Cypress Grove Humboldt Fog Cheese

Humboldt Fog is one of the most iconic and recognizable of American cheeses. In the 1970s in Humboldt County California, Mary Keehn adopted a couple goats for brush control. Two goats turned into more goats and more milk, leading to the founding of Cypress Grove Creamery, at a time when most Americans had never eaten goat cheese. Over 40 years later, Cypress Grove is a leader in American cheese, and makes exquisite goat cheeses from happy California goats.

Humboldt Fog is a goat cheese, with the rind like a brie. For aesthetic appeal (and inspired by French cheese Morbier), a flavorless layer of vegetable ash runs through the center. The result is a stunning dual-layer goat cheese of contrasting black and white. The center is dense and tangy with a lemony fresh flavor and clean finish. Just under the rind, you'll find the 'creamline': a layer of gooey, softer cheese with saltier, more savory flavors. Finally, the rind introduces a soft texture with notes of white mushroom. We won't read off the long list of awards this cheese has received, but trust us, they're numerous. This cheese is a true crowd-pleaser, both beautiful and impressive, yet approachable and delicious. No, it's not a brie, and no, it's not a blue cheese. But yes, it is truly magnificent.