Cheese Stories & Features

APRIL 02, 2026

Pasilla Chile BellaVitano: Wisconsin's Spicy Italian-Inspired Masterpiece

Imagine biting into a piece of aged Parmesan and discovering hints of smoky chile and sweet tamarind dancing on your tongue. That's the magic of Pasilla Chile BellaVitano, a cheese that proves American cheesemakers can create something entirely new while honoring Old World traditions. This Wisconsin-made wonder starts as a crystalline, nutty base cheese and transforms into something extraordinary through the ancient art of hand-rubbing spiced rinds. Whether you're planning a sophisticated cheese board or looking for something to elevate your next grilled cheese sandwich, this "American Original" delivers complexity that will surprise even seasoned cheese lovers.

APRIL 01, 2026

The Secret Science Behind Jarlsberg: How Norway's University-Born Cheese Conquered the World

What do you get when Norwegian dairy scientists cross Dutch Gouda techniques with Swiss Emmental fermentation? Jarlsberg - a cheese so successful it became Norway's third-largest export and one of the food industry's most closely guarded trade secrets. Unlike traditional European cheeses bound by regional designations, this university-born marvel travels the world while maintaining its mysterious bacterial culture.

MARCH 31, 2026

The Sweet Science Behind Marieke Honey Clover Gouda: How Dutch Tradition Meets Wisconsin Excellence

When Dutch cheesemaker Marieke Penterman brought her family's centuries-old Gouda recipes to Wisconsin, she didn't just start a business, she launched a cheese revolution. Her Honey Clover Gouda has earned international acclaim, outcompeting thousands of entries from 25 countries. What makes this farmstead creation so extraordinary? The answer lies in the perfect marriage of Old World techniques and New World terroir, creating a cheese that's both familiar and revolutionary.

MARCH 30, 2026

Teahive: The Earl Grey-Rubbed Cheddar That's Redefining American Cheese

Imagine biting into a piece of cheese that tastes like afternoon tea and feels like silk on your tongue. That's Teahive, a remarkable creation from Utah's Beehive Cheese Company that's been turning heads in the artisan cheese world since its debut. This isn't your typical flavored cheese where ingredients are mixed into the curd. Instead, Teahive gets its distinctive character from organic Earl Grey tea rubbed onto its rind when it's just one day old, creating a flavor journey from citrusy exterior to creamy, buttery center.

MARCH 29, 2026

Somerdale Wensleydale with Lemon and Honey: A Sweet Slice of Yorkshire Heritage

Imagine biting into a piece of cheesecake that somehow maintains the crumbly texture of fresh cheese curds. That's the magic of Somerdale Wensleydale with Lemon and Honey, a cheese that bridges the gap between traditional British dairy craft and modern confectionery innovation. This isn't just another flavored cheese – it's a testament to nearly 900 years of Yorkshire cheesemaking tradition, enhanced with zesty lemon curd and golden honey that would make even the most discerning dessert lover swoon.

MARCH 28, 2026

The Complete Guide to Zanetti Grana Padano: Italy's Most Beloved Hard Cheese

When you bite into a piece of Zanetti Grana Padano, you're tasting nearly 900 years of Italian cheesemaking tradition. This isn't just another hard cheese, it's the world's most produced DOP (Protected Designation of Origin) cheese, with over 5 million wheels fire-branded annually. But what makes this particular wheel from Zanetti so special? The answer lies in the unique terroir of Northern Italy's Po Valley, where ancient monastic techniques meet modern precision.

MARCH 27, 2026

The 2026 World Cheese Champions That Will Change Your Shopping Forever

The world's most prestigious cheese competition just wrapped up in Madison, Wisconsin, and the results are reshaping everything we thought we knew about global dairy excellence. With over 3,300 entries from 25 countries battling for supremacy, the 2026 World Championship Cheese Contest delivered surprises that will influence your cheese counter for years to come.

MARCH 26, 2026

The Golden Treasure of Woerden: Reypenaer Aged 1 Year Gouda

If you've ever bitten into a piece of aged Gouda and felt those satisfying crunchy crystals pop between your teeth, you've experienced one of cheese's most delightful surprises. But not all aged Goudas are created equal. The Reypenaer Aged 1 Year represents the pinnacle of Dutch cheesemaking tradition, where time, terroir, and technique converge to create something truly extraordinary. This isn't mass-produced cheese aged in sterile facilities. This is artisanal craftsmanship that honors centuries of Dutch dairy heritage while delivering flavors that will transform your understanding of what Gouda can be.

MARCH 25, 2026

Red Dragon: The Welsh Cheese That Conquered the World

You've probably spotted it in the cheese case: that distinctive red-waxed wheel dotted with dark mustard seeds. Red Dragon cheese looks like something from a medieval feast, and in many ways, it is. This isn't just another flavored cheddar. It's a modern interpretation of Welsh culinary tradition that has become one of Britain's most successful cheese exports. Whether you know it as Red Dragon or its Welsh name Y Fenni (pronounced "uh-VEN-ee"), this cheese tells a story of cultural pride, industrial innovation, and the power of bold flavors.

MARCH 24, 2026

Unlocking the Sunny Flavor of Murray's Irish Cheddar: A Timeless Treasure from County Wexford

Imagine savoring a cheddar that transports you straight to Ireland's sunlit pastures, crafted by farmers who have worked those lands for decades. Murray's Irish Cheddar embodies the taste of County Wexford, with creamy richness and a sharp bite that’s utterly irresistible.

MARCH 23, 2026

Discover Barely Buzzed: The Utah Cheese That’s Buzzing with Flavor and Flair

What if your favorite cheddar could surprise you with hints of coffee and lavender? Meet Barely Buzzed, a Utah gem that’s changing the game for American artisan cheeses—ready to delight your palate and elevate your cheese board.

MARCH 22, 2026

Old Croc Grand Reserve: Australia’s Boldly Aged Cheddar That Bites Back

If you think cheddar is just a simple, everyday cheese, think again. The Old Croc Grand Reserve Cheddar proves that with time, care, and a dash of Australian grit, cheddar can develop into an extraordinary, bold experience. From grassy pastures in Victoria to your cheese board here in Pagosa Springs, this vintage cheddar offers a depth of flavor and sophistication that’s worth savoring slowly.

MARCH 21, 2026

Murray's Raclette: The Science Behind Switzerland's Most Meltable Cheese

You've probably seen it at parties: that dramatic moment when molten cheese cascades from a heated wheel onto waiting potatoes and pickles. But Murray's Raclette is far more than Instagram-worthy theater. This semi-soft Alpine cheese represents a fascinating marriage of Old World tradition and modern dairy science, where French mountain milk meets New York City cave aging to create the ultimate melting cheese. What makes Murray's version special isn't just its pedigree, it's the precise control of moisture, pH, and surface bacteria that transforms a humble wheel into liquid gold.

MARCH 20, 2026

California's Cheese Revolution: How 20 Years Transformed a Parking Lot Festival into a Global Phenomenon

Twenty years ago, a handful of cheesemakers gathered in a modest hotel parking lot in Petaluma to share their craft with curious locals. Fast-forward to 2026, and that small gathering has evolved into the California Artisan Cheese Festival, a premier international destination that attracts over 2,000 guests from nearly 30 states and multiple countries. This March, as the festival celebrates its 20th anniversary, it's not just marking two decades of great cheese; it's showcasing how California has become a global leader in sustainable dairy innovation, functional nutrition, and what industry experts call the "experiential economy." The transformation reflects a broader shift in how we think about food, farming, and community.

MARCH 19, 2026

America's First Cheese Champion: How Emilia D'Albero Conquered the World

For decades, American cheesemongers have been the underdogs of the global dairy world. While French fromagiers and Japanese cheese artisans commanded respect at international competitions, their American counterparts were often dismissed as novices in a field dominated by centuries-old European traditions. That all changed in 2025 when Emilia D'Albero became the first American to win gold at the Mondial du Fromage in Tours, France, the Olympics of cheese.

MARCH 18, 2026

How Point Reyes Farmstead’s Fennel Blue Took Gold at the 2026 World Cheese Championships

What does it take to claim gold at the world’s toughest cheese competition? Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Company turned heads, and taste buds, with their innovative Fennel Blue, a cheese that’s as complex as it is delicious. Let’s unravel the story behind this award-winning artisan gem and how it’s shaping the future of American cheese.

MARCH 17, 2026

Fennel Blue: Point Reyes’ Artisanal Blue Cheese Balancing Boldness and Botanical Flair

When was the last time a blue cheese surprised you? Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Company’s Fennel Blue is redefining what blue cheese can be, marrying the classic pungency of Penicillium roqueforti with the sweet, licorice-like notes of fennel seeds. Born in the foggy coastal hills of Marin County, this semi-soft cheese showcases not only technical mastery but a century-long family tradition of quality and sustainability.

MARCH 16, 2026

Discover Artikaas Youngsters Hickory Smoked Gouda: Where Dutch Tradition Meets American Smoke

If you’re on the lookout for a cheese that combines centuries of Dutch cheesemaking tradition with the rich, smoky flair beloved by American palates, Artikaas Youngsters Hickory Smoked Gouda deserves a spot on your shopping list. Whether melting it over a burger or building a gourmet snack board, this cheese delivers a unique taste experience that’s both familiar and refreshingly different.

MARCH 15, 2026

Unlocking Murray’s Cave Aged Gruyère: Swiss Tradition Meets Artisanal Excellence

If you’ve ever wondered what makes Gruyère such a beloved cheese on both the table and in the kitchen, it’s time to dive into the fascinating journey behind Murray’s Cave Aged Gruyère. From Swiss alpine meadows to carefully controlled cheese caves in New York, and now available right here in Pagosa Springs at Murray’s Cheese inside City Market, this cheese embodies centuries of tradition refined by modern expertise. Ready to explore what makes it distinctive, delicious, and the perfect partner for your next wine or beer pairing? Let’s unwrap the story of Gruyère’s rich heritage and get practical tips for savoring this alpine treasure.

MARCH 14, 2026

Unlocking the Coastal Crunch: How Murray’s Aged English Cheddar Brings Dorset’s Terroir to Your Table

If you think all cheddars taste the same, think again. Murray’s Aged English Cheddar carries centuries of Dorset’s coastal heritage in every crumbly bite. This isn’t just cheese, it’s a sensory journey grounded in English terroir, modern cheesemaking precision, and a texture that literally crunches with character.

JANUARY 02, 2026

The Colorful Story of Blue Shropshire Cheese: A Slice of Culinary History

Dare to discover the enigma behind the orange hue of Blue Shropshire cheese, a delightful treasure waiting on cheese boards everywhere!

NOVEMBER 25, 2025

The Velvet and the Stone: An Exploration of Sartori Merlot BellaVitano®

If you were to document your love affair with cheese, the Sartori Merlot BellaVitano® would be a passionate, unforgettable chapter. This cheese, ensconced in the velvety texture of Merlot and the unmistakable firmness of BellaVitano®, creates a dynamic harmony of flavors. Embark on this gastronomic journey and unveil the mystery of this unique blend.

OCTOBER 19, 2025

Rustic Red by Westminster: A Cheese Lover''s Delight

What if a cheese could narrate a story? Not any tale, but one interlaced with heritage, artfulness, terroir, and a dash of serendipity. Let’s unbox the layers of Rustic Red by Westminster, shall we?

OCTOBER 17, 2025

Smoked to Perfection: Discovering Westminster Smoked Cheddar’s Rich Heritage and Flavor

If you think cheddar is just cheddar, think again. Westminster Smoked Cheddar takes this beloved classic to a whole new level with its distinctive smoke-infused flavor and artisanal craftsmanship. Whether you’re shopping in Pagosa Springs or exploring local cheese shops like Murray's Cheese in City Market, this smoky sensation offers an unforgettable experience for your palate.

OCTOBER 17, 2025

A Portrait in Blue: The Enigmatic Charm of Rogue Creamery's Caveman Blue

If you’ve ever wandered through Murray's Cheese inside City Market in Pagosa Springs, you might have glimpsed the strikingly unique Rogue Creamery Caveman Blue. This cheese isn’t just another blue—it's a bold statement of craftsmanship and character, a fromage that’s as rugged and nuanced as the Colorado mountains themselves. What makes Caveman Blue such a fascinating cheese? Let’s pull back the rind and dig into the story, flavor, and experience that define this beloved blue cheese.

OCTOBER 16, 2025

The Velvet Revolution: Exploring the Luxurious Texture and Origin of Fromager d'Affinois Le Fromager

Imagine sinking your teeth into an irresistibly smooth, velvety cheese that melts like silk on your tongue. Fromager d'Affinois Le Fromager is just that—a decadently creamy treat with roots stretching from rustic French Alps cheesemaking to the rugged terroir of southwestern Colorado. Whether you're a local in Pagosa Springs or a visitor eager to taste the region's rich dairy heritage, this cheese invites you on a sensory journey that blends age-old tradition with contemporary wellness and craftsmanship.

OCTOBER 16, 2025

A Modern Marvel: Unwrapping the Allure of Fromager D'affinois With Garlic & Herb

If you're a cheese lover wandering the aisles of Murray's Cheese inside City Market in Pagosa Springs, you might have noticed a creamy gem called Fromager D'affinois With Garlic & Herb. But what exactly is this luscious cheese, and why should it earn a spot on your cheese board (or your dinner plate) tonight? Let’s dive into this smooth, rich, and aromatic marvel and uncover how to enjoy it—Pagosa style.

OCTOBER 14, 2025

Humboldt Fog: The Original American Original® That Captures the Spirit of Terroir

If you’ve ever been charmed by a creamy, tangy cheese with a distinctive line of edible ash running through its heart, you might already be acquainted with Humboldt Fog. But do you know the story behind this original American masterpiece? Join us as we journey from the foggy Northern California coasts to the heights of artisan cheesemaking, revealing why Humboldt Fog isn’t just a cheese—it’s a landmark in American cheese culture and a delicious celebration of place.

SEPTEMBER 21, 2025

Vintage Lot 18: Savoring the Excellence of Artikaas’s World-Champion 18-Month Gouda

If you think all Gouda cheeses are alike, it’s time to meet Vintage Lot 18 by Artikaas—a cheese that’s not just aged but elevated to world-champion status. This artisanal marvel, matured for 18 months, offers a captivating journey into the heart of expert cheesemaking, a taste of volcanic Colorado terroir, and a celebration of tradition and innovation. Whether you’re a cheese enthusiast or a curious foodie visiting Pagosa Springs, this cheese should be on your radar—and your palate.

SEPTEMBER 20, 2025

The Fiery Flavor of Sartori’s Pasilla Chile BellaVitano: A Taste Adventure from Pagosa Springs to Your Table

If you're a cheese lover with a penchant for a little heat, Sartori's Pasilla Chile BellaVitano might just be your new obsession. This cheese combines the robust nutty richness of BellaVitano with the smoky, complex kick of Pasilla chile, crafting a flavor profile that's both bold and nuanced. Whether you’re unpacking a picnic at Pagosa Springs or stocking your local Murray's Cheese at City Market, here’s everything you need to know about this fiery favorite.

SEPTEMBER 19, 2025

Unlocking Jarlsberg: The Sweet Science Behind Norway’s Nutty Treasure

Ever savored that mild, nutty cheese with the iconic holes and wondered what makes it so special? Jarlsberg is more than just a crowd-pleaser on your cheese board — it’s a fascinating blend of history, craftsmanship, and science. Whether you’re a cheese aficionado or a casual snacker visiting Pagosa Springs, dive into the layers behind this beloved cheese and discover how to enjoy it at its best.

SEPTEMBER 18, 2025

The King of Cheeses: Discovering Parmigiano Reggiano and Its Stewardship by Murray's Cheese in Pagosa Springs

Parmigiano Reggiano, often hailed as the 'King of Cheeses,' is a culinary treasure with centuries of heritage behind every nutty, savory bite. For residents and visitors of Pagosa Springs, Colorado, experiencing this cheese is now more accessible and expertly guided thanks to the curatorship of Murray's Cheese at City Market. What makes this cheese so regal, and how does its stewardship in your own mountain town shape your tasting experience? Let’s dive in.

SEPTEMBER 17, 2025

Discover the Fiery Flavor of Muenster Enchilado by Queso Campesino: A Spicy Tribute to Southwestern Heritage

If you think Muenster cheese is just a mild, creamy staple, think again. Muenster Enchilado by Queso Campesino offers a spirited twist that’s as fiery as the Colorado sun and as rooted in tradition as the landscapes around Pagosa Springs. From its handcrafted origins to its vibrant, spicy finish, this cheese invites you into a flavorful story of heritage, heat, and heart. Ready to spice up your cheese board?

SEPTEMBER 16, 2025

Decoding Old Croc Extra Sharp Cheddar: The Australian-American Cheesy Paradox You’ve Got to Taste

Imagine a cheese that wears two flags with pride—one foot in Australia’s sun-drenched pastures, the other in the time-honored tradition of American sharp cheddar craft. Old Croc Extra Sharp Cheddar isn’t just a cheese; it’s a saga of cultures, climates, and craftsmanship converging in a single block of bold flavor. Whether you’re a local in Pagosa Springs curious about pairing it with your next charcuterie board or a visitor seeking a taste that speaks of far-flung lands, this Australian-American paradox promises a rich, sharp adventure worth savoring.

SEPTEMBER 15, 2025

Old Croc Grand Reserve: Australia’s Bold and Legendary Cheddar

If you think all cheddars taste the same, it’s time to introduce your palate to Old Croc Grand Reserve. This Australian cheddar is packed with heritage, flavor, and a boldness that’ll keep you reaching for more. Whether you’re a cheese lover in Pagosa Springs or just passing through, get ready to explore an artisanal masterpiece with character as rich as its bite.

SEPTEMBER 14, 2025

Mastering the Greek Mezze: Your Curated Guide to Building an Exquisite Board

Imagine sitting beneath a sun-dappled olive tree in a cozy Aegean village, a board brimming with vibrant olives, creamy cheeses, smoky meats, and colorful dips laid out before you. The Greek mezze—more than just an appetizer—is a social ritual, a celebration of local ingredients and shared moments. Whether you’re hosting friends in your Pagosa Springs home or want to savor the Mediterranean vibe in Colorado’s mountain air, crafting the perfect mezze board invites you into a timeless culinary tradition, deliciously simple yet profoundly satisfying.

SEPTEMBER 14, 2025

Unveiling the Depths of Vega Sotuelamos 12-Month Manchego Añejo: Aged Spanish Delight

If you’ve ever savored a slice of Manchego cheese and wondered about the magic behind its nutty flavor and firm texture, the Vega Sotuelamos 12-Month Manchego Añejo offers an exquisite example to explore. This aged Spanish cheese combines tradition, terroir, and time to craft a cheese that’s not only a treat for your palate but also a story of centuries of heritage. Ready for a deep dive into what makes this Manchego so special? Let’s embark on a flavorful journey.

JULY 25, 2025

Curds of Civilization: Exploring the Rich History of Cheese

JULY 19, 2025

A Transatlantic Fusion: Discovering Beemster's Smoked Hatch Pepper Gouda

JULY 12, 2025

The Rattlesnake by Deer Creek Cheese: A Fiery Flavor Adventure Worth the Bite

JUNE 26, 2025

Discovering Murray's 1-Year Manchego: A Taste of Spanish Heritage in Pagosa Springs

JUNE 22, 2025

The Soul of the Queso: Discovering the Heart of Spanish Cheeses through Their Milk

JUNE 21, 2025

The Pagosa Springs Terroir: A Confluence of Fire, Water, and Curd

JUNE 20, 2025

A Distinction of Style and Identity: Why All Bries Are Bloomy Rinds, But Not All Bloomy Rinds Are Brie