In the world of cheesemaking, summer is the golden season. Abundant grasses, clover and herbs give milk phenomenal flavor. And since goats and sheep only give milk in the spring and summer, you can enjoy their cheeses at the height of freshness.
We like our summer cheese plates to move in a creamier direction, complemented with crisp cool grapes, olives, almonds, honey and stone fruit.
Here are a few fantastic summer cheese ideas.
Fresh, sweet and incredibly creamy, Quadrello di Bufala is a classic Italian cheese made from water buffalo milk. A handful of Roman hazelnuts, a glass of round, jammy malbec, a good beach read and you're set.
Here’s a hard-to-find goat’s milk cheddar that’s perfect for summer — Ashley Chase Estates Royal Goat Cheddar. Slightly sharp, it’s crafted in the traditional cheddar style from western coastal England, and pairs well with sliced grapes, a crunchy baguette and a spicy pinot noir.
Award-winning Humboldt Fog from Cypress Grove Chevre is a summer cheese rock star. Lush, creamy, soft-ripened goat’s milk with a subtle tanginess calls out for fresh berries, a drizzle of honey, a paper-thin slice of prosciutto and a pale ale.
Look for earthy notes in buttery, creamy Nancy’s Hudson Valley Camembert from Old Chatham Sheepherding Company. A uniquely American combination of sheep and cow’s milk, it loves to be paired with a dry bubbly, tangy chutney and balsamic-drizzled summer salads. Enjoy with fresh raspberries for the perfect dessert!
Summer is a great time for cheese. On your next Whole Foods Market visit, please stop by and chat with one of our cheesemongers. They are experts who love talking cheese and will happily give you a taste of any of our cheeses!
And don’t forget to come taste and sample at our next Cheese Nights. This one focuses on Summer’s Best Cheeses. Tuesday, June 24th, 6:00 pm—7:30 pm. It’s free! Contact your local store for event details opens in a new tab.
What’s your favorite summer cheese? Tell us about it in the comments below.
