Ontario Trio

Maple Cheddar

Milford, ON
www.blackrivercheese.com

Situated in beautiful Prince Edward County, Black River Cheese has been making cheese for over 100 years. Because of their proximity to the shipping ports of Lake Ontario and the opening of new markets in England, local farmers originally began producing Cheddar for export in 1901. Using only the freshest milk from nearby farms, Black River grew its cheese making reputation while supporting the local farm industry. Mere months after its centennial anniversary, a fire destroyed most of the plant and inventory. The company, born out of adversity, is bravely rising again. Black River cheese makers have never strayed from their tradition of superior quality. It is in this spirit that they have launched their Maple Cheddar, a blend of medium aged Cheddar with local maple syrup. A match made in heaven perhaps, especially when complemented with fresh or dried fruits, apple cider, sparkling wine or even a Canadian Whisky. By the fireplace, of course…

Teamiskaming

Thornloe, ON
www.thornloecheese.ca

Cheddar curds may have made Thornloe Cheese famous, but it is old-fashioned quality cheese making, clean northern air and happy cows that have kept this farmer-owned co-op on the cheese map. And lucky for us, we found more than just curds. Among the Cheddars, Mozzarella, Swiss and, yes, even artisan butter, you will find a jewel called Thornloe Temiskaming. Inspired by the Portuguese St. George cheese, Temiskaming is a hard cheese, golden in colour with tiny pinholes in the paste. Ripened for three months, Temiskaming offers a hint of sharpness but envelops you in a mellow creaminess like a warm cashmere blanket. Versatile as a grating cheese, a grilled-cheese marvel and pretty on a cheese board. Pair with a full-bodied red or an Amontillado sherry.

Extra Mild Cheddar

Campbellford, ON
www.empirecheese.ca

A farmer-owned cooperative dating back to the 1870s, Empire Cheese is known for its fresh, squeaky cheese curds, Cheddar and extensive line of festive flavoured specialty cheeses. Empire continues to make cheese the traditional way in open vats with natural ingredients and no additives. Much of the cheese is sold right at the factory and through various outlets in Eastern Ontario. These days, Empire has something else to be proud of: its Extra-Mild Cheddar has won a 1st place ribbon at The Royal Winter Fair 2009. Empire’s Extra Mild Cheddar has a silky, smooth texture with a slight nutty aroma and a mellow, lactic flavour. It is made with whole milk to give it its characteristic richness. Enjoy this champion with light wheat ale or unoaked Chardonnay.