Maine Artisan Cheese
A Guide to the State's Finest Cheesemakers
Maine's artisan cheese (how long does cheese last?) scene is a vibrant and growing element of the state's local food movement, reflecting a deep commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Among the picturesque rolling hills and rugged coastline, a community of dedicated cheesemakers produces a wide array of cheese, using traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations. They utilize the rich, local milk produced by Maine's cows and goats to create an assortment of cheeses, such as cheese curds, bloomy rind cheeses like Camembert and Brie, and aged varieties including Cheddar and Provolone.
Artisanal cheese production in Maine is an intimate process, where the connection between the land, animals, and final product is paramount. The cheesemakers take pride in their work, ensuring each cheese showcases the distinct flavors of the region. Visitors have the unique opportunity to not only taste these cheeses but also engage with the producers at farm stores, local markets, and during special events like the Maine Cheese Festival and Open Creamery Day. These experiences offer a glimpse into the passion and technique behind Maine's gourmet cheeses.
In recent years, Maine cheeses have begun to draw national attention, carving out a niche for the state in America's artisanal food tapestry. From soft, fresh chèvre to robust, aged goat cheeses (What wine goes well with goat cheeses?), the versatility and quality of Maine's cheese are indicative of the state's evolving food culture. With an emphasis on sustainability and a hands-on approach, Maine's cheesemakers are creating products that not only resonate with the local community but also enchant cheese enthusiasts from beyond the state's borders.
History of Maine Artisan Cheese
Maine's journey with artisan cheese is entwined with the state’s dedication to family farms and traditional methods. Since the establishment of the Maine Cheese Guild in 1999, local cheese production has seen a significant transformation. The Guild’s establishment signified the beginning of a more united and concerted effort to elevate the state's cheese-making craft.
Family farms across Maine have a legacy of producing a variety of quality cheeses, leveraging the rich, local dairy produced by these farms. These range from creamy chevre to robust cheddars, reflective of the region's terroir and the expertise of its cheese artisans.
Key Milestones
1999: Maine Cheese Guild formation.
2000s: Rapid growth in member artisans.
2017: Increase in Maine cheese recognition and awards.
The Maine Cheese Guild plays a fundamental role in mentoring new cheesemakers, and it established a platform for shared learning and skill enhancement. This is evident in the Guild's efforts to bring internationally acclaimed cheesemakers to Maine to share their knowledge, thereby enriching the skill set within the local community.
Educational Offerings:
Cheese-making workshops.
Mentorship programs for new cheesemakers.
Networking events to facilitate knowledge exchange.
As a result, Maine artisan cheese has developed a distinct identity, appreciated for its connection to the land and to the traditions of the small-scale purveyors who craft it. This respect for craft and community continues to drive the success and growth of artisan cheese in Maine. The state’s commitment to quality and authenticity is a touchstone of Maine's artisanal food movement, making Maine cheeses a proud representation of local expertise and agricultural heritage.
Types of Maine Artisan Cheese
Maine's diverse climate and rich agricultural history provide the perfect setting for producing a variety of artisan cheeses. From the sharp tang of aged cheddar to the creamy delicacy of chevre, each cheese reflects the unique characteristics of local milk and the cheesemaker's craft.
Cheddar
Cheddar cheese from Maine often displays a rich, sharp flavor with a firm texture that becomes crumbly as it ages. Using milk from Jersey and Guernsey cows, Maine cheesemakers create cheddar that distinguishes itself with subtle grassy tones, reflective of the local terroir.
Chevre
Chevre, a soft cheese made from goat's milk, holds a special place in Maine's cheese repertoire. Maine's cheesemakers produce chevre that is soft and spreadable with a distinct, tart flavor. It is frequently infused with an array of local herbs, edible flowers, or even local berries, showcasing the versatility of this cheese.
Aged Cheese
Artisan aged cheeses in Maine encompass a variety of styles, each undergoing a careful aging process to enhance its unique flavor profile. These cheeses can range from nutty and buttery to pungent and complex, offering cheese aficionados a plethora of textures and tastes influenced by specific aging techniques and times.
Feta
Maine's feta cheese is typically crafted from goat's or sheep's milk and is known for its crumbly texture and tangy taste. This brined curd cheese carries a slightly salty bite and is perfect for sprinkling over salads or incorporating into Mediterranean dishes.
Ricotta
Ricotta produced in Maine utilizes the leftover whey from other cheese-making processes, embodying a commitment to sustainability. This creamy cheese has a mild, slightly sweet flavor, making it a favorite for both savory recipes and sweet desserts like cannoli or cheesecake.
Maine Cheese Farming Practices
Maine's cheese farming is deeply rooted in family-owned dairy farms, emphasizing sustainable agriculture and careful animal husbandry. These practices involve meticulous care for various dairy animals, including goats, sheep, and cows, ensuring quality milk production for artisanal cheese.
Family Farming
Many cheesemakers in Maine operate on family-owned farms, where generations continue the tradition of cheese-making. These small-scale operations often focus on producing farmstead cheeses, reflecting the unique terroir of their specific region. Family farms tend to manage herds of dairy cows, such as the butterfat-rich Jersey cows, and various breeds of goats and sheep like Saanen goats, which are known for their high-quality milk.
Sustainable Agriculture
Sustainable practices are a cornerstone within Maine's cheese farming. Farms often implement rotational grazing, which supports soil health and pasture regeneration. They also engage in environmentally conscious management of resources, such as water and energy, to minimize their ecological footprint. Many of these farms source milk solely from local dairies, reinforcing the local food ecosystem.
Rotational Grazing: Promotes soil health
Local Sourcing: Supports Maine's dairies
Animal Husbandry
Animal health and welfare are paramount in producing premium quality milk for cheesemaking. Farmers devote significant attention to nutrition, living conditions, and overall care. They typically raise a variety of dairy animals, including goats, sheep, and cows. They ensure that these animals have access to quality feed, clean water, and ample space, which is vital for the welfare of the animals and the quality of the cheese produced.
Goats: Often include breeds like Saanen
Cows: Jersey cows are prevalent for their rich milk
Sheep: Valued for distinctive milk flavors
In essence, the practices of Maine's artisan cheese farmers reflect a commitment to quality, sustainability, and the well-being of their dairy animals.
Cheesemaking Techniques
In the state of Maine, artisan cheesemaking is characterized by a deep commitment to quality and tradition. The techniques used by local cheesemakers are deliberate and precise, ensuring that each cheese reflects the unique properties of the region’s dairy.
Handcrafting Methods
Cheesemakers in Maine employ handcrafting techniques that date back centuries. They meticulously handle the curds, often churning, cutting, and shaping them by hand. This labor-intensive approach is pivotal to the texture and flavor nuances artisanal cheeses are known for. The process can include:
Churning: Gentle stirring that helps develop the cheese's body
Cutting: Size of curds varies depending on the cheese type
Shaping: Hand-formed into wheels or blocks
Small Batch Production
Maine's artisan cheesemakers prioritize quality over quantity, producing cheese in small batches. This allows for acute attention to detail at each step of the cheesemaking process:
Milk Sourcing: Sourced from local farms to maintain freshness and regional character
Batch Size: Limited quantity to preserve control and consistency
Aging and Curing
The last critical techniques in the cheesemaking process involve aging and curing. Cheesemakers carefully control the environment in which the cheese matures to develop a robust flavor profile:
Temperature: Kept consistent to avoid inhibiting flavor development
Humidity: Monitored to ensure proper moisture content in the cheese
Time: Some cheeses age for months or even years to achieve the desired taste and texture
Maine Cheese Producers
Maine is renowned for its variety of artisan cheese producers, each offering unique specialties that reflect the state's rich dairy heritage. The producers combine traditional techniques and local ingredients, presenting a true taste of Maine through their cheeses.
Springdale Farm
Springdale Farm is distinguished for its commitment to quality and tradition. They craft a selection of cheeses that embody the flavors of their local terroir, ensuring each product they offer is a testament to their dedication to cheese-making excellence.
Crooked Face Creamery
Crooked Face Creamery stands out for its rich and creamy cheeses that come from well-nurtured herds. With a focus on both traditional and innovative cheeses, this creamery prides itself on the attention to detail that can be tasted in every bite.
Fuzzy Udder Creamery
At Fuzzy Udder Creamery, the passion for artisan cheese is evident in their diverse array of products. They specialize in creating soft and hard cheeses, all made from the milk of happy, healthy animals raised on their scenic Maine farm.
Kennebec Cheesery
Kennebec Cheesery is recognized for its variety of handcrafted cheeses. Utilizing milk from local herds, they create cheeses with distinct and memorable flavors, making them a favorite among both locals and visitors to the area.
In addition to the highlighted creameries, Maine boasts other notable establishments like Three Charm Farm, Lakin’s Gorges Cheese at East Forty Farm, and Koons Farm, all contributing to the state's reputation for fine artisan cheese.
Cheese Pairings and Recipes
Maine's artisan cheeses boast unique flavors that are elevated when expertly paired with the right wine or incorporated into recipes using locally-sourced ingredients.
Wine Pairings
Pairing cheese with wine is an art that can bring out the subtleties of both. For a rich, creamy cheese from Maine's cheesemakers, one might choose a crisp, acidic white wine to cut through the fat. Conversely, a robust blue cheese pairs well with a sweet dessert wine, creating a harmonious balance on the palate. A table to consider:
Cheese Type Suggested Wine Pairing Creamy, Soft Cheeses (What wine goes well with soft cheeses?) Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay Aged, Hard Cheeses Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel Blue Cheeses (What wine goes well with blue cheeses?) Port or Ice Wine
Local Ingredients
Artisan cheese recipes thrive on local ingredients that reflect Maine's terroir. For a tasty cheeseboard, one can select cheeses accompanied by local honey, fresh fruit, or preserves. Many Maine cheese recipes involve ingredients like wild blueberries or apples, which complement the cheese's richness with a burst of natural sweetness.
Culinary Creations
In culinary creations, the texture and flavor profile of cheese can transform a dish. Simple recipes, such as a cheese soufflé, use the robust flavors of aged cheddar to add depth. A delicate chevre can be gently warmed and drizzled with local honey, creating a perfect blend of tangy and sweet notes. Cooking with these cheeses is not only about the taste but also about celebrating Maine's artisanal craft.
Recipe Key Ingredients Cheese Used Cheese Soufflé Eggs, Butter, Flour, Milk Aged Cheddar Chevre with Honey Chevre, Local Honey, Fresh Thyme Soft Goat Cheese Blueberry Cheese Tart Blueberries, Lemon Zest, Cream Cheese Cream Cheese
By carefully considering the pairings and thoughtfully integrating local ingredients, these culinary creations accentuate the distinct qualities of Maine's artisan cheeses.
Maine Cheese in the Community
Maine's passion for artisan cheese spreads through community events, organized initiatives, and educational programs that engage both residents and visitors, fostering a culture that appreciates local cheese-making craftsmanship.
Maine Cheese Festival
Each fall, the Maine Cheese Guild hosts the Maine Cheese Festival, an event that celebrates the variety and quality of cheeses produced across the state. The festival attracts thousands of attendees to Skowhegan, where cheese lovers can enjoy tastings, meet the cheesemakers, and participate in cheese-related activities.
Maine Cheese Guild Initiatives
The Maine Cheese Guild actively drives programs that support local cheesemakers and promote the artisan cheese community in Maine. These initiatives include:
Hands-on cheesemaking workshops provided by industry experts for educational and professional development.
Capercaillie Consulting, offering advice on all aspects of cheesemaking and dairy business operations.
Advocacy and networking opportunities to help cheesemakers navigate and succeed within the market.
Educational Outreach
Educational endeavors enhance knowledge and appreciation for Maine's cheese industry. The Midcoast Cheese Trail and Maine Cheese Trail serve as educational resources that allow individuals to explore local farms, learn about cheese production, and directly support small businesses. The trails encourage visitors to observe each farm's guidelines while offering a personal connection to the artisan cheese-making process.
Maine’s Place in the Cheese Market
Maine's dairy industry captures the spirit of handcraft and attention to detail, carving out a unique niche in the artisan cheese market. They produce a diverse range of cheeses that mirror the distinctive nature of Maine itself.
Artisan cheese in Maine isn't just a product; it's an experience. Cheese makers across the state dedicate themselves to their craft, fostering a sense of love and passion that is tangible in every bite. Many of the cheeses coming out of Maine are handmade, often in small batches that ensure quality and flavor.
Key Points about Maine Cheese:
Handcrafted: Cheesemakers invest personal care into each cheese, often using traditional methods.
Local Ingredients: Maine’s cheese artisans commonly use local, often organic, milk from cows, goats, and sheep.
Variety: Offerings range from soft cheeses like chevre to firm ones such as feta and aged cheddars.
Awards: Maine’s cheese has gained recognition, with some cheeses winning regional and national awards.
The State of Maine Cheese Company exemplifies the region's commitment to cheese making, offering farmstead, artisan cheeses that have become a staple in the local market. Events like the Maine Cheese Festival and Open Creamery Day, orchestrated by the Maine Cheese Guild, provide a platform for cheesemakers to showcase their products and cheese-lovers to indulge in the state’s dairy delights.
Maine’s place in the cheese market is not only about the final product but also about the sustainable and community-oriented practices that make its production possible. It's about the story each cheese tells — a story of Maine's lush pastures, dedicated farmers, and a rich tradition of cheese-making excellence.
Tourism and Cheese Trails
Maine offers a delightful experience for cheese aficionados through its various farms and cheese trails which showcase the state’s rich artisanal cheese culture.
Visiting Maine Farms
Waldoboro, Whitefield, and Sidney stand out as pivotal stops on Maine's cheese trail, offering visitors firsthand insights into the cheese-making process. Each farm adheres to specific visitation guidelines, including observing masking and distancing measures where applicable.
Five Islands Farm in Georgetown provides a charming setting where one can enjoy locally made cheeses alongside scenic views. It's essential for tourists to check farm operating hours and any possible visitor requirements to ensure a smooth experience.
Tasting Tours
The MidCoast Cheese Trail encompasses a selection of Maine’s small-batch cheesemakers, all within a reasonable distance from each other. Here's a guide to some key locations:
Brunswick: Known for its college-town vibrancy, it boasts cafes and stores where Maine’s cheeses are readily available.
Scarborough: Home to The Cheese Iron, a boutique that specializes in curated selections of artisanal cheeses, perfect for the discerning palate.
Georgetown and Waldoboro not only offer picturesque settings but also an opportunity to taste exceptional local cheeses. Visitors are encouraged to partake in these tasting tours, which often include samples and are sometimes guided by the artisans themselves.
Innovations in Maine Cheese
Maine has become a hotspot for innovative artisan cheese production. Artisans throughout the state have embraced both traditional and novel methods to expand their offerings and appeal to a niche market searching for distinct flavors and sustainable practices.
One area of innovation includes the utilization of water buffalo milk, which is not commonly found in the United States. Water buffalo milk provides a richer, creamier base for cheeses, differentiating them from those made with cow or goat milk. The use of this milk type not only adds a unique taste profile to the cheese but also expands the variety of cheese products available in Maine.
In addition to exploring different milk sources, Maine cheese makers are also incorporating local flavors into their products. For instance, cranberry-infused cheeses have emerged, providing a tart counterbalance to the rich creaminess of the cheese. This creative inclusion of local fruit not only showcases the state's agricultural diversity but also adds a uniquely Maine twist to the cheese.
Cheesemakers are also focused on sustainability and supporting local economies. Maine cheese operations often source their milk from nearby dairies, bolstering local agriculture and ensuring fresh, high-quality ingredients. As these cheesemakers continue to explore new approaches and ingredients, their businesses reflect a blend of ecological mindfulness and gastronomic innovation.
This focus on sustainability extends to marketing strategies, where Maine's cheese artisans share their stories and practices, connecting with consumers on a level beyond the sensory appeal of their products. They use:
Workshops to educate and engage with the community
Sustainability practices in business operations
Local collaborations to strengthen the cheese-making industry in Maine
These efforts position Maine at the forefront of artisan cheesemaking, showcasing both innovation and community engagement.
Purchasing and Supporting Local Cheeses
In Maine, the support of local cheesemakers is integral to sustaining the artisanal cheese industry. Consumers have several avenues to purchase and celebrate the state's rich dairy offerings, each contributing to the local economy.
Farmers’ Markets
At farmers’ markets, one can find a variety of Maine's artisanal cheeses ranging from fresh to aged varieties. These markets serve as a direct link between consumers and family farms, where the love for cheese craftsmanship is palpable. Shoppers not only savor quality products but also get to meet the makers like those from Appleton Creamery, sampling the rich heritage embedded in every wheel of cheese.
Specialty Stores
Specialty stores across Maine champion local cheesemaking by curating an extensive selection of handcrafted cheeses. Five Islands Farm, for instance, boasts a significant assortment of Maine cheeses, reflecting their support for the Maine Cheese Guild. These stores provide knowledgeable staff to guide consumers through the nuances of each regional cheese, ensuring customers’ palates are matched with the perfect product.
Online Retailers
For those who prefer the convenience of digital shopping, online retailers like Local Goods Gathered offer a platform to purchase Maine's artisanal cheeses. These e-commerce sites extend the reach of Maine's dairy artisans to cheese enthusiasts beyond the state borders. Customers can order curated cheese and charcuterie boxes with a simple click, bringing the essence of Maine's cheese community to their doorstep.
