Rhode Island’s artisan cheese scene is flourishing, offering a delightful array of locally crafted varieties. The Ocean State boasts several family-owned creameries and cheese shops, each producing unique flavors that reflect the region’s rich culinary heritage. These artisanal cheesemakers prioritize quality, often using hormone-free milk from local farms to create their products.
Visitors and residents alike can explore Rhode Island’s cheese wonderlands, from Providence to Warren to Barrington. These establishments not only sell locally made cheeses but also curate selections from small family-owned farms across New England, the Midwest, and Europe. The revival of artisanal food movements has greatly influenced Rhode Island’s cheese-making traditions, blending European techniques with local innovation.
Rhode Island cheese shops offer more than just cheese. Many feature complementary gourmet foods like charcuterie, jams, honey, and chocolates. This allows cheese enthusiasts to create perfect pairings and elevate their tasting experiences. The state’s commitment to artisanal cheese production showcases its dedication to preserving culinary traditions while embracing modern tastes.
History of Rhode Island’s Artisan Cheese
Rhode Island’s artisan cheese industry has roots dating back to early colonial times. The state’s cheese-making traditions evolved from small family farms to a thriving artisanal movement.
Early Beginnings
Cheese production in Rhode Island started with settlers who brought European techniques. Small family farms produced cheese for local consumption. Dairy cows grazed on the state’s lush pastures, providing milk for simple, fresh cheeses.
As agriculture expanded, larger dairies emerged. By the late 1800s, some farms specialized in cheese production. They crafted traditional varieties like cheddar and colby.
Rise in Popularity
The artisan cheese revival in Rhode Island gained momentum in the late 20th century. Consumers sought locally-made, high-quality products. This sparked a new generation of cheese makers.
Narragansett Creamery, founded in 2007, became a pioneer in the state’s artisan cheese scene. They focused on using hormone-free milk from local farms. Other small producers followed suit, experimenting with unique flavors and aging techniques.
Farmers’ markets and specialty shops provided platforms for these artisanal cheeses. Rhode Island’s culinary scene embraced local cheese, featuring it in restaurants and food events. This support fueled the growth of family-owned creameries across the state.
Major Cheese Varieties
Rhode Island’s artisan cheese scene boasts a diverse array of flavors and textures. Local creameries craft exceptional varieties using milk from cows, goats, and sheep.
Cow’s Milk Cheeses
Rhode Island’s cow’s milk cheeses offer a rich spectrum of flavors. Artisan cheddar stands out for its sharp, complex taste and crumbly texture. Fresh mozzarella, prized for its delicate flavor and smooth consistency, is a local favorite. Burrata, a creamy variation of mozzarella, features a soft outer shell filled with stracciatella and cream.
Gouda, known for its nutty flavor and smooth texture, is produced by several local creameries. Renaissance Ricotta, a fresh and slightly sweet cheese, is perfect for both savory and sweet dishes. Grilling cheese, designed to hold its shape when heated, is ideal for barbecues and outdoor cooking.
Goat and Sheep Milk Cheeses
Goat cheese from Rhode Island creameries ranges from soft and tangy to aged and complex. Fresh chèvre offers a creamy texture and bright flavor, while aged varieties develop stronger, more pungent profiles.
Sheep’s milk gouda provides a rich, buttery taste with subtle sweet notes. Salty Sea Feta, made from sheep’s milk, delivers a briny flavor perfect for salads and Mediterranean dishes. Some local producers create mixed-milk cheeses, combining cow, goat, and sheep milk for unique flavor profiles.
These specialty cheeses often pair well with local charcuterie, creating delightful tasting experiences for cheese enthusiasts.
Artisan Cheese Production
Rhode Island’s artisan cheese scene is thriving, with local creameries crafting high-quality products using traditional methods and fresh ingredients. These small-scale producers prioritize flavor, texture, and sustainability in their cheese-making processes.
Craftsmanship in Cheese Making
Artisan cheese production in Rhode Island relies on skilled craftsmanship and attention to detail. Cheesemakers carefully select local, hormone-free milk from nearby farms. They often use raw milk to preserve natural flavors and beneficial bacteria.
The cheese-making process involves several steps: pasteurization (if used), culturing, coagulation, cutting the curd, draining whey, and aging. Each step requires expertise and precise timing to achieve desired flavors and textures.
Artisan producers may specialize in specific cheese varieties or experiment with unique flavor combinations. Some create traditional European-style cheeses, while others develop innovative Rhode Island-inspired creations.
Narragansett Creamery’s Process
Narragansett Creamery, founded in 2007 by Mark and Pattie Federico, exemplifies Rhode Island’s artisan cheese production. The creamery focuses on creating high-quality cheeses using local ingredients and traditional methods.
Their cheese-making process begins with sourcing fresh, hormone-free milk from New England dairy farms. Narragansett Creamery produces a variety of cheeses, including:
- Mozzarella: Hand-stretched for optimal texture
- Ricotta: Made using whole milk for rich flavor
- Yogurt: Crafted in small batches for creamy consistency
The creamery’s commitment to quality has earned them recognition throughout New England. They sell their products at farmers’ markets, fostering direct connections with customers and supporting the local food community.
Local Cheese Shops and Distributors
Rhode Island boasts several exceptional cheese shops and distributors offering a wide selection of local and imported artisanal cheeses. These establishments cater to cheese enthusiasts and culinary aficionados alike.
Edgewood Cheese Shop
Edgewood Cheese Shop stands out as a premier fromagerie in Rhode Island. Located in the heart of Cranston, this specialty store offers an impressive array of artisanal cheeses from local producers and international sources.
The shop’s knowledgeable staff guides customers through their extensive selection, providing tasting notes and pairing suggestions. Edgewood Cheese Shop also stocks complementary items like crackers, jams, and cured meats for creating perfect cheese boards.
Their commitment to quality extends to their aging practices, ensuring each cheese is sold at its peak flavor. The shop frequently hosts tasting events, allowing customers to explore new varieties and expand their palates.
The Cheese Wheel Village Market
The Cheese Wheel Village Market in Tiverton is a beloved destination for cheese lovers. This charming shop offers a curated selection of artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and local provisions.
Customers can find a diverse range of domestic and imported cheeses, from creamy bries to sharp cheddars. The market takes pride in supporting local producers, showcasing Rhode Island-made cheeses alongside international favorites.
The Cheese Wheel also offers custom cheese platters and gift baskets, perfect for special occasions or gatherings. Their knowledgeable staff provides personalized recommendations and can help craft the ideal cheese assortment for any palate or event.
Grapes and Gourmet
Grapes and Gourmet in Newport combines a passion for fine cheeses with an extensive wine selection. This upscale deli and specialty food shop offers a carefully curated cheese counter featuring both local and imported varieties.
The store’s cheese experts are well-versed in flavor profiles and pairings, guiding customers to the perfect cheese to complement their wine choices. Grapes and Gourmet also stocks a range of gourmet accompaniments, including artisanal crackers, preserves, and honeys.
Regular cheese and wine tasting events provide opportunities for customers to expand their culinary horizons and discover new favorites. The shop’s commitment to quality and customer service has made it a staple in Newport’s gourmet food scene.
Dave’s Marketplace
Dave’s Marketplace, a local grocery chain with multiple locations across Rhode Island, offers an impressive cheese selection in its deli departments. While not exclusively a cheese shop, Dave’s stands out for its commitment to stocking a wide variety of local and imported cheeses.
The stores feature dedicated cheese counters staffed by knowledgeable associates who can offer suggestions and samples. Dave’s Marketplace also carries many Rhode Island-produced cheeses, supporting local artisans and providing customers with fresh, regional options.
In addition to cheese, Dave’s deli sections offer complementary items like cured meats, olives, and freshly baked breads, making it a convenient one-stop shop for creating impressive cheese boards or finding the perfect addition to a recipe.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Rhode Island’s artisanal cheeses shine when paired thoughtfully and presented with care. The right accompaniments and serving techniques enhance flavors and textures.
Creating the Perfect Cheese Platter
Select 3-5 cheeses with varying textures and flavors. Include a soft cheese like burrata, a semi-firm option such as cheddar, and a hard cheese like aged Parmesan.
Arrange cheeses from mildest to strongest. Provide separate knives for each to prevent flavor mixing.
Add visual appeal with colorful fruits like grapes or berries. Include nuts, olives, and cured meats for contrast.
Offer a variety of breads and crackers. Sliced baguette, water crackers, and seeded crisps work well.
Accompaniments and Pairings
Sweet and salty pairings complement cheese flavors. Local honey or fruit preserves balance sharp cheeses.
Pickled vegetables add tang. Try cornichons or pickled onions.
Crusty bread and artisanal crackers provide texture. Choose plain varieties to let cheese flavors shine.
For drinks, consider local craft beers or wines. Crisp white wines pair well with fresh cheeses, while full-bodied reds complement aged varieties.
Serving Tips for Various Cheeses
Serve soft cheeses like chevre at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture. Remove from refrigeration 30-60 minutes before serving.
Cut hard cheeses into small cubes or thin slices for easy eating. Provide a cheese plane for guests to shave harder varieties.
Offer spreaders for soft cheeses and separate knives for blue cheeses to prevent flavor transfer.
Label each cheese with its name and origin. Include tasting notes to guide guests.
Store leftover cheese properly. Wrap in wax paper, then loosely in plastic wrap to allow breathing.
Community Engagement and Events
Rhode Island’s artisanal cheese scene thrives through various interactive experiences. Local events and workshops bring cheese enthusiasts together, fostering a deeper appreciation for the craft and its producers.
Cheese Tasting Events
Barrington hosts monthly cheese tastings at the town’s gourmet market. Attendees sample locally-made cheeses paired with Rhode Island wines and craft beers. Warren’s waterfront restaurants feature cheese plates showcasing regional varieties like Edgy cheddar and Black Pear blue cheese. These events often include talks by cheesemakers, allowing guests to learn about production methods and flavor profiles.
Local farms organize seasonal outdoor tastings. Visitors can enjoy picnics with cheese boards while touring the facilities. Some events incorporate live music or art displays, creating a festive atmosphere.
Cheese Making Workshops
Hands-on workshops offer insight into the cheese-making process. Participants learn to make fresh cheeses like mozzarella and ricotta. More advanced classes cover aged cheeses and the art of affinage.
Local creameries host day-long courses where attendees make their own wheel of cheese to take home. These workshops often include lunch featuring the creamery’s products.
Community centers and libraries occasionally offer free introductory classes. These sessions focus on basic techniques and the science behind cheese-making.
Local Cooking Classes
Culinary schools and specialty food stores in Rhode Island offer cooking classes centered around cheese. Participants learn to create dishes that highlight local artisanal cheeses.
Classes range from cheese board assembly to advanced culinary techniques. Popular topics include cheese pairing, fondue making, and incorporating cheese into desserts.
Some classes focus on specific cheese types, such as goat cheese or blue varieties. Instructors often invite local cheesemakers to share their expertise and stories.
Farm-to-table restaurants sometimes host special events where chefs demonstrate recipes using seasonal produce and local cheeses. These classes emphasize the importance of supporting local producers and sustainable farming practices.
Supporting Local Cheese Makers
Rhode Island’s artisan cheese scene offers a variety of high-quality products made with care and local ingredients. Supporting these cheese makers benefits both consumers and the local economy.
Benefits of Choosing Local
Local specialty cheeses often surpass mass-produced alternatives in flavor and quality. They’re made with fresh, hormone-free milk from nearby farms, ensuring superior taste and nutrition. Buying local cheese reduces transportation distances, lowering environmental impact. It also keeps money within the community, supporting local farmers and artisans.
Local cheese makers frequently experiment with unique flavors and techniques, offering consumers exciting and diverse options. Many use traditional methods passed down through generations, preserving important culinary heritage. By choosing local, consumers can often learn about the cheese-making process and even visit the farms where their food originates.
How to Find Local Producers
Farmers’ markets are excellent places to discover local cheese makers. Many Rhode Island artisans, like Narragansett Creamery, sell their products directly to consumers at these events. Local specialty food stores and co-ops often stock a selection of regional cheeses.
Some cheese shops specialize in curating local and artisanal options. In Warren, a new cheese shop opened in 2023, offering a range of New England-made cheeses. Online directories and state agriculture department websites can help locate nearby producers.
Many cheese makers offer farm tours or host tasting events. These experiences provide opportunities to learn about cheese-making processes and sample products firsthand. Social media platforms are useful for following local producers and staying informed about new products or events.
Rhode Island’s Place in the Cheese Industry
Rhode Island has carved out a unique niche in the artisan cheese market. Local producers are gaining recognition for their high-quality, innovative creations using locally sourced milk.
Current Market Trends
Rhode Island’s artisan cheese scene is thriving. Small family-owned creameries like Narragansett Creamery have emerged as leaders, producing award-winning cheeses using hormone-free local milk. Specialty cheese shops are on the rise, with new establishments opening in Warren and Barrington.
These shops offer a curated selection of local and imported cheeses, catering to growing consumer demand for artisanal products. Gouda and unique flavored cheddars are particularly popular among Rhode Island cheese enthusiasts.
Farmers’ markets have become key distribution channels for local cheesemakers. This direct-to-consumer approach allows producers to showcase their artisan cheeses and build loyal customer bases.
Future Outlook for Artisan Cheese
The future looks bright for Rhode Island’s artisan cheese industry. Increasing interest in locally-sourced, high-quality foods is driving demand for artisanal cheeses. Local producers are expected to continue innovating, creating new flavors and varieties to appeal to discerning consumers.
Collaboration between cheesemakers and other local food producers may lead to exciting new products. Partnerships with wineries, breweries, and specialty food shops could create unique tasting experiences and boost tourism.
Education initiatives are likely to play a crucial role. Cheese shops and creameries may offer more workshops and tastings, helping consumers appreciate the craftsmanship behind artisan cheeses.
