Andy Montoya
Whether you're a cheese connoisseur or just looking for a tasty treat, finding the perfect cheese can be a challenge. From creamy French Brie to aged Wisconsin Cheddar, there's a cheese out there for everyone. But where can you get your hands on the good stuff? Luckily, there are plenty of options, both online and in-store, to satisfy your cheese cravings.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Online Stores | iGourmet, Saxelby Cheese, Cheese Brothers, Cheeselovershop, Formaggio Kitchen, Sweet Grass Dairy, Wisconsincheese.com, Wegmans, Cowgirl Creamery, Jasper Hill, Vermont Creamery |
| Region | Wisconsin cheese is mentioned several times, as well as French, Italian, and English cheeses |
| Types of Cheese | Grass-fed, aged cheddar, string cheese, smoked string cheese, Danish blue, Saint André, Supreme Brie Bites, French Bresse Bleu, and many more |
| Other Products | Cheese gifts, tools, and accessories, flatbreads, olives, charcuterie |
| Shipping | Many stores offer free shipping |
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Online shops
There are several online shops that offer a wide variety of cheese. iGourmet is one such shop, offering a massive selection of both international and domestic cheese. You can order a gift box, bulk cheese, or even meats. Zingerman's is another online shop that offers a tailored cheese-buying experience. They offer cheese made with vegetarian rennet, cheese from a specific state, and even brunch cheese. Their website is tailored to the customer, allowing searches by shipping method, and each cheese has a landing page with its story and tasting notes.
If you're looking for Wisconsin cheese, Vern's Cheese offers award-winning classics and unique flavors. They offer everything from squeaky cheese curds to pepper jack cheese for a spicy grilled cheese. Westby Cooperative Creamery also offers a variety of Wisconsin cheeses that can be purchased online.
For those looking for regional American farmstead cheeses, Saxelby Cheese offers a selection of cheeses from small farms and creameries across the country. They ship grass-fed cheese, cheese gifts, and cheese tools and accessories nationwide.
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Local supermarkets
When it comes to finding real cheese, your local supermarket is a convenient and accessible option. Almost every supermarket these days has a dedicated cheese section, offering a varied selection to cater to different tastes and preferences. Here's what you can expect and a few tips to navigate your local supermarket's cheese offerings.
The cheese section in supermarkets is usually located in the dairy aisle, often alongside other refrigerated items like milk, butter, and yogurt. This area is typically well-stocked and organized, making it easy to browse the available options. You'll find a range of classic and popular cheese varieties, such as cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, gouda, and Parmesan. These cheeses are often sourced from local or regional producers, ensuring a steady supply of fresh cheese.
Supermarkets also tend to carry specialty cheeses, which can include imported varieties, organic options, and artisanal cheeses. These cheeses might be displayed separately or highlighted within the regular cheese section. Keep an eye out for dedicated counters or displays that feature a more curated selection. These specialty cheeses often have detailed labeling, providing information about their origin, flavor profiles, and suggested pairings.
When shopping for real cheese at your local supermarket, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Sample different varieties: Supermarkets often offer samples, especially for their specialty cheeses. Take advantage of this to explore different flavors and find your favorites.
- Check for sales and discounts: Keep an eye on the supermarket's weekly flyers or promotions. Cheeses with shorter shelf lives or those on clearance can offer a great opportunity to try something new at a discounted price.
- Inquire about sourcing: If you're interested in knowing more about the cheese's origin, don't hesitate to ask the staff. They can often provide information about the producers or suppliers, giving you insight into the cheese's quality and freshness.
- Look for proper storage: Ensure that the cheese is displayed and stored correctly. It should be kept at the appropriate temperature and wrapped or packaged to maintain freshness.
- Read the labels: Take the time to read the labels, which provide valuable information about the cheese's ingredients, nutritional content, and storage instructions. This is especially important if you have any specific dietary requirements or allergies.
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Artisan cheese shops
If you're looking for real, artisan cheese, then you're in luck! There are a number of specialist cheese shops across the United States, as well as online retailers, that can provide you with a variety of high-quality, handcrafted cheeses.
One well-known artisan cheese shop is Fromagination, located on Capitol Square in Madison, Wisconsin. Fromagination is at the centre of the state's dairy industry and is a key part of the artisan cheese revival in the United States. The shop has a European-style, "Old World" atmosphere, with recycled materials and low-energy bulbs, and it sources products from well-known cheesemakers such as Marieke Penterman and Chris Roelli. Fromagination also offers cheese-tastings, classes, and assistance at events.
Another option is Cheese Bros, which offers artisan Wisconsin cheese delivered to your door. Cheese Bros prides itself on affordable, high-quality cheese, made with a passion for the art of cheese-making, using traditional techniques with a modern twist.
For those looking for a wider variety of regional American farmstead cheeses, Saxelby Cheese offers a selection of cheeses from small farms and creameries across the country. They ship grass-fed cheese, as well as cheese gifts and accessories, nationwide.
Artisanal Premium Cheese is another online retailer that sources handcrafted artisan cheeses from across the United States. They offer a cheese club and subscription service, as well as gifts, and have received praise for their customer service and product quality.
With the rise in popularity of cooking culture and artisanal cheeses, these shops and many others are contributing to a growing appreciation for healthy, delicious, and specialty cheeses.
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Local farms
Cheese lovers and connoisseurs alike often seek out the most authentic and delicious cheeses, and one of the best ways to source such cheeses is by going directly to local farms. Local farms offer a unique opportunity to connect with the producers, learn about the cheese-making process, and, most importantly, taste and purchase fresh, high-quality cheese. Here's a guide to help you navigate finding the best cheese at local farms:
Start by researching farms in your area that produce cheese. A simple online search can point you in the right direction. Look for terms like "local cheese farms," "artisan cheese makers," or "farmstead cheese" near your location. Many small farms now have websites or social media pages, making it easier to find them and learn about their products. Some farms may also offer tours or have on-site shops where you can sample and purchase their cheese.
Another great way to locate local cheese farms is by visiting farmers' markets. These markets often bring together a variety of local producers, including cheese makers. You can talk directly to the farmers or cheese makers at their stalls, ask about their cheese-making processes, and sample their products. Farmers' markets are a fantastic way to discover hidden gems and support local agriculture.
When you visit a local farm, you'll often find a range of cheese varieties to choose from. These farms typically produce small batches, ensuring quality and attention to detail. You might come across classic favorites like cheddar or Swiss cheese, or you could discover more unique offerings such as goat cheese, blue cheese, or specialty flavored cheeses. Ask the farmers about their recommendations, the history of their cheese-making, and what pairs well with their cheeses.
Many local farms take pride in using traditional, time-honored methods to craft their cheese, and some may even offer insights into the aging process, allowing you to taste the difference that time and care make. Remember to ask about the milk source as well; the type of milk used, whether it's cow, goat, or sheep, can greatly influence the flavor and texture of the cheese.
Finally, when you purchase cheese from a local farm, you're not only getting a delicious product but also supporting local businesses and sustainable agriculture. These farms often practice environmentally friendly methods, and your support helps them continue their craft and contribute to the local economy. So, not only do you get to enjoy incredible cheese, but you also become a part of a larger movement that values tradition, quality, and community.
Imported cheese shops
When it comes to imported cheese shops, there are several options to explore, each offering a unique selection of cheeses from various parts of the world. Here are some notable shops and their specialties:
IGourmet
IGourmet stands out as a comprehensive online destination for cheese connoisseurs. It boasts a vast selection of over 800 premium quality gourmet cheeses sourced from 32 countries. iGourmet is renowned for its diverse range, offering not just the familiar favourites but also harder-to-find varieties. Their water buffalo milk cheeses are a standout feature, with options like buffalo milk mozzarella, gouda, and gorgonzola. iGourmet also presents well-curated sets and boxes, thoughtfully pairing cheeses with wines for a complete tasting experience.
Frank and Sal's Italian Market
With over 35 years of experience, Frank and Sal's Italian Market specializes in delivering authentic Italian cheese straight from Italy to your home. They carefully select their cheeses from top Italian producers, including renowned names like Locatelli. Their offerings include aged pecorino, parmigiano reggiano, and grana padano, ensuring a range to suit diverse tastes. Frank and Sal's cheese is freshly cut to order, preserving freshness and flavour.
Sweet Grass Dairy (Georgia-based)
Sweet Grass Dairy is a shining example of small-batch American cheese done right. Based in Georgia, they practice rotational grazing, ensuring happy, pasture-fed cows. Their online shop offers a wide variety, including a decadent Camembert-style Green Hill and a pimento cheese that pairs perfectly with a baguette. Sweet Grass Dairy also provides themed boxes, including all the accompaniments, tasting guides, and wine pairing suggestions for a complete culinary journey.
Harry & David
Harry & David is a curated cheese shop that goes beyond the ordinary. They offer fun and creative options, such as the Football Sausage and Cheese gift box, featuring an all-beef football-shaped sausage. Their selections include sought-after American cheesemakers like Rogue Creamery, Beehive Cheese Co., and Sartori. Harry & David presents a range of options, from craft ale cheese collections to organic cheese boxes and cheese and wine pairing suggestions.
Gusto Grocery (Online Italian Market)
Gusto Grocery is an online Italian market that takes pride in offering a variety of authentic Italian cheeses. They showcase semi-soft cheeses like Primosale, Asiago, and Caciocavallo, perfect for pairing with cured meats or melting into pastas and sauces. Their hard Italian cheeses, such as Parmigiano Reggiano DOP and Pecorino Stagionato DOP, are aged to perfection. Gusto Grocery also offers specialty cheeses like Gorgonzola Dolce DOP and Pecorino Moliterno with Black Truffle for extra special flavours and textures.
Frequently asked questions
There are many online retailers that sell and ship real cheese, such as iGourmet, Saxelby Cheese, Cheese Brothers, and Cheeselovershop.
iGourmet has a large selection of both international and domestic cheese. They have a vast selection of water buffalo milk options, including buffalo milk butter, buffalo milk Gouda, and buffalo milk Gorgonzola.
Saxelby Cheese has a selection of regional American farmstead cheeses, while Cheese Brothers offers delicious and fresh cheese at decent prices. Cheeselovershop offers a variety of French cheeses, including Brie and goat cheese.
Bresse Bleu, a French cheese with a creamy heart and delicate bloomy rind, is a refined culinary experience. Saint André, a soft ripened cheese with a buttery texture and creamy heart, won the Gold World Cheese Award in 2022.
Boston-based Formaggio Kitchen carries a wide variety of artisan cheeses from around the world, including several versions of nutty, mild Comté.
