Move over, Wisconsin – Michigan is making waves in the cheese industry! In fact, this state produces the most milk per cow in the nation, and with over 900 dairy farms, that means there is plenty of cheese to go around (and we’re not even counting the goats)! Get the know-how on local cheese here, or find a local cheesemaker or purveyor using our Find Food and Farms Directory.
What is Farmstead Cheese?
According to the American Cheese Society, a farmstead cheese is produced using only the milk from animals on the farm. This can range from sheep to goat to cow’s milk, but no outside sources may be used. So, if you see a label with this term, expect to see a herd behind the creamery!
What is Pinconning Cheese?
While Michigan makers boast a huge range of cheesemaking styles, Pinconning is known as the Cheese Capital of Michigan due to the style of cheese originally created there in 1915. Pinconning cheese is similar to Colby, but the curds are cold-water washed, which results in a sweeter cheese that can be aged in cellars for as long as 120 months. Now, Pinconning cheese can be found in the iconic creamery stores still in existence today or found at retailers statewide.
Best Local Cheese Varieties for Alternative Diets
Eating cheese as a part of a healthy diet? Cheese can fit into many different eating regimens! Those seeking local cheese for protein should consider fresh mozzarella, which boasts up to 8 grams of protein per ounce. Keeping an eye on your sodium? Again, fresh mozzarella, or its cousin, ricotta cheese, may be your best bet. Does lactose make your belly rumble? Aim for an aged cheese, which, as a rule, will contain less lactose the longer it ages.
Cheese Tastings and Events in Michigan
Looking to ‘cheese the day’ and double down on your Michigan cheese experience? You’re in luck! Cheesemakers host fabulous events year-round to learn more about dairy deliciousness.
Zingerman’s Deli in Ann Arbor has a packed event schedule with many guided cheese tastings and classes, and Idyll Farms, a goat cheese icon on the Leelanau Peninsula, also hosts great events to keep an eye out for. In Southwest Michigan, Verdant Hollow Farms can arrange for a goat walk and a stop in the farm store for some fresh chevre. Still not enough cheese to satisfy? Mark your calendar for Cheese Fest with Leelanau Cheese of Suttons Bay for classes, tours, samples, and even a Cheese Olympics!
So what are you waiting for? Find some local cheese today!