Whew. 2020 is officially behind us. Although it was a year full of unprecedented stress and turmoil, there were also some good things that helped us get through it all—like delicious cheeses. ICYMI, we improvised for this year’s Best Cheeses issue, rounding up some of the best cheeses of 2020 based on our own categories (like “best guilty-pleasure cheese” and “best cheeses to pair with bubbles”). And amidst all the hardship this year, folks managed to show up for small businesses when they needed it most. So let’s keep the love and support for cheesemakers and mongers going in 2021 and beyond.

In other cheese news: 

• Despite the increased nationwide need for dry ice from vaccine companies and cheesemakers alike, dry ice producers say they are confident they’ll be able to supply the dairy industry and pharmaceutical companies alike with the amount needed to ship all products needed in the coming months.
• If you love Rogue Creamery’s award-winning Rogue River Blue, you have to try the new exclusive reserve edition from Murray’s Cheese, which is aged for four years with a more intense and savory flavor profile. Grab a taste now before it’s gone.
• Oh look, another reason to keep our cheese habits alive in 2021: A new study showed that wine and cheese consumption may help slow cognitive decline. The team analyzed participants’ consumption of many foods, like meat, cheese, and produce. Cheese—by far—was shown to be the most protective food against age-related cognitive problems, and red wine was also shown to be related to improvements in cognitive function. We’ll eat (and drink) to that!
• BelGioioso released three new cheeses to enjoy this year: Artigiano Mocha, an aged raw cow’s milk cheese coated in cocoa and Italian espresso; Stracciatella, the rich and creamy burrata filling now available in cup-size containers; and American Grana Snacking Cheese, individually wrapped portions of ultra-aged parmesan with lots of flavor and protein to cure your midday cravings.
• The holidays have passed and winter is in full swing. Need something to look forward to? Sign up for Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese’s After Hours virtual cheese and chocolate tasting, which will guide you through sweet and savory pairings that are bound to lift your spirits.
• Chocolate not your thing? The Maine Cheese Guild is hosting a virtual Fondue For Two event—led by Chef Ciana Godin of Alice and Lulu’s—who will be using all Maine-made cheese in her gooey recipes that you can try at home. 
• Dairy-alternative brand So Delicious just launched a plant-based cheese line, including slices, spreads, and shreds that’ll fit any at-home dairy-free recipe.
• After a year of unexpected struggles, Kroger shared the top trending foods of 2020 that helped get us through it all. (Unsurprisingly, cheese, wine, and chocolate made the list.) Kroger also announced 2021 food trend predictions. According to that, we can expect a year of comfort food dishes, at-home meals, and sustainable ingredients.

Monica Petrucci

Monica is Culture's former Social Media Editor. Coming from a formaggio-obsessed Italian family, she was very excited to combine her passions for cheese and writing at Culture. She loves experimenting in the kitchen and pairing wine and cheese in her spare time.