Big Woods Blue
Located in southeastern Minnesota -- one of the richest agricultural regions of the state -- rests Shepherd's Way Farms. On this small farm, a family of six lovingly and tirelessly raises dairy sheep in order to make a variety of cheeses. In January 2005, Shepherd's Way Farms suffered an extreme hardship in the form of a very destructive fire. Destroying a nursery barn, the fire killed most of the flock. Aided by an immense outpouring of local support as well as support from various Slow Food communities, the family and farm are managing to produce great cheese as they slowly recover from the tragedy.
Big and beefy, Big Wood's Blue is creamy with an irresistible sharpness that is undeniably blue. However, blue cheese skeptics should not be afraid because the richness of the sheep's milk perfectly balances the intensity.
Farm / Company: Shepherd's Way
Cheesemaker: Jodi Read
Proprietor: Steven & Jodi Read
Affineur:
City, State: Nerstrand, Minnesota
Region: Midwest
Country: USA
Milk Type: Sheep
Milk Treatment: Pasteurized
Rennet: Vegetarian
Rind: No rind
Texture: Soft
Aging: 3 - 4 months
Size(s): 6-7 pounds
