some of the finest fromages in the country. These ten extraordinary cheesemakers, plucked from the heart of the Beaver State, are crafting delicacies that would delight even the most discerning of cheese connoisseurs.1. Tillamook Cheese Factory
The Tillamook Cheese Factory needs no introduction. Known for their iconic orange cheddar, visiting this place is an Oregonian right of passage. Not only can you take a self-guided tour of their factory (located in Tillamook), but you’ll also have a chance to savor a variety of their cheeses, including some special limited-edition options.2. Face Rock Creamery
Located in Bandon, a coastal town famous for its rugged beauty, Face Rock Creamery is a must-visit for their award-winning cheddar and curds. Their Vampire Slayer Garlic Cheddar, in particular, is a must-try. After a day of sea-breeze and sandy toes, nothing beats a pit stop at this creamery.3. Rogue Creamery
Nestled in Southern Oregon, Rogue Creamery is the epitome of an artisan cheesemaker. Their Rogue River Blue was crowned the best cheese globally at the 2019/20 World Cheese Awards. The creamery is located in Central Point, a stone’s throw from the Rogue River, an excellent place for a post-cheese sampling stroll.
4. Pholia Farm Creamery
This family-run farm in Rogue River specializes in goat cheese. A visit here involves not only cheese tasting but also the joyous spectacle of frolicking baby goats. Just swing by Grants Pass Farmers Market to snatch up a sample of their daring ‘Hillis Peak’ or ‘Wimer Winter.’5. Ancient Heritage Dairy
This bustling urban creamery in Southeast Portland is perfect for those who love the city but also enjoy a touch of agrarian delight. They provide a splendid array of sheep and cow milk cheeses. Remember to grab a wedge of their ‘Adelle’ next time you’re biking along Water Avenue.6. Briar Rose Creamery
In the wine-loving town of Dundee, you’ll find Briar Rose Creamery. Minimalistic in design, their handmade goat cheeses prove that sometimes, less is more. The creamy sweet-tartness of their famous ‘Chevre’ pairs splendidly with a glass of the Willamette Valley’s finest Pinot Noir.7. Fern’s Edge Goat Dairy
Nestled in the lush landscape of the McKenzie River Valley, Fern’s Edge Goat Dairy is known for its fantastic goat cheddar. For adventurous foodies, try their Cajeta, traditional Mexican goat’s milk caramel at the Lane County Farmer’s Market.8. Rivers Edge Chèvre
Located in the Siletz River valley, Rivers Edge Chèvre is an artisan cheesemaker that makes a range of delicious goat cheeses. Their Up in Smoke, a fresh cheese wrapped in smoked maple leaves, is a real conversation piece at any Oregon tailgate party.9. Willamette Valley Cheese Company
Not far from Salem, the Willamette Valley Cheese Company crafts their cheese from milk sourced entirely from their herd of Jersey cows. With sweeping views of the Willamette Valley, this is an ideal spot for picnics. Don’t miss their award-winning ‘Boerenkaas.’10. La Mariposa
La Mariposa in Albany is a gem in the crown of Oregon’s artisan cheesemakers. Argentinean style cheeses are their specialty – unusual, but their Chubut is so enticing it has garnered a devoted local following.Drawing inspiration from our diverse landscapes and the boundless spirit of our great state, these cheesemakers are keeping Oregon’s food tradition alive, crafting fromages that are the perfect blend of old-world techniques and modern sensibilities. Whenever you are on the road exploring the Beaver State, remember to include these local delicacies in your adventure – and savour the simple pleasure of great cheese.