The Best Cheese Shops in Vermont

Discovering the best cheese shops in Vermont is a delightful journey through the state's rich cheesemaking tradition and scenic beauty. Vermont cheese shops are renowned for their artisanal craftsmanship and commitment to quality. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these must-visit destinations will satisfy your cheese cravings and celebrate the unique flavors of Vermont's cheese scene.

Northern Vermont: Jasper Hill Farm

Region Description:

Northern Vermont is a true gem for cheese lovers, with its idyllic landscapes, rolling hills, and vibrant agricultural community. This region is perfect for a serene road trip, offering picturesque views and a rich history of dairy farming. It’s a place where the pastoral charm meets gourmet excellence, and Jasper Hill Farm epitomizes this blend perfectly.

Location: 884 Garvin Hill Road, Greensboro Bend, VT 05842
Nearest Landmark: Caspian Lake
Operating Days and Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM
Cheese Selection: Specializes in soft cheeses like Harbison, Moses Sleeper, and Bayley Hazen
Website: https://www.jasperhillfarm.com/

Ambiance: The ambiance at Jasper Hill Farm is rustic yet refined. As you approach the farm, you’re greeted by the sight of lush green fields and the serene countryside. The farm itself has a charming, old-world feel, with traditional barns and modern cheese-aging caves seamlessly integrated into the landscape. Walking through Jasper Hill, you can sense the dedication to sustainable farming and artisanal cheese-making. It’s a peaceful retreat where the air is filled with the wholesome scent aging cheese.

How's the Service?: The service is nothing short of exceptional. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate about their craft, always ready to share insights about the cheese-making process. During my visit, I was fortunate enough to join a guided tour. Our guide, a cheesemaker with years of experience, explained the nuances of different cheeses and the importance of aging in their subterranean caves. The tasting session was a highlight, where we sampled a variety of cheeses paired with local condiments. The personalized attention and depth of information provided made the experience truly memorable.

Price Check: Their prices reflect the quality and craftsmanship of their products. You can expect to pay a premium for these artisanal cheeses, but it's worth every penny. Individual cheeses range from $15 to $30, depending on the variety and aging. The farm also offers beautifully curated cheese boxes, perfect for gifting or indulging yourself. While the prices might seem steep, the quality and flavor of Jasper Hill’s cheeses justify the investment.

What Sets Them Apart?: This award-winning cheesemaker stands out for its commitment to quality and innovation in cheese-making. They specialize in soft cheeses like Harbison, Moses Sleeper, and Bayley Hazen Blue, which are all aged in their unique underground caves. These caves provide the perfect environment for developing complex flavors and textures. Their dedication to sustainability and local farming practices also makes them stand out. They work closely with local milk producers, ensuring the highest quality milk for their cheeses and supporting the community. Their innovative approach to cheese aging and their unwavering commitment to excellence make them a must-visit for any cheese enthusiast.

Central Vermont: Cabot Creamery

Region Description: Central Vermont is the heart of the Green Mountain State, characterized by its charming small towns, rolling hills, and a strong sense of community. This region is a blend of pastoral beauty and cultural vibrancy, where agriculture plays a central role. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in the local way of life, enjoy scenic drives, and explore Vermont’s rich agricultural heritage, particularly in cheesemaking.

Location: 2878 Main Street, Cabot, VT 05647
Nearest Landmark: Cabot Town Hall
Operating Days and Hours: Daily, 8 AM to 6 PM
Cheese Selection: Wide variety including award-winning cheddars, specialty blends, and Greek yogurt
Website: https://cabotcreamery.com/

Ambiance: Stepping into the Cabot cheese shop in Vermont feels like entering a hub of community spirit and cheese-making excellence. The shop itself is a bustling, welcoming place, with an atmosphere that combines modern efficiency with rustic charm. The visitor center is bright and engaging, featuring interactive exhibits that detail the history of Cabot and the cheese-making process. The entire space exudes a sense of pride and tradition, making it a delightful stop for families, foodies, and curious tourists alike.

How's the Service?: The service there is outstanding. The staff is friendly, approachable, and deeply knowledgeable about all things cheese. While I was there, I joined one of their guided tours, which was both informative and fun. The guide walked us through the entire cheese-making process, from milk to finished product, and answered all our questions with enthusiasm and expertise. The highlight was, of course, the tasting room, where we got to sample a wide array of their famous cheeses. The staff made sure we understood the unique characteristics of each cheese, offering pairing suggestions and serving tips. Their genuine passion for their work made the experience both enjoyable and educational.

Price Check: Agri-Mark, a cooperative of 800 farm families, offers a range of cheeses under their brand that cater to different budgets. Their cheeses are reasonably priced, especially considering their quality and the care that goes into their production. You can find classic varieties starting around $5, with specialty and aged varieties going up to $20. They also offer gift boxes and cheese assortments, which are great for special occasions or as souvenirs. Overall, the prices are fair and offer good value for the exceptional quality you’re getting.

What Sets Them Apart?: This place is unique in its cooperative structure and commitment to community. Owned by 800 farm families of Agri-Mark, it represents the collaborative spirit of the state’s dairy industry. This cooperative model ensures that profits are reinvested into the community and support local farmers. Renowned for its award-winning cheeses, with a product line ranging from mild to seriously sharp varieties, the cheesemaker also operates a Vermont cheese shop showcasing their unique blends and specialty cheeses like the Farmers’ Legacy Collection. What truly sets this cheesemaker apart is their dedication to quality and tradition, combined with a forward-thinking approach to sustainability and community support.

Southern Vermont: Grafton Village Cheese

Region Description: Southern Vermont is a region rich in history and natural beauty, dotted with quaint villages, scenic byways, and lush forests. It's an area that beautifully balances tradition with a touch of modern charm. Grafton, in particular, is a quintessential town with its historic buildings, covered bridges, and vibrant local culture. The region's dedication to preserving its heritage makes it a perfect destination for those looking to experience authentic Vermont life.

Location533 Townshend Road, Grafton, VT 05146Nearest LandmarkGrafton InnOperating Days and HoursMonday to Saturday: 10 AM to 5 PMSunday: 11 AM to 4 PMCheese SelectionKnown for its aged cheddars and cave-aged cheesesWebsitehttps://www.graftonvillagecheese.com/

Ambiance: The ambiance at Grafton Village Cheese is a delightful blend of rustic charm and artisanal sophistication. As you approach the store in Grafton, you’re greeted by picturesque surroundings that exude a timeless quality. The shop itself is warm and inviting, with shelves lined with an impressive array of cheeses and gourmet products. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, encouraging you to take your time exploring the various offerings and savoring the rich history that permeates the place.

How's the Service?: Service at Grafton Village Cheese is exceptional, with a staff that is both friendly and deeply knowledgeable about their products. During my visit, I was impressed by how eager the employees were to share their expertise and passion for cheese. They provided insightful recommendations and were more than happy to let me sample different varieties. The guided tour was particularly memorable; it offered a behind-the-scenes look at the cheese-making process and a chance to learn about the history of the company and its commitment to quality. The personalized attention and genuine enthusiasm of the staff made the experience truly special.

Price Check: This place offers a range of prices that reflect the quality and craftsmanship of their products. Their cheeses, particularly the aged varieties and specialty cave-aged selections, are priced moderately to high. A typical piece of their renowned cheese can range from $8 to $20 depending on the age and type. They also offer curated gift boxes that make excellent souvenirs or gifts, ranging from $30 to $75. While some items may seem pricier, the exceptional taste and quality make them well worth the cost.

What Sets Them Apart?: They stand out for its dedication to tradition and quality. They specialize in aged cheddars and unique cave-aged cheeses that have won numerous awards. Their commitment to using high-quality, locally sourced milk and their meticulous aging process result in cheeses with deep, complex flavors. What truly sets them apart, however, is their connection to the community and the mission of the Windham Foundation, which supports rural communities in Vermont. This blend of high-quality products, artisanal methods, and community focus makes them a standout in the cheese world.

Western Vermont: Vermont Farmstead Cheese Company

Region Description: Western Vermont, with its lush valleys and the influence of Lake Champlain, is a haven for foodies and nature lovers alike. The region is characterized by its fertile land, making it perfect for dairy farming and cheese-making. This area is home to vibrant small towns and scenic landscapes that invite exploration and indulgence in local culinary delights. It’s a place where tradition meets innovation, and nowhere is this more evident than at the Vermont Farmstead Cheese Company.

Location: 2055 Woodstock Road, South Woodstock, VT 05071
Nearest Landmark: Billings Farm & Museum
Operating Days and Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM
Cheese Selection: Offers a variety of artisanal cheeses including Lille, Brick Haus Tilsit, and Governor's Cheddar
Website: https://vermontfarmstead.com/

Ambiance: The Vermont Farmstead Cheese Company offers a charming and picturesque setting that perfectly encapsulates the beauty of Western Vermont. As you arrive at the farm in South Woodstock, you're greeted by sprawling green fields and a sense of tranquility. The farmstead itself has a quaint, welcoming atmosphere, with a modern touch that showcases their commitment to quality and sustainability. It’s a serene spot that feels both authentic and inviting, making it an ideal destination for cheese lovers looking to enjoy the Vermont countryside.

How's the Service?: Service is outstanding. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about their products. During my visit, I was warmly welcomed and given a comprehensive tour of the facilities. The guide explained the cheese-making process in detail, from the milking of the cows to the aging of the cheeses. The tasting room was a highlight, where I got to sample a variety of their artisanal cheeses. The staff’s enthusiasm and expertise made the experience both educational and enjoyable, and their willingness to answer questions and provide recommendations was much appreciated.

Price Check: Prices at Vermont Farmstead Cheese Company are reasonable given the quality and care that goes into their products. Cheeses typically range from $8 to $25, depending on the type and age. They offer a variety of options, from everyday favorites to more specialty selections, making it easy to find something that fits your budget. Additionally, they offer curated cheese boxes and gift baskets that are perfect for special occasions or as souvenirs, with prices ranging from $30 to $75. While some of the higher-end products may seem pricey, the exceptional quality and unique flavors make them well worth the investment.

What Sets Them Apart?: What sets Vermont Farmstead Cheese Company apart is their commitment to artisanal craftsmanship and sustainability. They produce a wide variety of cheeses, including the award-winning Lille, a Brie-style cheese, and the flavorful Governor’s Cheddar. Their approach to cheese-making combines traditional methods with innovative techniques, resulting in cheeses with rich, complex flavors. The farmstead also places a strong emphasis on community and environmental stewardship, using locally sourced milk and sustainable farming practices. This dedication to quality, innovation, and sustainability makes Vermont Farmstead Cheese Company a standout in the region.

Conclusion

Cheese shops in Vermont offer a delightful journey through the state's rich dairy heritage and stunning landscapes. Jasper Hill Farm in Northern Vermont is perfect for those seeking innovative cheese-making and serene farm settings, renowned for their cave-aged soft cheeses. Cabot Creamery in Central Vermont provides a family-friendly atmosphere with award-winning cheddars and a deep community spirit. Grafton Village Cheese in Southern Vermont captivates with its historic charm and exceptional aged cheddars, while Vermont Farmstead Cheese Company in Western Vermont blends tradition with innovation, offering a variety of artisanal cheeses in a picturesque setting. Each shop provides a unique experience, making Vermont a must-visit destination for any cheese enthusiast.

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