A guide to American artisan cheese — the modern renaissance producing world-class cheeses across the US, with icons worth seeking out.
In recent decades, the United States has undergone a remarkable cheese renaissance, with artisan producers crafting world-class cheeses that win international awards and rival the great traditions of Europe. From Vermont to California, American artisan cheese is one of the most exciting stories in the cheese world.
From Commodity to Craft
For much of the 20th century, American cheese meant mass-produced commodity cheddar and processed slices. But starting in the late 20th century, a new generation of small producers began making handcrafted cheeses inspired by European traditions and rooted in local milk and terroir. This artisan movement has flourished, supported by organizations like the American Cheese Society, and the US now produces an extraordinary range of high-quality cheeses.
Vermont: An Artisan Hub
Vermont is a heartland of American artisan cheese. Producers like Jasper Hill Farm have become famous for both making cheese and aging it in purpose-built cellars, including the acclaimed Cabot Clothbound Cheddar (aged at Jasper Hill) and original creations like the bloomy-rind Harbison. Vermont's dairy heritage and cool climate have made it a center of excellence.
Wisconsin: America's Dairyland
Wisconsin, long the country's dairy powerhouse, has embraced artisan cheesemaking alongside its huge commodity production. Standouts include Uplands Cheese's Pleasant Ridge Reserve, a grass-fed Alpine-style cheese that has won America's top honors multiple times. Wisconsin's deep cheesemaking knowledge and Master Cheesemaker program underpin its artisan success.
California and Beyond
California is another major artisan center, home to icons like Cypress Grove's Humboldt Fog, the ash-layered goat cheese that became a symbol of American artisan cheese. Across the country — from the Pacific Northwest to New York and the South — small producers are making farmstead cheddars, washed-rind cheeses, blues, and fresh goat cheeses of remarkable quality.
Iconic American Cheeses
Several American cheeses have achieved icon status: Humboldt Fog (California goat cheese), Pleasant Ridge Reserve (Wisconsin Alpine), Cabot Clothbound Cheddar (Vermont), Maytag Blue (Iowa heritage blue), and Rogue River Blue (Oregon), among others. These cheeses prove that American artisans can compete with — and beat — the world's best.
How to Explore American Artisan Cheese
Visit a good cheese shop or farmers' market and ask for local and American artisan cheeses. Build a board with an American Alpine-style cheese, a farmstead cheddar, an artisan goat cheese like Humboldt Fog, and an American blue. Pair with American craft beer, cider, or wine. Supporting local cheesemakers is part of the pleasure.
Pairings
American artisan cheeses pair beautifully with American craft beers and ciders, as well as with wine. On the plate, local honey, fruit, nuts, and good bread complement them, and pairings can echo each cheese's regional roots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is American cheese just processed slices?
No. Alongside commodity and processed cheese, the US has a thriving artisan movement producing world-class handcrafted cheeses.
What are some iconic American artisan cheeses?
Humboldt Fog, Pleasant Ridge Reserve, Cabot Clothbound Cheddar, Maytag Blue, and Rogue River Blue, among others.
Where is American artisan cheese made?
Across the country, with notable hubs in Vermont, Wisconsin, and California, plus excellent producers in many other states.