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Secrets Of Wisconsin’s Cheese Caves

Published:

by Laurie Justice

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Have you ever wondered where Wisconsin's famous cheese gets its unique flavor? The answer lies deep underground in the state's cheese caves. These caves provide the perfect environment for aging cheese, giving it that distinct taste and texture. Imagine walking into a cool, dimly lit cave filled with rows of aging cheese wheels. The air is thick with the rich aroma of dairy. These caves aren't just natural wonders; they're crucial for creating some of the best cheese in the world. Ready to learn more about these hidden gems and how they contribute to Wisconsin's cheese legacy? Let's dive in!

The Hidden World of Wisconsin's Cheese Caves

Wisconsin, known as America's Dairyland, hides a fascinating secret beneath its rolling hills and lush pastures. Cheese caves, where some of the finest cheeses mature to perfection, are scattered across the state. These caves offer a unique glimpse into the art and science of cheesemaking. Let's explore some of the most intriguing cheese caves in Wisconsin.

1. Carr Valley Cheese

Carr Valley Cheese, a family-owned business since 1902, boasts a rich history and a variety of award-winning cheeses. Their cheese caves are a testament to their dedication to quality and tradition.

  • Location: La Valle, WI
  • Specialty: Aged Cheddar, Gouda, and Blue Cheese
  • Tours: Available by appointment
  • Fun Fact: Carr Valley has won more than 750 awards for their cheeses.

2. Hook's Cheese Company

Hook's Cheese Company, run by Tony and Julie Hook, has been crafting exceptional cheeses for over 45 years. Their cheese caves are where magic happens, transforming milk into mouthwatering masterpieces.

  • Location: Mineral Point, WI
  • Specialty: 15-Year Aged Cheddar, Blue Cheese
  • Tours: Limited, call ahead
  • Fun Fact: Their 15-Year Aged Cheddar is one of the oldest and most celebrated in the world.

3. Roth Cheese

Roth Cheese, nestled in the heart of Green County, combines Swiss cheesemaking traditions with Wisconsin's rich dairy heritage. Their cheese caves are a blend of old-world charm and modern innovation.

  • Location: Monroe, WI
  • Specialty: Grand Cru, Havarti, Gouda
  • Tours: Offered seasonally
  • Fun Fact: Roth Cheese's Grand Cru Surchoix was named the best cheese in the world in 2016.

4. Uplands Cheese Company

Uplands Cheese Company, located in the picturesque Driftless region, is renowned for its seasonal, grass-fed cheeses. Their cheese caves are integral to the aging process, ensuring each wheel reaches its full potential.

  • Location: Dodgeville, WI
  • Specialty: Pleasant Ridge Reserve, Rush Creek Reserve
  • Tours: By appointment only
  • Fun Fact: Pleasant Ridge Reserve has won more Best of Show awards at the American Cheese Society competition than any other cheese.

5. Bleu Mont Dairy

Bleu Mont Dairy, a small, artisanal cheesemaker, is known for its raw milk cheeses and sustainable practices. Their underground cheese cave, built into a hillside, provides the perfect environment for aging.

  • Location: Blue Mounds, WI
  • Specialty: Bandaged Cheddar, Alpine-style cheeses
  • Tours: By appointment
  • Fun Fact: The cave's natural temperature and humidity control create ideal conditions for cheese aging.

6. Sartori Cheese

Sartori Cheese, a fourth-generation family business, combines Italian heritage with Wisconsin's dairy excellence. Their cheese caves are where their award-winning cheeses develop their distinctive flavors.

  • Location: Plymouth, WI
  • Specialty: BellaVitano, Asiago, Parmesan
  • Tours: Not open to the public
  • Fun Fact: Sartori's BellaVitano Gold has won numerous international awards for its unique flavor profile.

7. Cedar Grove Cheese

Cedar Grove Cheese, committed to sustainable and organic practices, uses traditional methods to create their cheeses. Their cheese caves play a crucial role in developing the flavors and textures of their products.

  • Location: Plain, WI
  • Specialty: Organic Cheddar, Butterkäse, Blue Cheese
  • Tours: Available by appointment
  • Fun Fact: Cedar Grove uses a "Living Machine" to treat and recycle water used in cheesemaking.

8. Marieke Gouda

Marieke Gouda, founded by Dutch immigrants Marieke and Rolf Penterman, brings a taste of the Netherlands to Wisconsin. Their cheese caves are where their award-winning Goudas mature to perfection.

  • Location: Thorp, WI
  • Specialty: Gouda in various flavors
  • Tours: Offered daily
  • Fun Fact: Marieke Gouda has won over 150 national and international awards since its inception in 2006.

9. Widmer's Cheese Cellars

Widmer's Cheese Cellars, a family-owned business since 1922, is known for its traditional cheesemaking techniques. Their cheese caves are essential for aging their famous Brick and Cheddar cheeses.

  • Location: Theresa, WI
  • Specialty: Brick Cheese, Aged Cheddar
  • Tours: Available by appointment
  • Fun Fact: Widmer's Brick Cheese is still made using the original family recipe and hand-ladled curds.

10. Emmi Roth USA

Emmi Roth USA, part of the Swiss Emmi Group, combines European cheesemaking expertise with Wisconsin's dairy traditions. Their cheese caves are where their specialty cheeses develop their unique flavors.

  • Location: Monroe, WI
  • Specialty: Gruyère, Buttermilk Blue, Fontina
  • Tours: Limited, call ahead
  • Fun Fact: Emmi Roth's Roth Grand Cru Surchoix won the World Championship Cheese Contest in 2016.

Discover Wisconsin's Hidden Cheese Treasures

Wisconsin's cheese caves offer a unique peek into the world of cheese-making. These caves, with their perfect conditions, help create some of the best cheeses around. From the rich flavors of aged cheddar to the creamy textures of blue cheese, there's something for every cheese lover. Visiting these caves not only gives you a taste of amazing cheese but also a deeper appreciation for the craft behind it. Next time you're in Wisconsin, make sure to explore these hidden gems. You'll leave with a newfound love for cheese and maybe even a few tasty souvenirs. Whether you're a cheese enthusiast or just curious, Wisconsin's cheese caves are a must-see. Dive into this cheesy adventure and savor the flavors that make Wisconsin a cheese lover's paradise.