Georgia Artisan Cheese
A Guide to the State's Finest Cheesemakers
Georgia has become a noteworthy player in the artisan cheese (how long does cheese last?) movement, carving out a space for itself within the American cheese industry. Deep in the rolling hills of Roopville, Udderly Cool Creamery began handcrafting cheese in 2010, quickly establishing itself among cheese connoisseurs. The craft of cheesemaking in Georgia is nurtured by the passion and dedication of local cheesemakers like Jeff Green and his wife Karen, who have become synonymous with the state's rising profile in artisanal dairy products.
In places like Thomasville, artisan cheese shops offer a selection of fine cheeses paired with wines and craft beers, demonstrating Georgia's commitment to a traditional yet innovative approach to their dairy craft. An emblem of this dedication is Sweet Grass Dairy, a name that resonates with recognition for their raw milk farmstead cheeses. They have earned national accolades, such as the 2015 First Place award from the American Cheese Society for their Green Hill cheese, affirming Georgia's standing in the artisan cheese community.
The growth of artisan cheesemaking in Georgia reflects a broader appreciation for locally-sourced, quality ingredients and ties to Georgian cuisine, where traditions hold a place at the forefront of culinary innovation. This development supports a statewide initiative promoting Georgia Grown products, from cheeses to gourmet dog treats, spotlighting the state's rich agricultural landscape. As more artisanal foods emerge from Georgia, they carry with them the flavors and stories of a region steeped in culinary history and a bright, delicious future.
History of Georgian Cheese
Georgian cheesemaking boasts a heritage steeped in ancient traditions, with evidence suggesting that cheese has been an integral part of Georgian culture for thousands of years. The tradition of cheesemaking is closely tied to the country's agricultural practices, with each region developing its own distinct variety.
One traditional Georgian cheese that stands out is Narchvi, a cheese lesser-known to the wider world but deeply ingrained in the local cheesemaking lore. Made in the mountainous regions of Georgia, this cheese represents the connection between the land and its people, encapsulating a flavor profile unique to the area's climate and topography.
In terms of traditional varieties, Georgia is renowned for its unique cheeses, such as Sulguni and Tushuri Guda. Sulguni is a semi-hard cheese known for its mildly sour taste and stretchy texture, a staple in the Georgian diet. Conversely, Tushuri Guda is a raw-milk cheese that echoes Georgia's pastoral traditions, often aged in sheepskin sacks, which imbues it with its characteristic flavor.
Throughout history, Georgian cheese-making suffered during the Soviet era, where a state-planned economy suppressed artisanal methods. However, recent years have seen a revival, with dedicated individuals working to restore lost cheeses to their former glory. This renaissance of native cheesemaking underscores the resilience and importance of traditional Georgian cheeses as part of the nation's cultural identity.
Types of Georgian Artisan Cheese
Georgia's artisan cheese making boasts a variety of unique cheese types, some influenced by techniques from other regions, while others are purely local inventions with traditional methods passed down through generations.
Alpine-Style Cheeses
Alpine-style cheeses in Georgia take inspiration from the mountainous regions of Europe. These cheeses are typically aged and have a firm texture. One notable Georgian cheese in this category is Guda, which is aged in sheepskin, imparting a distinctive flavor and character akin to classic Alpine cheeses.
Fresh Cheeses
In the realm of Fresh cheeses (What wine goes well with fresh cheeses?), Georgia offers options such as the soft and versatile Imeruli. This cheese is not aged and is known for its mild, slightly tangy flavor profile. Its freshness is in contrast to aged varieties, making it a popular choice for consumption with bread and in cooking for its ability to complement other flavors without overpowering them.
Brined Cheeses
A quintessential example of Georgian Brined cheeses is Feta-style cheeses. While not identical to Greek Feta, Georgian versions share the salty and tangy characteristics due to the brining process. Sulguni falls under this category and is renowned for its slightly sour and elastic texture, often compared to Mozzarella but with a more pronounced tanginess.
Stretched-Curd Cheeses
Stretched-Curd Cheeses include the Georgian Sulguni, which is similar in production to Italian Mozzarella. Georgian artisans use a stretch-curd method to create Sulguni's signature elasticity. Additionally, Tenili cheese is another stretched-curd variety, known for its long, thread-like strands produced through an arduous stretching process. This cheese is often served in intricate braided forms and showcases the artisanal prowess of Georgian cheesemakers.
Cheesemaking Process
Artisan cheesemaking in Georgia reflects a commitment to craft and local food traditions. Highlighting the use of fresh, often raw milk, these small batch producers adopt hands-on techniques to create distinctive and high-quality cheeses.
Milk Selection
The first step in the cheesemaking process is the selection of milk, which is primarily sourced from local farms. Georgia cheese artisans prefer raw milk for its full flavor profile and the unique terroir it imparts to the cheese. The choice of milk—cow, goat, or sheep—affects the final flavor and texture of the cheese.
Culturing and Coagulation
Artisans introduce specific cultures to the milk to develop flavor and assist in coagulation. The culturing process varies depending on the type of cheese being made. Coagulation is then induced using rennet, turning the milk into a custard-like solid called curd, while the liquid portion is known as whey.
Curds Processing and Molding
Once coagulated, the curd is cut, stirred, and sometimes cooked, which helps in whey expulsion and curd firming. The small batch approach allows for careful handling, ensuring the curd develops the desired moisture and texture. The curds are then placed into molds to shape the cheese, with excess whey being drained away.
Aging and Ripening
The aging process is crucial for developing the cheese's flavor and character. This can range from a few weeks to several years. Artisan cheeses are aged under controlled conditions, where temperature and humidity are carefully managed to promote the growth of rinds and cultures specific to each cheese's profile.
Georgia's Cheese Regions
Georgia boasts a rich tapestry of regions, each contributing unique cheese varieties to the country's culinary heritage. The diverse terrain and climate across these areas support distinct cheese-making practices.
Adjara
In the coastal region of Adjara, one finds cheeses that reflect the area's humid climate and lush pasturage. Farmstead cheeses here convey a freshness that is derived from the local cows' diet, which is rich in the diverse flora of the region.
Imereti
Imereti is known for its dairy traditions that emphasize purity and simplicity. With a mild climate and fertile lands, it provides ideal conditions for producing cheeses with subtle flavors. The region celebrates a pastoral charm that translates into its cheese-making.
Samegrelo
Samegrelo, to the west, is the home of Sulguni, a famed Georgian cheese. Cheesemakers in this region utilize time-honored techniques to create this semi-hard, brined cheese known for its slightly sour taste and elastic texture—hallmarks of the area's culinary identity.
Racha
Moving northwards to Racha, the region contributes with its unique varieties that embody the rugged, mountainous terrain. The cheeses from Racha are typically bold, echoing the character of this less-traveled area of Georgia.
Pairing Georgian Cheese with Wine
Georgia, known for its rich culinary heritage, offers a variety of artisan cheeses that beautifully complement local wines. The art of pairing these delicacies lies in balancing flavors and textures to enhance the dining experience, especially when featuring the iconic Georgian dish, Khachapuri.
Sulguni, a semi-hard, brine cheese, carries a tangy flavor profile which matches well with acidic wines. Its elastic texture makes it a versatile component in many Georgian dishes, including Khachapuri. For an optimal pairing, try Sulguni with a crisp Georgian white wine, such as Rkatsiteli.
The soft and supple Imeretian cheese is another popular choice. It is traditionally used in Khachapuri, imparting a creamy consistency to the dish. Light-bodied white wines complement the mild characteristics of Imeretian cheese. One may opt for a Chinuri to accompany this cheese for a harmonious blend.
Cheese Type Wine Pairing Notes Sulguni Rkatsiteli, Chinuri Semi-hard, tangy, elastic texture Imeretian Chinuri, Tsinandali Soft, creamy, mild taste
Georgian wines have a unique profile that can elevate the cheese's flavors. A general guideline is to match the intensity of the cheese with the wine. Full-bodied wines are more suited to robust cheeses, whereas lighter wines should be paired with delicately flavored cheeses.
One should not underestimate the regional approach to pairing, where Georgian wines are intrinsically linked to local cheeses, creating an authentic tasting experience. This approach not only exemplifies the flavors but also honors the tradition and craftsmanship of Georgian viticulture and cheesemaking.
Artisan Cheese Shops in Georgia
Georgia's culinary landscape offers a delightful array of artisan cheese shops, spotlighting local cheese artisans. These shops not only serve as marketplaces but also celebrate the rich, diverse flavors inherent to the region's dairy craftsmanship.
Thomasville's Sweet Grass Dairy
In Thomasville, Sweet Grass Dairy stands out as a point of pride for the local community, renowned for its craft beers, wines, and, importantly, its artisanal cheeses. The business is rooted in a commitment to sustainable farming and premium quality, with cheeses that reflect the terroir of South Georgia.
Carrollton Local Markets
Carrollton's local markets are home to shops like Udderly Cool Creamery, where the craft of cheesemaking is as pure as it gets. Jeff Green and his wife Karen have been handcrafting cheese since 2010, ensuring that every wheel is aged to perfection in separate, climate-controlled rooms.
Sandy Springs Specialty Stores
Sandy Springs offers specialty stores that cater to both casual cheese lovers and gourmands alike. Shops in this area boast a wide selection of artisanal cheeses, with a focus on supporting local producers and providing an exceptional variety of flavors to satisfy any palate.
Touring Georgia's Cheese Farms
Georgia's landscape offers a delightful journey for cheese lovers eager to explore the state's burgeoning farmstead cheese movement. One can initiate their tour at Sweet Grass Dairy Cheese Shop located on 123 S Broad St, Thomasville, GA. This shop not only sells craft beers and wines, but also a variety of artisanal cheeses, providing an authentic tasting experience.
Another destination worth visiting is The Cheese Plant at Hidden Creek Farm. They have a primary location at the Union County Farmers Market on 290 Farmers Mkt Way, Blairsville, GA. Visitors are welcome every Saturday from June through October and on the first Saturday in December, offering an opportunity to witness cheese production alongside the market's vibrant atmosphere.
For those particularly interested in farmstead cheeses, Nature's Harmony Farm in Elberton is a must-visit spot. They've been recognized for their small batch, award-winning cheddar and Alpine cheeses, marking their place in Georgia's cheese tapestry.
Prospective visitors should also consider Many Fold Farm, known for their sustainable approach and grass-fed sheep farm. Their passion for land preservation and cheese quality reflects in their diverse cheese varieties, which may inspire enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of artisan cheesemaking in Georgia.
Below is a quick guide to a few notable cheese farms in Georgia:
Cheese Farm Location Highlight Sweet Grass Dairy Cheese Shop Thomasville, GA Artisanal cheeses, wine, and beer Hidden Creek Farm Blairsville, GA Available at local farmers market Nature's Harmony Farm Elberton, GA Award-winning farmstead cheeses Many Fold Farm Chattahoochee Hills, GA Grass-fed sheep and sustainable practices
Each location offers its unique charm and promises visitors an educational and flavorful experience.
Supporting Georgia's Artisan Cheese Industry
Georgia's burgeoning artisan cheese scene is an avenue for supporting local economy and sustainable agriculture. When individuals choose to purchase cheese from Georgia-based creameries, they not only indulge in culinary excellence but also contribute to small farms dedicated to ethical animal treatment and land stewardship.
The state boasts a variety of creameries, such as Nature's Harmony Farm in Elberton, which gained acclaim for its cheddar and Alpine cheeses. These creameries flourish by focusing on high-quality, grass-based milk and crafting cheeses that often reflect old-world styles. By opting for these local products, consumers enable these creameries to thrive and maintain their craft.
Buying Guide:
Local Markets: Best for fresh, farm-to-table products.
OnlyInYourState: Online resource for discovering local Georgian products.
Explore Georgia: Official travel site with information on local creameries.
Cheese Attributes:
Farmstead: Made with milk from the farm's own herd.
Awards: Many have won regional and international accolades.
To support Georgia's industry, consumers can turn to local markets or accredited websites like OnlyInYourState for recommendations. Additionally, affiliating with the Explore Georgia website, one can delve into the state's rich cheese variety. While neither the article nor its writer is an affiliate of Amazon Associate, it's worth mentioning that artisan cheeses from Georgia can sometimes be found on various online marketplaces, offering a convenient option for those not local to the area.
Supporting artisan cheese from Georgia is a delightful way to fuse gastronomic pleasure with a commitment to community and environmental integrity. These artisanal offerings from Georgia not only promote a richer local culture but also help sustain smaller farms and homesteads that are pivotal to the state's agrarian landscape.
