Crowley Cheese Factory

Crowley Cheese Factory

The Crowley Cheese Factory is a historic cheese factory located in Healdville, Vermont. It is one of the oldest cheese factories in the United States and has been in operation since 1882. The factory is known for producing high-quality, artisanal cheese using traditional methods.

History

The Crowley Cheese Factory was founded by Winfield Crowley in 1882. Winfield, a skilled cheesemaker, established the factory with the goal of producing exceptional cheese using locally sourced milk. The factory quickly gained a reputation for its delicious cheddar cheese, which became popular not only in Vermont but also across the country.

Over the years, the Crowley Cheese Factory has remained a family-owned and operated business. It has passed down through several generations of the Crowley family, each contributing their expertise and knowledge to maintain the factory's tradition of excellence.

Cheese Production

The cheese production process at the Crowley Cheese Factory follows traditional methods that have been refined over the years. The factory uses only the finest quality milk from local dairy farms, ensuring the cheese's exceptional taste and texture.

The milk is first pasteurized to eliminate any harmful bacteria while preserving the natural flavors. It is then cultured with carefully selected bacteria strains, which contribute to the cheese's unique flavor profile. The curds are formed by adding rennet to the milk, and then they are cut and stirred to release the whey.

After the whey is drained, the curds are pressed into molds to shape the cheese. The cheese is then aged in temperature-controlled rooms for a specific period, allowing it to develop its distinct flavor and texture. The aging process can range from a few months to several years, depending on the desired flavor profile.

Recognition and Awards

The Crowley Cheese Factory has received numerous accolades and awards for its exceptional cheese. It has been recognized by cheese connoisseurs and experts for its commitment to quality and traditional cheesemaking techniques.

In 2019, the Crowley Cheese Factory's aged cheddar cheese won the prestigious "Best Cheddar Cheese" award at the Vermont Cheese Festival. This recognition further solidified the factory's reputation as a producer of top-quality artisanal cheese.

Visit the Crowley Cheese Factory

Visitors to Healdville, Vermont, have the opportunity to visit the Crowley Cheese Factory and witness the cheesemaking process firsthand. The factory offers guided tours where visitors can learn about the history of the factory, observe the cheesemaking process, and sample a variety of their delicious cheeses.

See Also

• Cheddar cheese
• Artisanal cheese
• Vermont Cheese Festival