Tucked away in the lush green hills of our beloved Crooked Pines Farm is the Crooked Pines Creamery, where we invite visitors to explore the art and science of artisanal cheesemaking. Through our engaging workshops, guests can dive headfirst into the world of handcrafted dairy, learning directly from our experienced cheesemakers as they guide you through the process, from curd to cave.
Cheesemaking Workshops
At the heart of the Crooked Pines Creamery lies our commitment to sharing the passion and expertise of small-batch cheesemaking. We offer a range of workshops catered to participants of all ages and skill levels, ensuring there’s something for every cheese enthusiast.
Workshop Offerings
Whether you’re a curious beginner or an aspiring fromager, our workshops cover an extensive array of cheesemaking techniques and styles. Guests can learn the fundamentals of soft-ripened cheeses, like the rich and creamy Brie-style “Crooked Face.” For the more adventurous, we delve into the art of washed-rind cheeses, uncovering the pungent, aromatic flavors of our signature “Funky Monkey.”
For those with a penchant for aged varieties, our workshops on hard and semi-hard cheeses showcase the nuanced profiles of our Gouda-inspired “Twisted Sister” and the complex, blue-veined “Crooked Cheddar.” Participants will also have the opportunity to explore the world of specialty cheeses, from the tangy, ash-coated “Crescent Moon” to the nutty, beer-washed “Ramblin’ Man.”
Cheese Varieties
Artisanal Cheeses
At Crooked Pines, we take great pride in honoring traditional cheesemaking techniques while also putting our own unique spin on classic styles. Our team of skilled artisans meticulously crafts each wheel, using only the freshest, locally-sourced milk from our own herd of Jersey cows.
Specialty Cheeses
Alongside our interpretation of beloved European varieties, we also celebrate the innovative spirit of American cheesemaking. Our workshops delve into the creation of unique, small-batch cheeses that showcase the terroir of our region, such as the floral, herbaceous “Wildflower” or the rich, earthy “Pines and Peaks.”
Aged Cheeses
For those with a penchant for the complexity of aged cheeses, our workshops explore the art of affinage, the patient process of nurturing wheels to perfection. Participants will learn how factors like temperature, humidity, and time shape the development of our cave-aged offerings, like the nutty, crystalline “Rustic Rind” and the tangy, whiskey-washed “Midnight Moon.”
Workshop Curriculum
Hands-On Cheesemaking
At the heart of our workshops lies the opportunity for participants to get their hands dirty – literally. Under the guidance of our expert cheesemakers, guests will dive into the fundamental techniques of cheesemaking, from coagulating the milk and cutting the curd to molding and salting the wheels. This hands-on experience allows participants to truly understand the care and craftsmanship that goes into each bite.
Aging and Maturation
Delving deeper into the world of artisanal cheese, our workshops explore the critical role of affinage, the art of aging and refining cheeses. Guests will learn about the various environmental factors, from temperature and humidity to microbial interactions, that shape the development of a cheese’s texture, aroma, and flavor profile.
Flavor Profiles
Throughout the workshops, participants will engage in guided tastings, honing their sensory perception as they explore the diverse flavor notes and mouthfeel characteristics of our cheeses. From the grassy, herbaceous nuances of our fresh chèvre to the robust, umami complexity of our aged Goudas, these tastings provide a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind each creation.
Participant Experience
Interactive Learning
At Crooked Pines, we believe that the best way to learn about cheesemaking is by doing. Our workshops are designed to be highly interactive, allowing participants to actively engage with the process, whether it’s measuring ingredients, monitoring temperature and humidity, or hand-turning aging wheels.
Sensory Exploration
In addition to the hands-on components, our workshops also emphasize the importance of sensory exploration. Guests are encouraged to use all of their senses – sight, smell, touch, and taste – to fully immerse themselves in the cheesemaking experience, developing a nuanced understanding of the various textures, aromas, and flavors that emerge throughout the process.
Culinary Appreciation
Beyond the technical aspects of cheesemaking, our workshops also aim to cultivate a deeper appreciation for cheese as a culinary art form. Participants will learn about the roles of terroir, aging, and affinage in shaping a cheese’s unique character, as well as how to pair their handcrafted creations with complementary foods and beverages.
Creamery Overview
Sustainable Practices
At the Crooked Pines Creamery, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to eco-friendly farming practices, using renewable energy sources and minimizing waste throughout our cheesemaking process. By sourcing our milk from our own herd of pasture-raised Jersey cows, we ensure that our cheeses reflect the rich, natural flavors of our local terroir.
Community Engagement
Beyond the walls of our creamery, we are deeply invested in our local community. Through our educational workshops and public events, we aim to foster a greater appreciation for the artisanal food movement and the vital role that small-scale producers play in sustaining our region’s agricultural heritage. By sharing our knowledge and passion, we hope to inspire the next generation of cheesemakers and food enthusiasts.
Artisanal Tradition
At the Crooked Pines Creamery, we are proud to uphold the artisanal traditions of cheesemaking, drawing inspiration from both time-honored techniques and innovative approaches. Our workshops offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in this rich culinary culture, learning directly from the skilled hands that craft each wheel of cheese with care and precision. Whether you’re a seasoned cheese connoisseur or a curious beginner, we invite you to join us on a delectable journey through the world of artisanal cheesemaking.
