New Jersey’s artisan cheese scene is thriving, offering a delightful array of locally crafted dairy delicacies. The Garden State’s cheesemakers are producing exceptional varieties that rival those from renowned cheese-producing regions worldwide. These skilled artisans combine traditional techniques with innovative approaches to create unique flavors that reflect New Jersey’s diverse landscape and agricultural heritage.
From fresh mozzarella to aged raw milk cheeses, New Jersey’s artisanal offerings cater to a wide range of palates. Many of these cheesemakers source their milk from local farms, ensuring the highest quality ingredients while supporting the state’s agricultural economy. Specialty cheese shops and farmers markets throughout NJ provide opportunities for cheese enthusiasts to discover and savor these local creations.
The artisan cheese movement in New Jersey has fostered a vibrant community of producers, retailers, and consumers. Cheesemakers often collaborate and share knowledge, contributing to the continued growth and refinement of the state’s cheese industry. This dedication to craftsmanship and quality has put New Jersey on the map as a destination for cheese lovers seeking authentic, locally-made products.
The History and Culture of New Jersey Cheesemaking
New Jersey’s cheesemaking tradition blends European influences with local innovation. The state’s dairy industry has evolved from small family farms to artisanal producers, shaping a unique cheese culture.
Early Beginnings to Modern Days
Cheesemaking in New Jersey dates back to colonial times when settlers brought European techniques. Early production focused on practical, long-lasting cheeses for local consumption.
In the 19th century, improved transportation allowed for wider distribution. This led to the growth of larger dairy operations and cheese factories.
The mid-20th century saw a decline in local cheesemaking as industrial production took over. However, a resurgence began in the 1980s with artisanal producers reviving traditional methods.
Today, New Jersey boasts a thriving artisan cheese scene. Small-scale producers like Jersey Artisan Co. and Bobolink Dairy craft unique cheeses that reflect the state’s terroir.
Influence of Local Heritage and Traditions
New Jersey’s cheese culture is a tapestry of diverse influences. Italian immigrants brought their cheesemaking expertise, as seen in Jersey Artisan Co.’s collaboration with a Calabrian cheesemaker.
Local cheesemakers often incorporate regional flavors and ingredients. This creates distinctive varieties that showcase New Jersey’s agricultural bounty.
The state’s cheese culture emphasizes community connection. Artisan cheese shops serve as hubs where patrons discover new flavors and support local producers.
Seasonal variations play a role in New Jersey cheesemaking. Producers like Bobolink Dairy use traditional methods, such as inoculating milk with naturally cultured whey from the previous day’s production.
Types of Cheese Crafted in New Jersey
New Jersey artisans produce a diverse array of high-quality cheeses, ranging from fresh varieties to aged specialties. The state’s creameries and farms craft unique flavors that reflect local terroir and traditional techniques.
Farmstead Cheese Varieties
Farmstead cheeses, made with milk from animals raised on the same farm, are a hallmark of New Jersey’s artisanal cheese scene. Valley Shepherd Creamery in Long Valley stands out for its commitment to old-world traditions. They produce over 25 different types of cheeses, including a notable American-made Pecorino Romano.
Many New Jersey farms specialize in goat cheese, offering creamy chèvres and aged varieties. These farmstead cheeses often incorporate local herbs and flavors, showcasing the Garden State’s agricultural bounty.
Some creameries age their cheeses in man-made caves, allowing for precise control over humidity and temperature. This process results in complex flavors and textures that rival European imports.
Popular Artisan Cheeses
Fresh mozzarella is a staple of New Jersey’s cheese culture. Artisans like Jersey Artisan Co. and Maplewood Wheelhouse craft milky, fresh-pulled mozzarella that’s prized for its tender texture and subtle flavor.
Ricotta, another Italian-inspired favorite, is produced by several New Jersey cheesemakers. These fresh, creamy cheeses are often used in both sweet and savory dishes.
Aged cheddars from New Jersey creameries develop sharp, complex flavors over time. Some producers experiment with flavored varieties, incorporating local ingredients like herbs or spices.
Burrata, a luxurious cheese consisting of a mozzarella exterior filled with cream and stracciatella, is gaining popularity among New Jersey artisans. This indulgent cheese showcases the high quality of local dairy.
Key Cheese Producers and Creameries
New Jersey boasts several exceptional artisanal cheese producers. These creameries craft unique varieties using traditional methods and high-quality milk from local farms.
Valley Shepherd Creamery
Valley Shepherd Creamery stands out as a premier cheese producer in New Jersey. Located in Long Valley, this creamery offers over 30 varieties of handcrafted cheeses. They use milk from their own flock of East Friesian sheep, as well as cow and goat milk from neighboring farms.
The creamery’s state-of-the-art facility cost $3 million to build. It features modern equipment combined with age-old cheesemaking techniques. Visitors can tour the creamery and witness the cheese-making process firsthand.
Valley Shepherd’s most popular cheeses include:
- Califon Tomme: A semi-hard cheese made from sheep and cow milk
- Oldwick Shepherd: An aged raw sheep milk cheese
- Valley Thunder: A sharp cheddar-style cheese
The creamery also offers cheese-making classes and farm tours, providing an immersive experience for cheese enthusiasts.
Bobolink Dairy and Bakehouse
Bobolink Dairy and Bakehouse, located in Milford, specializes in raw milk cheeses made from grass-fed cows. Founders Jonathan and Nina White prioritize sustainable farming practices and traditional cheesemaking methods.
Their signature cheeses include:
- Drumm: A firm, alpine-style cheese
- Jean-Louis: A washed-rind cheese with a pungent aroma
- Frolic: A fresh, spreadable cheese
Bobolink’s cows graze on diverse pastures, resulting in complex milk flavors that shine through in their cheeses. The farm also produces artisanal bread, creating perfect pairings for their dairy products.
Visitors can enjoy farm tours, cheese tastings, and even participate in cheesemaking workshops at Bobolink.
Cherry Grove Farm
Cherry Grove Farm in Lawrenceville is a sustainable dairy operation producing an array of artisanal cheeses. The farm manages a herd of grass-fed cows, emphasizing animal welfare and environmental stewardship.
Their cheese selection includes:
- Buttercup Brie: A creamy, bloomy-rind cheese
- Toma Primavera: A semi-firm cheese with herbs
- Havilah: An aged raw milk cheese with a nutty flavor
Cherry Grove Farm offers educational programs and farm tours. Visitors can learn about sustainable farming practices and the art of cheesemaking.
The farm also produces yogurt, kefir, and seasonal specialties, showcasing the versatility of their high-quality milk.
Gorgeous Goat Creamery
Gorgeous Goat Creamery, situated in Stockton, specializes in small-batch goat milk cheeses. Owner Eran Wajswol crafts unique varieties that highlight the distinctive flavors of goat milk.
The creamery’s popular cheeses include:
- Feta: A tangy, crumbly cheese perfect for salads
- Chevre: A fresh, spreadable goat cheese
- Gouda: A semi-hard cheese with a sweet, nutty flavor
Gorgeous Goat Creamery sources milk from local goat farms, ensuring freshness and supporting the community. Visitors can purchase cheeses directly from the creamery and learn about the goat cheese-making process.
The creamery also participates in local farmers’ markets, making their artisanal goat cheeses accessible to cheese lovers across New Jersey.
Cheese Making Process and Techniques
New Jersey artisan cheesemakers blend traditional methods with innovative approaches to craft unique, high-quality cheeses. They prioritize local ingredients and sustainable practices throughout the production process.
Traditional Methods
Artisan cheesemakers in New Jersey often start with raw milk from grass-fed cows. This milk is carefully heated to specific temperatures depending on the cheese variety. Cultures and rennet are added to coagulate the milk, forming curds and whey. The curds are cut, stirred, and heated further to expel moisture.
Cheesemakers then mold and press the curds into shapes. Aging occurs in temperature-controlled environments. During this time, cheeses develop distinct flavors and textures. Some varieties are washed with brine or wrapped in cloth to enhance their characteristics.
Local ingredients like herbs or spices may be incorporated for unique flavor profiles. Many New Jersey cheesemakers use traditional recipes passed down through generations, preserving time-honored techniques.
Innovative Approaches
New Jersey’s artisan cheesemakers also embrace modern innovations to create distinctive products. Some use specialized equipment for precise temperature and humidity control during aging. Others experiment with unusual flavor combinations or aging methods.
Sustainable practices are a focus for many producers. Solar panels power some creameries, while others use whey byproducts for fertilizer or animal feed. Some cheesemakers develop vegetarian-friendly cheeses using plant-based rennet alternatives.
Artisans may collaborate with local breweries or wineries to create cheese washed in beer or wine. Others infuse cheeses with seasonal flavors like pumpkin or cranberry. These innovative approaches allow New Jersey cheesemakers to stand out in the market while maintaining high-quality standards.
Sourcing and Importance of Local Ingredients
New Jersey’s artisan cheese scene thrives on locally sourced ingredients. This commitment to regional products enhances flavor profiles and supports the local economy.
Role of Jersey and Guernsey Cows
Jersey and Guernsey cows play a crucial role in New Jersey’s artisan cheese production. These breeds are prized for their rich, high-butterfat milk.
Jersey cows, originally from the Channel Islands, produce milk with a high cream content. This milk creates cheese with a smooth texture and buttery flavor.
Guernsey cows, also from the Channel Islands, yield golden-hued milk rich in beta-carotene. Their milk contributes to cheese with a natural yellow color and distinct taste.
Local dairy farms raising these breeds ensure a steady supply of premium milk for cheese makers. This direct sourcing allows for better quality control and fresher products.
Garden State’s Bounty
New Jersey’s diverse agricultural landscape provides an array of ingredients for artisan cheese production. The state’s fertile soil supports a variety of crops that complement cheese-making.
Tomatoes, a Garden State staple, often feature in flavored cheeses or as accompaniments. Local herbs and spices add unique touches to artisan varieties.
Some innovative cheese makers incorporate black truffles sourced from specialty suppliers. These rare fungi impart a luxurious flavor to select cheese offerings.
Partnerships with distributors like Zone 7 and Harvest Drop facilitate access to fresh, local ingredients. This farm-to-table approach ensures the highest quality components for cheese production.
By prioritizing local sourcing, New Jersey’s artisan cheese makers create products that truly reflect the state’s terroir and agricultural heritage.
Pairing New Jersey Cheeses
New Jersey artisan cheeses offer diverse flavors that shine when paired thoughtfully. Selecting complementary foods and beverages enhances the tasting experience.
Cheese Pairing Basics
When pairing cheese, consider contrasting or complementary flavors and textures. Mild cheeses often pair well with light wines or beers, while stronger cheeses can stand up to bolder beverages.
Fresh, soft cheeses like goat cheese work nicely with crisp white wines or light beers. Aged, hard cheeses pair well with full-bodied red wines or dark ales.
For food pairings, fruits, nuts, and cured meats are classic choices. Honey or jams can balance salty or tangy cheeses. Crusty bread or crackers provide a neutral base.
Curated Pairing Suggestions
Valley Shepherd Creamery’s Oldwick Shepherd: Pair this sheep’s milk cheese with a fruity red wine like Pinot Noir. Add dried cherries and walnuts for a perfect cheese board.
Cherry Grove Farm’s Herdsman: This raw cow’s milk cheese pairs beautifully with a crisp hard cider. Serve with sliced apples and prosciutto.
Bobolink Dairy’s cave-aged cheddar: Try this robust cheese with a hoppy IPA. Accompany with spiced nuts and dark chocolate for contrast.
Consider Blake Hill’s Spiced Plum with Port preserves to complement blue cheeses like Bayley Hazen or Gorgonzola Dulce.
Sustainable Farming and Ethical Practices
New Jersey artisanal cheesemakers are embracing sustainable farming methods and ethical practices. These approaches prioritize animal welfare, environmental stewardship, and community engagement.
Eco-friendly Dairy Farming
Many New Jersey cheese producers implement rotational grazing systems. This practice allows cows to graze on different pastures, promoting soil health and biodiversity. Grass-fed cows produce milk with higher nutritional value and contribute to carbon sequestration.
Some farms use renewable energy sources like solar panels to power their operations. Water conservation techniques, such as rainwater harvesting and efficient irrigation systems, help reduce environmental impact.
Waste management is another key focus. Composting and recycling programs turn byproducts into valuable resources. Some cheesemakers even use whey, a cheese production byproduct, as fertilizer or animal feed.
Community Support and Education
New Jersey artisanal cheesemakers often engage in community outreach and educational programs. Farm tours provide visitors with firsthand experience of sustainable dairy practices. These tours showcase the journey from pasture to plate, highlighting the importance of ethical animal treatment.
Workshops and classes teach cheese-making techniques and the principles of sustainable farming. Some producers partner with local schools to offer educational field trips, fostering an appreciation for agriculture among young people.
Community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs allow consumers to directly support local cheese producers. These initiatives strengthen the connection between farmers and consumers, promoting transparency and trust in the food system.
Where to Find and Purchase
New Jersey offers numerous options for cheese enthusiasts to discover and acquire local artisanal cheeses. From farm-direct purchases to specialty shops, the state provides diverse avenues for exploring its rich cheese-making heritage.
From Farm to Table
Several New Jersey creameries welcome visitors to purchase cheese directly from their farms. Valley Shepherd Creamery, located within an hour of New York City, offers award-winning artisanal cheeses made from sheep, goat, and cow milk. The 120-acre farm in Morris County produces over 30 styles of cheese, yogurt, and butter.
Visitors can tour the facilities, participate in cheesemaking classes, and purchase products on-site. This farm-to-table experience allows cheese lovers to connect with the source of their favorite dairy products and learn about traditional cheesemaking techniques.
Cheese Shops and Farmers’ Markets
Specialty cheese shops and farmers’ markets across New Jersey provide convenient access to local artisanal cheeses. Van Hook Cheese & Grocery in Jersey City offers a curated selection of cut-to-order cheeses, including local varieties. The shop has become a neighborhood destination for cheese enthusiasts since its opening in 2016.
Montclair and other towns host weekly farmers’ markets where local cheesemakers showcase their products. These markets offer an opportunity to sample and purchase fresh, seasonal cheeses while supporting local artisans. Jersey Artisan Co., founded by Salvatore Pisani, brings Southern Italian traditions to New Jersey’s cheese scene and can be found at various markets and their brick-and-mortar location.
Tasting Events and Educational Tours
New Jersey offers cheese enthusiasts unique opportunities to experience artisanal cheeses through tasting events and behind-the-scenes tours. These immersive activities allow visitors to explore the world of local cheese production and expand their palates.
Immersive Cheese Tasting Experiences
Valley Shepherd Creamery hosts wine and cheese tasting dinners, combining local cheeses with carefully selected wines. These events provide a guided sensory journey through flavor profiles and pairings.
Cherry Grove Farm offers private tasting tours, allowing guests to sample their artisanal cheeses in an intimate setting. Visitors can learn about the cheesemaking process while enjoying a curated selection of farm-fresh products.
Many creameries participate in the annual Artisan Cheese Festival, showcasing their finest creations. This event brings together producers and cheese lovers for a day of sampling, education, and celebration of New Jersey’s cheese culture.
Educational Tours at Creameries
Valley Shepherd Creamery welcomes visitors and school groups to tour their facilities. Guests can explore the milking parlor and aging rooms, gaining insight into the cheese production process from start to finish.
Cherry Grove Farm provides private tours that offer a comprehensive look at their sustainable farming practices and cheesemaking techniques. Visitors can observe the entire journey from pasture to plate.
Some creameries, like Valley Shepherd, offer tours of their cheese caves. These cool, humid environments play a crucial role in developing the flavors and textures of aged cheeses. Touring a cave gives visitors a unique perspective on the art of cheese aging.
