Shepherd's Hope

Southeastern Minnesota -- one of the richest agricultural regions of the state -- is home to Shepherd's Way Farms where 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 when fire destroyed a nursery barn and 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.

Shepherd’s Hope is a unique mild, fresh cheese with a gentle citrus note at the finish. It has a silky, mouth-coating texture not unlike that of an Italian Crescenza, but holds its round shape and is easily cut. It is best paired with a crisp wine or mildly tart condiment such as candied cherries.

Available seasonally.

Farm / Company: Shepherd's Way

Cheesemaker: Jodi Read

Proprietor: Steven & Jodi Read

Affineur: Jodi Read

City, State: Nerstrand, MN

Region: Midwest

Country: USA

Milk Type: Sheep

Milk Treatment: Pasteurized

Rennet: Vegetarian

Rind: None