Arkansas Artisan Cheese
A Guide to the State's Finest Handcrafted Delights
Arkansas has fostered a burgeoning scene for artisan cheese (how long does cheese last?), reflecting the state's commitment to craftsmanship and locally-sourced produce. As Arkansas' first cut-to-order cheese (What wine goes well with cheese?) shop, Sweet Freedom Cheese in Bentonville exemplifies the state's dedication to the craft. Offering a curated selection of cheeses, charcuterie (What wine goes well with charcuterie?), and gourmet accompaniments, this shop has become a hub for cheese enthusiasts and a symbol of the state's artisanal food movement.
Further south in Little Rock, Kent Walker Artisan Cheese stands as a testament to the state's cheese-making renaissance. This cheery establishment not only offers a variety of cheeses but also invites guests to delve into the art of cheese-making. With a focus on quality and tradition, these venues, among others like the family-run White River Creamery and the emerging Red Roof Cheese Company, position Arkansas on the map for those in pursuit of exceptional artisanal cheeses.
History of Arkansas Artisan Cheese
The genesis of Arkansas artisan cheese can be traced back to a community deeply rooted in culinary tradition and local craftsmanship. With a heritage rich in agriculture, it was inevitable that artisanal methods would make their way to the dairy industry.
In the tradition of artisan cheesemaking, Arkansas cheesemakers have been pivotal in redefining the American cheese landscape. They've contributed to a renaissance that has seen a dramatic increase from just 48 artisan cheesemakers in the late 1970s to over 800 by 2012. This growth speaks to a vibrant movement towards handcrafted quality and diversity.
Era Cheesemaking Shifts Late 20th Century Emergence of local cheesemakers Early 21st Century Expansion, recognition, variety
Arkansas's Contribution: Local artisans, such as Kent Walker of Kent Walker Artisan Cheese, embody the spirit of the artisan cheesemaking movement in Arkansas. Walker's journey, which began with homemade cheeses traded for beer, illustrates the personal passion driving Arkansas's cheese culture. His transition from home kitchen setups to commercial storefronts is indicative of the state's broader shift. Artisan cheeses from Arkansas frequently showcase locally sourced milk from cows, goats, and sheep—a testament to the industry's range and resourcefulness.
Cheesemaking Culture: Arkansas cheesemakers, through publications like Culture Magazine, have solidified their presence in a global community of cheese connoisseurs. Their dedication to craft and quality elevates the profile of American artisan cheese. Guided by sustainable practices and an intimate knowledge of regional taste profiles, Arkansas artisan cheesemakers continue to shape a culture that prizes uniqueness and authenticity in every bite.
The Artisan Cheese Movement in the US
The transformation from industrial cheeses to the artisanal variety has been marked by the growth of local economies and an increase in specialized cheese education.
Impact on Local Economies
The artisan cheese movement has significantly boosted local economies across the US. Small businesses such as Sweet Freedom Creamery in Arkansas have thrived by partnering with other local entities, promoting a symbiotic relationship that bolsters regional commerce. Establishments like Kent Walker Artisan Cheese, also in Arkansas, serve as an exemplar of how an independent cheese factory can become a cornerstone of a local community, driving both economic activity and tourism.
Employment: Artisan cheese businesses generate jobs, from production to retail.
Tourism: With their unique offerings, artisanal cheese shops attract visitors seeking culinary experiences.
Market Diversity: Artisan cheese producers contribute to a diversified market, offering consumers a wide range of products outside the realm of mass-produced cheeses.
Certification and Education
The progression of artisan cheesemaking has been paralleled by the development of specialized education and certification programs. The American Cheese Society offers a Certified Cheese Professional exam, a benchmark for proficiency in cheese knowledge and reflects a deep understanding of cheese production, history, and handling. Institutions like Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food provide educational paths, incorporating cheese into a broader culinary curriculum. Meanwhile, Wine & Spirit Education Trust touches on pairing cheese with beverages, another layer of expertise sought in the food industry.
Education Pathways:
Culinary School Curricula: Incorporate classes on cheese making and pairing.
Degree Programs: Brightwater and similar institutions offer degrees in the culinary arts, often including a focus on cheesemaking.
Certification:
American Cheese Society: A bastion for cheesemakers, offering resources and certifications.
Certified Cheese Professional: A coveted title for those in the cheese industry.
Cheese Varieties and Producers in Arkansas
In Arkansas, a bevy of artisan cheesemakers offer a diverse array of high-quality cheeses, from traditional varieties to unique local flavors, showcasing the state's emerging dairy industry.
Kent Walker Artisan Cheese
Kent Walker Artisan Cheese, based in Little Rock, specializes in crafting a variety of handmade cheeses. Kent Walker, the proprietor, focuses on producing cheeses with rich flavors that reflect the character of the Natural State. Visitors can explore the selection at their cheerful location at 323 South Cross Street.
White River Creamery Products
White River Creamery, nestled in the heart of the Ozarks, produces artisan cheese and soap, using milk from their own dairy farm. This family-run creamery is renowned for their delicious goat cheese, contributing a unique offering to Arkansas's artisanal cheese landscape.
Other Notable Cheesemakers
Arkansas is home to more distinguished cheesemakers, such as Sweet Freedom Cheese, located in Bentonville. As Arkansas's sole cut-to-order cheese shop, Sweet Freedom Cheese presents a curated assortment of artisan cheeses and cured meats (What wine goes well with cured meats?). The state's cheesemakers are dedicated to maintaining high standards and crafting exceptional artisan cheeses that represent the essence of the region.
Cheese Shops and Markets
Arkansas boasts a diverse assortment of cheese shops and markets, offering an array of artisanal cheeses that cater to the tastes of cheese enthusiasts. From cut-to-order services to attending local farmers markets, cheese mongers in Arkansas are dedicated to providing the freshest and most unique cheese selections to their communities.
South Market Food Hall
In Little Rock, cheese lovers can visit the South Market Food Hall, which is renowned for housing a variety of local food vendors that include artisan cheese shops. Customers have the opportunity to interact with knowledgeable mongers, explore an enticing selection of cheeses, and enjoy a retail experience that focuses on quality and service.
Sweet Freedom Cheese at 8th Street Market
Bentonville is home to Sweet Freedom Cheese, located at the food-centric 8th Street Market. Here, one can find Arkansas' only cut-to-order cheese shop. Truly prioritizing artisanal craft, Sweet Freedom Cheese prides itself on its curated selection of fine cheeses, wines, and gourmet accompaniments. Being a cut-to-order shop, they offer a personalized experience, cutting cheeses precisely to customer specifications. They also contribute to the education of cheese lovers through offered cheesemaking classes.
Experiences and Tastings
Artisan cheese experiences in Arkansas provide both aficionados and casual consumers an opportunity to deepen their appreciation for cheese through expert-led tastings and educational cheesemaking classes. Visitors can expect to indulge in a variety of locally crafted cheeses, often paired with fine wines, and learn about the cheesemaking process from milk to maturity.
Wine and Cheese Pairings
In Arkansas, cheese enthusiasts can savor wine and cheese pairings that showcase the harmonization of flavors. Specialty cheese shops like Sweet Freedom Cheese offer a curated selection of artisanal cheeses and wines perfect for such an experience. Here, visitors might find their taste buds delighted by an event featuring wine complemented by a selection of or a handcrafted charcuterie. It is advisable to check for event schedules and opening hours to plan a visit.
Location: Sweet Freedom Cheese, 8th St. Market, Bentonville, AR
Hours: Mon-Thurs: 10:30 am–6:30 pm, Fri-Sat: 10:30 am–8:00 pm
Contact: (479) 268-5867
Cheesemaking Classes and Tours
Those curious about the process behind their favorite cheeses can participate in cheesemaking classes and guided tours. Places such as the Kent Walker Artisan Cheese facility in Little Rock open their doors to the public, offering a peek into the world of a cheesemaker. During these sessions, participants gain hands-on experience and insight into the crafting of quality artisan cheese.
Location: Kent Walker Artisan Cheese, 323 South Cross Street, Little Rock, AR
Services: Tours, Classes, Online Orders
Directions: Available through their contact or visitation information.
Visitors are encouraged to get directions and inquire about scheduled classes and events directly from these establishments to ensure an informative and enjoyable experience.
Cheese in Arkansas Cuisine
In Arkansas, artisanal cheese plays a vital role in the culinary scene, gracing the menus of a variety of restaurants and pairing exquisitely with regional produce and meats.
Restaurants Featuring Local Cheeses
Restaurants in Arkansas have embraced local cheesemakers, incorporating their cheese into their dishes. Bentonville, being a hub for foodies in Northwest Arkansas, has establishments that feature artisanal cheeses in various forms, from cheese plates to integrated menu items.
For instance, Sweet Freedom Cheese, Arkansas's premiere cut-to-order cheese shop, also operates as an education center, underscoring the passion for cheese in the region. This shop supplies high-quality artisanal cheese, often found on charcuterie platters in local restaurants. Diners can savor these cheeses along with cured meats and other gourmet accompaniments.
Pairings with Local Produce and Meats
Arkansas's culinary artisans have a knack for pairing local cheese with the freshest regional produce and meats, creating delightful flavor profiles unique to the area. Seasonal vegetables and fruits are often handpicked from local markets to accompany rich and creamy cheese varieties.
Local Cheese Suggested Pairings Creamy goat cheese Arkansas-grown apples, fresh or in a compote Sharp cheddar Locally sourced honey, nuts, or berry jams Smoked gouda House-made charcuterie, such as bacon or ham
Through thoughtful combinations, they celebrate the flavors of their community, resulting in exceptional dining experiences that highlight the quality and variety of Arkansas's own artisanal cheeses and meats.
Educational and Cultural Events
Arkansas’s artisan cheese scene is rich with educational and cultural events designed for enthusiasts to deepen their knowledge and appreciation for cheese-making. From intimate workshops to larger festive competitions, these events cater to a diverse audience ranging from curious beginners to industry professionals.
Cheese Lectures and Workshops
Sweet Freedom Cheese in Bentonville, AR, is known for extending beyond retail to offer educational experiences. They provide cheesemaking classes and tastings that allow cheese lovers to learn about the intricate processes behind artisan cheese production. Attendees gain hands-on experience and insights into cheese aging and flavor profiles.
In Little Rock, Kent Walker Artisan Cheese invites visitors to learn directly from an expert cheesemaker. Their classes cover various topics from the basics of cheese-making to advanced techniques, aiming to foster a community knowledgeable about artisan cheese.
Artisan Cheese Events and Competitions
The American Cheese Society (ACS) holds annual events that bring together cheese makers, retailers, and aficionados from across the nation, including those from Arkansas. These events often feature competitions that showcase the talents of local artisan cheese producers.
Furthermore, the Arkansas artisan cheese community participates in local and regional events where they can display their craftsmanship. These events serve to both educate the public on the diversity of American cheese and allow local cheesemakers the opportunity to gain recognition for their products.
Each event and class represents a commitment to preserving the art of cheese-making while fostering an inclusive space for learning and celebration within the cultural fabric of Arkansas.
Purchasing and Storing Artisan Cheese
When buying artisan cheese in Arkansas, consumers can visit cut-to-order cheese shops like Sweet Freedom in Bentonville. Purchasing cheese from such retailers ensures freshness and supports local businesses. In Little Rock, Kent Walker Artisan Cheese offers an experience that combines shopping with an introduction to the cheesemaking process.
Purchasing Guidelines:
Local Shops: Seek out local cheese shops or markets for a wide selection.
Expert Advice: Take advantage of knowledgeable staff for recommendations.
Sampling: Taste before buying when possible to appreciate the flavor profile.
Storing Cheese: Cheese storage is vital to maintaining flavor and texture. Here are the best practices:
Cheese Type Storage Method Temperature Shelf Life Fresh Cheese Airtight container or wrapping 35 °F/4 °C Shortest shelf life Aged Cheese Wax paper, then plastic wrap 35 °F/4 °C Longer shelf life
Refrigeration: Keep at around 35 °F/4 °C to ensure optimal freshness.
Containers: Use breathable materials for aged cheeses (What wine goes well with aged cheeses?) and airtight for fresh cheeses.
Label: Mark purchase dates to monitor aging.
Sales Channels:
Retail: Individual purchases can be made at specialty shops.
Wholesale: Larger quantities for restaurants or markets may be available for purchase directly from producers.
Maintaining the integrity of Arkansas's artisan cheese begins at purchase and is preserved through proper storage. These practices enable enthusiasts to savor the state's finest cheese offerings in their intended condition.
