The Best Cheeses in Marin County
August 30, 2024
When it comes to cheese, Marin County is a veritable wonderland. Here, nestled between rolling hills and misty coastlines, artisanal cheesemakers craft some of the finest cheeses you’ll find anywhere west of the Mississippi. If you’re looking for world-class edible art, you’ve come to the right place.
At the Marin Agricultural Land Trust (MALT), we’re not just cheese enthusiasts – we’re guardians of the very land that makes these incredible cheeses possible. Our mission to permanently preserve Marin’s agricultural land ensures that the rich pastures and dairy farms producing these world-class cheeses will thrive for generations. Our work helps maintain the delicate balance between nature and agriculture that gives Marin’s cheeses their distinctive character.
As stewards of this landscape, the MALT staff has developed a particularly refined palate and understanding of where these incredible flavors come from. We’ve walked the fields, met the animals, and worked closely with the passionate cheesemakers who transform Marin’s lush grasses into delicious, speciality cheeses. But don’t just take our word for it – the only way to truly appreciate the diversity and quality of Marin’s cheeses is to try them all!
To help you on your cheesy adventure, we’ve compiled a list of our staff’s favorite local cheeses. Get ready for a mouthwatering journey through Marin’s dairy delights:
“Point Reyes Toma Truffle reminds me of aperitivo in Tuscany and pairs perfectly with any wine. My personal favorite is a Toma Truffle grilled cheese with a glass of Chianti.”
– Karisma Wilson, MALT
America’s oldest cheese company, producing delightful Breakfast cheese, Camembert, and Truffle Brie. While they don’t offer direct online sales, their cheeses can be found in many local markets and specialty stores.
This family-owned creamery produces organic farmstead cheeses like the popular Foggy Morning and Tomino. Order online for direct shipping or find them at many Bay Area markets and groceries.
Their Toma Truffle, Quinta, and Original Blue are crowd-pleasers, offering rich flavors that pair beautifully with wine. Order online for home delivery, or check out their collaboration with Rossotti Ranch for meat and cheese packages.
Known for their sustainable farming practices and exquisite goat and sheep milk cheeses. Don’t miss Kenne, Teleeka, Atika, and Koto’la (which our staff swears is better than feta!). Find their products at the local farmers markets and a few local shops.
Located just over the Sonoma border, their award-winning Estero Gold is a firm, aged cheese with a nutty flavor. Find their cheeses at farmers markets and specialty stores throughout the Bay Area.
As you embark on your Marin cheese journey, remember that each cheese tells a story of the land, the animals, and the passionate artisans who craft these incredible products. The diverse microclimates and lush pastures of Marin County contribute to the unique flavors and characteristics of each cheese.
So, whether you’re a longtime cheese aficionado or just beginning to explore the world of artisanal cheeses, Marin County offers an unparalleled variety of flavors and textures to discover. From creamy bries to tangy blues, from delicate goat cheeses to robust aged varieties, there’s truly something for every palate.
We encourage you to support these local cheesemakers by trying their products, visiting their creameries (when possible), and sharing your favorites with friends and family. After all, good cheese is meant to be shared!
The California Cheese Trail
Looking for more delicious adventure?
We highly recommend exploring the California Cheese Trail. This self-guided tour takes you through the heart of Marin’s cheese country (as well as other parts of the Golden State), allowing you to visit local creameries, meet the cheesemakers, and sample their incredible products firsthand. The Cheese Trail offers a unique opportunity to connect with the land, the animals, and the artisans behind the state’s world-class cheeses. Discover more.