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Benedictine

Producer
Carr Valley Cheese Co
Country
United States
Region
Wisconsin
Size
8 ins diameter, 3 ins high
Weight
10 lbs
Website
www.carrvalleycheese.com
Milk
Goat
Sheep
Cow
Classification
Semi Soft
Rennet
Vegetable
Rind
None
Style
Alpine-style
Cheddar-like
Gouda-like

Located in the rolling hills of central Wisconsin, Carr Valley Cheese remains one of Wisconsin's most traditional cheese plants, famous for its Wisconsin cheddar varieties, as well as a host of more modern cheeses. Now owned and operated by Sid Cook, Carr Valley was founded in 1902, but the Cook family has been making cheese since 1883.  

Sid is a fourth generation cheesemaker. The first cheese plant that his father operated was in Irish Valley, where Sid worked with his father for several years before taking over the business in the mid 70's.  During this time Sid also learned how to make his own cultures from his father and grandfather.   He and his brother made Wisconsin-style cheddar at that location for ten years, and Sid eventually purchased Carr Valley in 1986 and another cheesemaking facility in 1991, with a layout that would allow for more flexibility and the development of more styles of cheese.  

Carr Valley now sources cow's milk from 40 farms, all located within 20 miles of the plant, and each milking no more than 70 cows. Sheep's milk comes largely from one dairy and goat's milk from a group of eight farms in the Green Bay area. Carr Valley makes over 65 different cheeses.  

Inspired by the traditional monastic style cheeses emanating from Europe, Benedictine is made from a blend of sheep, goat and cow’s milk.  After the wheels are formed, cheeses are transferred to an aging cellar, where they are regularly washed and turned over a period of twelve weeks.  

 

Tasting Notes

The washing process encourages the development of various cultures present in the cheese, resulting in a complex flavor profile. The texture of Benedictine is pliant, firm and pale ivory in color.

Pairings

Good pairings include Pinot Gris, Cabernet and Belgian style ales.

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