Oregon’s Hidden Gems: Our 10 Best Artisan Cheesemakers
Nestled in valleys, tucked away in prairieland, or spread out along our beautiful coastal hillsides, Oregon’s artisan cheesemakers are creating elbow-bendingly delicious cheeses. The vast diversity in terrain across our Beehive State lends to unique flavor profiles and distinct styles of cheese – guaranteed to make taste buds do a happy dance.1. Tillamook Creamery
Let’s start with the big cheese, Tillamook. There’s more to this place than just delicious sharp cheddar. Located on Oregon’s Pacific coast, this spot’s become an icon with generations of cheese artisans using milk from family-owned farms. Go on a self-guided tour, see cheesemaking in action, and finish off by sampling some of their award-winning cheeses.2. Face Rock Creamery
Located in Bandon, the Face Rock Creamery gives you a robust insight into cheese culture. Home to the critically acclaimed Vampire Slayer Garlic Cheddar, Face Rock prides itself on making traditional European-style cheddar and unique flavored curds. Stop by their creamery to sample a variety of cheeses and take in the breathtaking view of the Oregon coastline.3. Rogue Creamery
In the heart of Rogue Valley is the Rogue Creamery, famous for its blue cheese. The creamery’s Rogue River Blue has even won a global title for best cheese. Take the scenic trip down Route 5 to Central Point, and you’d not only taste award-winning cheese but also experience our valley’s rich agricultural scenery.
4. Blue Heron French Cheese Co.
The Blue Heron French Cheese Co. is a mandatory pit-stop for any cheese lover traveling through Tillamook. Not only do they offer scrumptious brie but also homemade smoked salmon, wine, and local goods. The place also houses a petting zoo – definitely a welcome diversion for the kiddos.5. Ancient Heritage Dairy
In the heart of downtown Portland, you’ll find Ancient Heritage Dairy, a family-run operation specializing in sheep’s and cow’s milk cheeses. Don’t miss their Hannah, a hard cheese with a nutty rind and a buttery core. If you adore food stories, wander around their shop and learn about each cheese’s tale just as much as you savor it.6. Tumalo Farms
From desert-fed goats comes the unique and exquisite flavors of Tumalo Farms in Bend. Dutch cheesemaker Flavio DeCastilhos’s expertise is on full display here with cheeses named after local landmarks like “Pondhopper” and “Classico”. The way to Tumalo is nothing short of spectacular, traveling through beautiful Deschutes National Forest.7. Willamette Valley Cheese Co.
Tucked in the picturesque landscapes of Salem is the organic-friendly Willamette Valley Cheese Company. What sets this creamery apart is their all-organic Gouda, distinguished by its rich, buttery notes. The exquisite dairy goodness matched with stunning valley views is a memory you’d cherish.8. Pholia Farm
Venture off the beaten path to the heart of Rogue River Valley, where you’ll find Pholia Farm. It takes pride in its minimalist, off-grid operation, using 100% Nigerian Dwarf goat milk. With pre-booking, you can have a personalized tour and sample some delicious raw milk cheeses.9. Ferns’ Edge Goat Dairy
In the foothills of Mount David, Ferns’ Edge Goat Dairy passes down traditional cheesemaking secrets through generations. This farmstead dairy crafts premium Chèvres and artisan aged cheeses from their high-quality goat milk. A trip here doubles as a lovely getaway through our lush, green forests.10. Briar Rose Creamery
This small-scale operation in Dundee takes cheesemaking to an artisan level, fairy-tale style. Briar Rose Creamery meticulously handcrafts cheeses brimming with the region’s flavors. Try their classic Chèvre, and don’t forget to sample their unique truffle cheese if you’re lucky to be there at the right season.So there they are, 10 of Oregon’s crown jewels for the cheese lovers among us. Whatever roads or trails take you around our beautiful state, remember, there’s possibly a delightful cheesy treat waiting for you somewhere along the way. Bon voyage and Bon appétit!