Monday, January 30, 2012

The Marin County Cheese Trail

In the rolling hills of West Marin County are the fields in which livestock graze and produce the quality milk used by the local cheese companies. The wine industry always comes to mind when in this region, but cheese making might just be a close second. In what is known as The Marin and Sonoma Cheese Trail are many good cheese companies, they range from small artisanal to much larger ones that produce on a national scale. A good place to start the tour is Marin French Cheese, which just happens to be the oldest cheese making company in America, dating back to 1865. They specialize in making French style Brie and Camembert. It's worth a visit with lots of other cheese selections and a nice picnic ground to enjoy them in. Another cheese maker a few miles down the country road is the Nicasio Valley Cheese Company, it is a smaller operation with a more artisan style variety. Then of course there is the now famous Cowgirl Creamery located in the small coastal town of Point Reyes Station. This cheese company has become the grand queen of quality artisanal cheeses and a personal favorite of mine. I recommend trying the wash rind Red Hawk. It is amazing with its stinky musty aroma and creamy soft interior; wow it's really good! 
There are so many other good cheese companies and with good local wines nearby and it is perfect for a weekend road trip.

Marin French Cheese Company
7500 Red Hill Road, Petaluma,CA 94952

Nicasio Valley Cheese Company
5300 Nicasio Valley Road, Nicasio, CA 94946

Cowgirl Creamery
80 Fourth Street, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956

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