Utah Artisan Cheese

A Guide to the State’s Finest Cheesemakers

Utah stands as a noteworthy player in the emerging American artisanal cheese (how long does cheese last?) landscape. With a history rooted in family-operated dairy farms, Utah has cultivated a diverse cheese-making industry that champions both tradition and innovation. Among the 183 dairy farms present in the state, the majority remain family-owned and operated, ensuring a personal touch in every cheese (What wine goes well with cheese?) wheel produced. From the smoky notes of parmesan-style hard cow's milk cheeses (What wine goes well with cow's milk cheeses?) to the smooth textures of creamy raw goat chèvre, Utah's artisans are creating flavors that reflect the unique terroir of their region.

The commitment to crafting high-quality artisan cheese in Utah is evident through the careful selection of ingredients and the adherence to time-honored methods. Dairy producers in the state take pride in using the finest milk from their herds, which include breeds like Brown Swiss cows, known for their rich, high-fat milk ideal for cheese-making. Cheese enthusiasts can explore a range of flavors, including traditional European styles and new, innovative creations, all made locally with a dedication to natural processes and sustainability.

Artisan cheese from Utah is not just a culinary product; it's an embodiment of the state's heritage, community, and the passionate pursuit of excellence. Each cheese tells a story of meticulous craftsmanship and the cheese-makers’ efforts to connect consumers with the authentic tastes of the region. Whether it's a raw milk cheese with a natural rind or a handmade cheddar infused with local flavors, Utah's cheese offerings invite consumers to experience the robust and nuanced profiles that make up the state's cheese culture.

The History of Utah Artisan Cheese

Utah's artisan cheese industry, like its impressive landscapes, is deeply carved with a rich history. This region, known for a strong agricultural tradition, has cheese-making roots that cradle the essence of family and dedication to craft.

Drake Family Farms stands as a testament to this tradition. Since 1880, six generations have sustained their farming legacy in West Jordan. Not only is it a family endeavor, but the farm is recognized as a "Utah Century Farm," a prestigious designation reflecting over a century of continuous agricultural contribution.

Cache Valley carries its own storied past with dairy and cheese production. The valley is synonymous with a diverse array of cheese flavors crafted by passionate artisans. Rockhill Cheese, among others, adds layers to the local cheese narrative with varieties like Boo Boo Baby Swiss and Peppercorn Gouda, marking the valley's impact on Utah's cheese-making.

Beehive Cheese is another key player, renowned for its rubbed, flavored cheeses. They exemplify the innovative spirit prevalent amongst Utah's cheese producers, experimenting with flavors to create unique offerings.

These artisanal producers often converge at farmers markets, showcasing their products. Here, the community taste-tests the richness of flavors derived from decades, even centuries of refinement in cheese crafting. It is through these markets that Utah artisan cheese connects with the public, offering a tangible slice of the state's dairy culture and history.

Utah's Notable Cheese Makers

Utah boasts a rich tapestry of artisan cheesemakers, each contributing unique flavors and traditions to the state's culinary scene. This selection encapsulates a commitment to quality and a passion for crafting exceptional cheeses ranging from classic cheddars to innovative flavored varieties.

Beehive Cheese

Beehive Cheese is renowned for its rubbed rind cheeses, such as the award-winning Promontory, which is known for its creamy texture and variety of flavored rinds. Each cheese reflects the distinct local flair and quality that Beehive Cheese stands for.

Heber Valley Artisan Cheese

A family-operated dairy, Heber Valley Artisan Cheese strives for excellence with its cheese curds and handcrafted cheeses. Their offerings are a testament to their dairy roots and the rich flavors of the Heber Valley region.

Rockhill Creamery

Located in Northern Utah, Rockhill Creamery produces artisan cheeses from raw milk. Their commitment to traditional methods results in a selection of fine cheeses, including Alpine-style options that cheese connoisseurs appreciate.

Gossner Foods

Gossner Foods is a key player in the production of Swiss cheese. Founded by Edwin Gossner, the company has been producing high-quality Swiss and cheddar cheeses for over 50 years, contributing significantly to the Utah cheese scene.

Gold Creek Farms

Artisan cheesemaking reaches new heights with Gold Creek Farms. Their handmade farmhouse gouda and cheddar are crafted with a meticulous touch, ensuring a premium product that resonates with cheese lovers.

Caputo's Market and Deli

At the helm of Caputo's Market and Deli is Matt Caputo, a certified cheese professional. The market is a treasure trove for cheese enthusiasts, featuring a unique cheese cave and an impressive selection handled by expert affineurs.

Mesa Farm Market

Randy Ramsley of Mesa Farm Market is a purveyor of fine, small-batch cheeses. This establishment is a hub for cheese tasting, offering a nuanced experience for those looking to explore Utah's artisanal cheese offerings.

Western Dairy Center at Utah State University

The Western Dairy Center at Utah State University is a pillar of cheese education. Focused on the science behind cheese making, the center nurtures both dairy cows and the next generation of cheesemakers, fostering growth in the industry.

Popular Varieties of Utah Artisan Cheese

Utah offers a rich diversity of artisan cheeses, each with a distinct taste, texture, and craftsmanship. Connoisseurs and casual consumers alike can explore a variety of local specialties, from award-winning cheddars to uniquely flavored options.

Cheddar Varieties

Cheddar in Utah takes a prominent spot, with Promontory Cheddar standing out for its buttery, full-bodied flavor and smooth texture. Some cheddars have unique spins like the Barely Buzzed, which is hand-rubbed with espresso and lavender, imparting a distinctive earthy note.

Swiss and Emmental

Swiss cheese, recognized for its characteristic eyes or holes, and Emmental come with a sweet and somewhat nutty flavor. Utah’s artisans craft versions that reflect the traditional Alpine methods, boasting both authenticity and a rich taste profile.

Gouda Selections

Gouda is another favorite, ranging from young and mild to aged and complex. Varieties like the Farmhouse Gouda offer a creamy texture and rich flavors, while the Dark Canyon Edam reflects a slightly different take on the traditional Gouda technique.

Unique Flavored Cheeses

Utah's cheesemakers are not shy about experimenting with bold flavors. Cheeses such as Red Rock feature a visually striking presence with its bright red wax rind and a creamy layer with a hint of spice, creating a unique combination of flavors that is both balanced and bold.

Curds and Fresh Cheeses

For those preferring a less aged option, Utah provides plenty of fresh choices. Creamy cheese curds offer a delightful squeak upon first bite, and versatile mozzarella finds its place in both culinary creations and as a standalone treat. Goat cheese also features here, showcasing a range of delicate flavors preferred by many cheese enthusiasts.

Cheesemaking Processes in Utah

In Utah, the cheesemaking process is a thoughtful blend of traditional methods and local influences that contribute significantly to the cheese's distinct character.

Artisanal Techniques

Utah's artisan cheesemakers embrace handcrafted techniques, ensuring each step from curdling to curing is carefully managed to influence the final flavor profile of the cheese. Stainless steel tools and equipment are commonly used in kitchens where these artisan cheeses are produced—elements essential for precise and consistent cheesemaking.

Local Ingredients and Terroir

Utah's terroir, a French term meaning the complete natural environment in which a particular cheese is produced, including factors like climate, soil, and topography, plays a crucial role in the cheesemaking process. Local ingredients, particularly the varieties of local milk such as cow's, sheep's, and goat milk, impart unique flavors that echo the region’s diverse environment, from its mountainous landscapes to its fertile valleys.

Raw Milk Cheeses

Some Utah cheesemakers opt for using raw milk—milk that has not been pasteurized—to create cheeses that boast a complexity of flavor deeply rooted in the local terroir. The use of raw milk, with its natural flora, contributes positively to the cheese's depth of taste and texture, aligning with traditions that date back to ancestral cheese crafting.

Aging and Affinage

The aging process, known as 'affinage', takes place in dedicated cheese caves where cheeses are nurtured until they reach optimum maturity. An affineur, or cheese ager, attentively controls the humidity, temperature, and turning of the cheeses, guiding the development of their flavor and texture. This phase is where cheeses acquire their distinctive profiles, as the aging cave environment shapes their nuances.

Artisan cheese production in Utah reflects the balance between age-old traditions and localized flair, resulting in cheeses with authentic, unparalleled flavors.

Pairings and Culinary Uses

(What wine goes well with cured meats?)In Utah, the art of pairing artisan cheeses with a diverse range of foods and wines is a testament to their culinary versatility. The section explores specific ways in which the spectrum of Utah's artisan cheeses enhance a variety of dishes and settings.

Artisan Cheese on the Menu

Utah's artisan cheeses find their way into restaurants ranging from the local Pallet Bistro to new culinary ventures. Chefs incorporate these cheeses into their dishes, taking advantage of the rich flavors to elevate items such as grilled bread with melty cheese, or a simple yet sophisticated cheese plate. The flavor profiles of these cheeses are carefully considered to complement both the main ingredients and the overall theme of the menu.

Accompaniments and Charcuterie

A cheese tasting is truly complete when paired with complementary accompaniments. Artisan cheeses from Utah pair well with:

• Sweet elements: such as honey or craft chocolate

• Crunchy counterparts: like artisanal crackers

• Acidic components: such as pickles or chutney

• Charcuterie (What wine goes well with charcuterie?): including local cured meats (What wine goes well with cured meats?)

Local artisans often collaborate to create a harmonious balance on the palate, providing a tapestry of tastes and textures that enhance the cheese tasting experience.

From Casual to Fine Dining

Whether included on a casual cocktail menu or as part of an elaborate cheese course in fine dining, Utah's artisan cheeses handle a range of culinary contexts with finesse. They can add complexity to a casual grilled cheese or sophistication to a cheese soufflé. On a fine-dining menu, these cheeses might be paired with a vintage wine, offering nuanced flavor combinations that speak to a well-crafted dining experience.

Sustainability and Community Involvement

The Utah artisan cheese scene emphasizes sustainability and community engagement, with a focus on eco-friendly farm practices, local markets, and education.

Farm Practices and Sustainability

Local dairy farms in Utah build the foundation for the artisan cheese industry by prioritizing sustainable practices. This includes the careful management of land and water resources to promote ecological balance and the welfare of dairy cows. Producers like Rockhill Cheese Creamery source milk from local farms such as Cache Meadow Creamery, ensuring a smaller carbon footprint and fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Local Farmers Markets and Events

Farmers markets serve as vibrant hubs where Utah's artisan cheese producers, such as Beehive Cheese and Heber Valley Artisan Cheese, showcase their handmade products. These events support the local economy and provide a platform for cheese makers to interact directly with customers through cheese tastings and sales. Additionally, they foster relationships between farmers, cheese makers, and consumers, reinforcing community ties.

Educational Tours and Workshops

Utah State University contributes to the education aspect by hosting workshops and offering courses on cheese making, thereby promoting cheese appreciation and expertise in the craft. Artisan cheese producers often extend this knowledge through farm tours and cheese-making workshops. These activities give the public a direct look at the cheese production process and emphasize the importance of sustainability in dairy farming and artisanal food production.

Buying Utah Artisan Cheese

Purchasing artisan cheese in Utah can be seamlessly accomplished through various channels, offering options for both local enthusiasts and distant aficionados who appreciate the state’s cheese-making craftsmanship.

Local Stores and Farm Shops

Many Utah artisan cheese producers maintain self-serve farm shops where consumers can purchase products directly from the source. Drake Family Farms, for instance, operates a cash-only market at 1856 Drake Ln, West Jordan, UT 84084, where customers can explore a legacy of cheese-making that dates back to 1880. Additionally, specialty outlets like Caputo’s Markets across the state stock an extensive range of local artisan cheeses.

• Drake Family Farms: Contact at (801) 255-6455 for store hours.

• Caputo’s Market: Locations across Utah with variety of local cheeses.

Online Orders and Shipping

Artisan cheese lovers not located in Utah can still enjoy these gourmet products through online orders. For example, Gold Creek Farms offers an online shop with free shipping on orders over $100. Their handcrafted cheeses, made from Brown Swiss cows' milk, exemplify the quality and natural production methods Utah is known for. Most artisanal producers have a website where customers can place orders and view a selection of cheeses.

• Gold Creek Farms: Online shop with free shipping over $100.

• Online Presence: Most farms feature an online ordering system on their websites.

Marketing and Social Media Presence

The marketing of Utah’s artisan cheese is amplified by a robust social media presence, where producers share stories, product launches, and connect with their communities. Social media platforms are often used to broadcast information about local farmers markets, store offerings, and updates related to artisan cheese-related events. Prospective buyers are encouraged to contact the cheese makers directly through these channels for the most current information.

• Social Media: Platforms utilized for updates and customer engagement.

• Contact Information: Accessible via websites and social media for inquiries.

Utah Cheese Awards and Recognition

Recognition by institutions like the American Cheese Society speaks volumes about the quality of Utah's artisan cheeses. Beehive Cheese has secured over 130 major awards in 18 years, contributing to Utah's prominence in the artisan cheese scene. Attaining awards from reputable organizations helps validate the excellence of the state's cheese, and these accolades are often proudly mentioned on producers' websites and used in marketing material.

• Beehive Cheese: Over 130 awards from various competitions.

• Utah Cheese Awards: Highlights notable achievements in cheese-making.

Contact Information

Artisan cheese lovers can directly engage with cheesemakers in Utah for inquiries, purchase details, and more. The following resources provide various points of contact, ensuring that information is readily accessible.

Cheesemaker Directories

Artisanal cheese producers in Utah can be found through dedicated directories. These directories list the cheesemakers with their physical address, phone number, and often an email contact. For example:

• Drake Family Farms

  • Address: 1856 Drake Ln, West Jordan, UT 84084

  • Phone: (801) 255-6455

  • Website: Drake Family Farms

• Gold Creek Farms

  • Email: Available via their website contact form

  • Shopping: Shop Online at Gold Creek Farms

• Park City Creamery

  • Address: 1200 W Lori Ln, Unit A-3, Heber City, UT

  • Phone: (435) 333-8144

Social Media Channels

While official websites are key resources for detailed information, social media platforms offer updated news and community interactions.

• Beehive Cheese

  • Facebook: Beehive Cheese

  • Instagram: @beehivecheese

• Rockhill Creamery

  • Facebook: Search "Rockhill Creamery" in Facebook

Customer Service and Inquiries

For specific questions, most cheesemakers have a team ready to assist. Customer service can be reached through:

• Phone: Contact numbers provided in the directories can be used for queries.

• Email: Direct email addresses or contact forms on websites are avenues for written communication.

• Contact Pages: Many have a 'Contact' section on their websites for direct communication.

The Artisan Cheese Community

Utah’s artisan cheese community is a thriving sector, characterized by a variety of cheesemakers who bring local flavors and unique cheese profiles to life. Through educational initiatives and community events, the state’s cheese industry promotes a deeper understanding and appreciation of cheese craftsmanship.

Cheesemakers and Their Stories

In Utah, artisan cheesemakers such as the creators behind Heber Valley Artisan Cheese and Gold Creek Farms have developed reputations for high-quality, handcrafted cheeses. Pat Ford, a notable figure in the community, transitioned from corporate life to cheesemaking, co-founding Beehive Cheese Co. This career shift echoes a broader narrative where passion for artisanal foods drives individuals to craft products that celebrate local tastes and traditions.

• Heber Valley Artisan Cheese: Operated by the Kohler family, offers educational tours, highlighting the cheesemaking process.

• Gold Creek Farms: Known for their handcrafted cheeses and commitment to all-natural ingredients.

• Beehive Cheese Co.: Founded by Tim Welsh and his brother-in-law, Pat Ford; created award-winning cheeses like Barely Buzzed.

Dairy Education and Cheese Certification

Education plays a pivotal role in the development and maintenance of a vibrant artisan cheese community in Utah. To bolster this, individuals such as Britton Welsh have pursued formal certification to become a Certified Cheese Professional (CCP), ensuring that the knowledge of cheese varieties, care, and service is rooted in expert understanding.

• Certified Cheese Professional (CCP): A formal certification that requires comprehensive knowledge of cheese handling and service.

• Cheese Education: Offered by artisan cheesemakers and specialty shops, it includes workshops and pairing classes.

Artisan Cheese Advocacy and Events

The Utah cheesemaking community actively participates in events and advocacy, fostering a strong culture around artisan products. These gatherings not only spotlight local producers but also serve as an interactive platform for both novices and aficionados to share their love for the craft.

• Annual Events: Events such as cheese festivals and farmers' markets showcase the variety of local cheese offerings.

• Advocacy: Artisan cheesemakers collaborate to promote the artisan cheese industry within the state.

Through their stories, commitment to education, and advocacy efforts, Utah’s artisan cheesemakers reinforce the significance of this culinary art form, inviting locals and visitors to indulge in the state’s rich cheese-making heritage.