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Hidden Flavor Trails Of Vermont’s Cheese Country

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by Nerti Fleischman

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Ever wondered where to find the best cheese in Vermont? This state, known for its stunning landscapes, also boasts some of the finest cheese producers in the country. From creamy cheddars to tangy goat cheeses, Vermont's cheese country offers a delicious adventure for any food lover. Imagine driving through rolling hills, stopping at quaint farms, and sampling fresh, locally-made cheeses. Whether you're a cheese connoisseur or just someone who loves a good snack, Vermont has something to tantalize your taste buds. Ready to explore the hidden flavor trails of Vermont's cheese country? Let's dive into this cheesy paradise!

Vermont's Cheese Country: A Flavorful Adventure

Vermont, known for its picturesque landscapes, also boasts a rich cheese-making tradition. From creamy cheddars to tangy blues, the state's cheese trail offers a delightful journey for any cheese lover. Let's explore some hidden gems in Vermont's cheese country.

1. Shelburne Farms

Shelburne Farms, located on the shores of Lake Champlain, is a working farm and educational center. Their award-winning cheddar is a must-try.

  • Farm Experience: Visitors can tour the farm, meet the animals, and see cheese-making in action.
  • Tasting Room: Sample a variety of cheddars, from mild to extra sharp.
  • Scenic Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

2. Jasper Hill Farm

Jasper Hill Farm, nestled in the Northeast Kingdom, is renowned for its artisanal cheeses. Their cave-aged cheeses are a testament to their dedication to quality.

  • Cheese Cellars: Tour the underground cellars where cheeses age to perfection.
  • Signature Cheeses: Try the Bayley Hazen Blue, a creamy blue cheese with a nutty flavor.
  • Sustainable Practices: Learn about their commitment to sustainable farming and cheese production.

3. Vermont Creamery

Vermont Creamery, located in Websterville, specializes in goat cheeses and cultured butter. Their products have won numerous awards for their exceptional taste and quality.

  • Goat Cheese: Sample their fresh chèvre, aged goat cheese, and creamy goat cheese logs.
  • Butter Tasting: Don't miss their cultured butter, perfect for spreading on fresh bread.
  • Educational Tours: Discover the process of making goat cheese from start to finish.

4. Cabot Creamery

Cabot Creamery, a cooperative of over 800 farm families, produces some of the finest cheddar in the world. Their visitor center in Cabot offers a deep dive into the cheese-making process.

  • Cheese Tasting: Enjoy a variety of cheddars, from classic to specialty flavors.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Learn about the history of the cooperative and the cheese-making process.
  • Family-Friendly: Fun activities for kids, including a scavenger hunt and cheese-themed games.

5. Consider Bardwell Farm

Consider Bardwell Farm, located in West Pawlet, is known for its raw milk cheeses. Their small-batch cheeses are crafted with care and attention to detail.

  • Raw Milk Cheeses: Taste their award-winning Pawlet, a semi-hard cheese with a nutty flavor.
  • Farm Tours: Meet the goats and cows that provide the milk for their cheeses.
  • Cheese Shop: Purchase your favorite cheeses to take home and enjoy.

6. Grafton Village Cheese

Grafton Village Cheese, in the heart of Grafton, produces traditional cheddars with a modern twist. Their cheeses are made using milk from local family farms.

  • Cheddar Varieties: Sample their classic cheddars, as well as unique flavors like maple-smoked and truffle.
  • Cheese-Making Demonstrations: Watch skilled artisans craft cheese by hand.
  • Historic Village: Explore the charming village of Grafton, with its historic buildings and quaint shops.

7. Blue Ledge Farm

Blue Ledge Farm, a family-owned farm in Salisbury, specializes in goat cheeses. Their cheeses are made with milk from their own herd of goats, ensuring top quality.

  • Goat Cheese Selection: Try their fresh chèvre, crottina, and Lake's Edge, a creamy cheese with a line of vegetable ash.
  • Farm Visits: Tour the farm, meet the goats, and see where the cheese is made.
  • Sustainable Farming: Learn about their commitment to sustainable and humane farming practices.

8. Vermont Shepherd

Vermont Shepherd, located in Putney, produces some of the best sheep's milk cheeses in the country. Their cheeses are made using traditional methods passed down through generations.

  • Sheep's Milk Cheeses: Taste their award-winning Verano and Invierno, both aged to perfection.
  • Farm Tours: Visit the farm, meet the sheep, and see the cheese-making process.
  • Seasonal Flavors: Enjoy seasonal variations of their cheeses, reflecting the changing pastures and diet of the sheep.

Savoring Vermont's Cheese Country

Vermont's cheese country offers a unique blend of flavors, history, and scenic beauty. Exploring the cheese trails introduces you to artisanal cheeses crafted with passion. Each stop on the trail provides a taste of local culture and craftsmanship. From creamy cheddars to tangy blues, there's something for every palate.

Visiting these cheese makers not only supports local businesses but also gives you a deeper appreciation for the art of cheese making. The picturesque landscapes and charming towns add to the experience, making it a memorable journey.

Whether you're a cheese enthusiast or just looking for a unique travel experience, Vermont's cheese country is a must-visit. Pack your bags, hit the trails, and let your taste buds lead the way.