Secret Underground Cheese Caves Of New York
Have you ever heard of the secret underground cheese caves of New York? These hidden gems store some of the finest cheeses in the world. Located beneath the bustling streets, these caves provide the perfect environment for aging cheese. The cool, humid conditions mimic those of natural caves, ensuring each wheel matures to perfection. Cheese lovers and curious travelers alike will find these subterranean vaults fascinating. Imagine walking through tunnels lined with shelves of aging cheese, each with its own unique aroma. Whether you're a cheese connoisseur or just looking for an unusual adventure, these caves offer a peek into a world few get to see.
Secret Underground Cheese Caves of New York
New York is known for its skyscrapers, bustling streets, and iconic landmarks. But beneath the surface lies a hidden world of cheese caves. These subterranean sanctuaries are where some of the finest cheeses age to perfection. Let's take a look at some of these secret underground cheese caves.
1. Crown Finish Caves
Located in Brooklyn, Crown Finish Caves is a former brewery turned cheese-aging facility. The caves are 30 feet below ground, providing the perfect environment for aging cheese. The constant temperature and humidity levels make it ideal for developing complex flavors.
- Location: Brooklyn, New York
- Specialty: Washed-rind cheeses
- Fun Fact: The caves were originally built in the 1850s as part of the Nassau Brewery.
2. Murray's Cheese Caves
Murray's Cheese, a beloved New York institution, has its own set of cheese caves right beneath its store in Greenwich Village. These caves are meticulously maintained to ensure the cheeses develop their unique characteristics.
- Location: Greenwich Village, New York
- Specialty: Bloomy rind and blue cheeses
- Fun Fact: Murray's Cheese has been a staple in New York since 1940.
3. The Cellars at Jasper Hill
While not in New York City, The Cellars at Jasper Hill in Vermont supplies many New York cheesemongers. These cellars are renowned for their state-of-the-art aging facilities and commitment to quality.
- Location: Greensboro, Vermont
- Specialty: Clothbound cheddar
- Fun Fact: The Cellars at Jasper Hill won the Best in Show at the American Cheese Society competition.
4. Old Chatham Sheepherding Company
Nestled in the Hudson Valley, Old Chatham Sheepherding Company is famous for its sheep's milk cheeses. Their underground caves provide the perfect conditions for aging these delicate cheeses.
- Location: Old Chatham, New York
- Specialty: Sheep's milk cheeses
- Fun Fact: The company started with just 150 sheep and has grown significantly over the years.
5. Consider Bardwell Farm
Consider Bardwell Farm, located in Vermont, also supplies many New York cheese shops. Their underground caves are essential for aging their award-winning cheeses.
- Location: West Pawlet, Vermont
- Specialty: Raw milk cheeses
- Fun Fact: The farm was Vermont's first cheese-making co-op, established in 1864.
6. Sprout Creek Farm
Sprout Creek Farm in Poughkeepsie offers a variety of cheeses aged in their underground caves. The farm focuses on sustainable practices and education, making it a unique destination for cheese lovers.
- Location: Poughkeepsie, New York
- Specialty: Cow's milk cheeses
- Fun Fact: The farm also runs educational programs for children and adults.
7. Nettle Meadow Farm
Located in the Adirondacks, Nettle Meadow Farm is known for its artisanal goat and sheep cheeses. Their underground caves help develop the rich flavors that make their cheeses stand out.
- Location: Thurman, New York
- Specialty: Goat and sheep cheeses
- Fun Fact: The farm is also a sanctuary for rescued farm animals.
8. The Cheese Grotto
The Cheese Grotto in the Catskills offers a unique experience for cheese enthusiasts. Their underground caves are designed to mimic the conditions of traditional European cheese caves.
- Location: Catskills, New York
- Specialty: A variety of artisanal cheeses
- Fun Fact: The Cheese Grotto also offers workshops and tastings for visitors.
Hidden Cheese Caves Await
New York's underground cheese caves offer a unique adventure for food lovers. These hidden gems store and age some of the finest cheeses, creating flavors you won't find anywhere else. Visiting these caves gives you a peek into the art of cheese-making and the science behind it. It's not just about tasting; it's about experiencing the rich history and tradition that goes into every wheel.
Exploring these caves can be a fun and educational trip. You'll learn about different types of cheese, how they're aged, and why these caves are perfect for the process. Plus, you'll get to taste some amazing cheeses right at the source.
Next time you're in New York, make sure to add these underground cheese caves to your itinerary. It's an experience that will delight your taste buds and expand your knowledge of cheese.