Wisconsin Cheese Varieties - From Cheddar to Gouda

Wisconsin's cheese making history spans more than 175 years. The state produces over 600 types of cheese, making it America's largest cheese producer. Let's look at the most popular Wisconsin cheeses and what makes them special.

Wisconsin Cheddar: The Classic Choice

Wisconsin cheddar stands out for its rich, sharp taste. Cheese makers age it from a few months to over 15 years. The longer it ages, the sharper it gets. White and orange cheddars taste the same - the orange color comes from a natural coloring called annatto.

Wisconsin Swiss: More Than Just Holes

Wisconsin Swiss cheese has a mild, sweet flavor. The famous holes form during the making process when bacteria create tiny gas bubbles. Larger holes mean stronger flavor. Wisconsin cheese makers often age their Swiss for at least 60 days.

Colby: Wisconsin's Original Cheese

Created in Colby, Wisconsin in 1885, this cheese is softer than cheddar but just as tasty. It goes through a special washing process that gives it a milder flavor and more moisture than cheddar.

Wisconsin Gouda: Dutch Inspiration, American Craft

Wisconsin Gouda offers a sweet, rich taste that gets stronger with age. Young Gouda is smooth and mild, while aged versions have small crystals that add crunch and deeper flavors.

Fresh Cheese Curds: The State's Favorite Snack

These squeaky bits of fresh cheese are made daily across Wisconsin. They're best eaten within hours of making. The famous "squeak" happens when fresh curds rub against your teeth.

Brick Cheese: A True Wisconsin Original

Named for the brick-shaped molds used to make it, this cheese starts mild and gets stronger with age. Wisconsin cheese makers still press it with real bricks, just like they did 100 years ago.

Muenster: More Than Meets the Eye

Wisconsin Muenster has a soft texture and orange rind. Its mild flavor works well in cooking or on sandwiches. The orange edge comes from paprika rubbed on during aging.

Making Process and Quality

Wisconsin cheese makers follow strict rules to ensure quality. Each batch of milk is tested before use. Temperature control and timing must be exact for the best results.

Storing Wisconsin Cheese

To keep Wisconsin cheese fresh, wrap it in wax paper and then loose plastic wrap. This lets it breathe while staying moist. Most cheeses taste best at room temperature.

Pairing Wisconsin Cheeses

Each cheese type pairs well with different foods and drinks. Aged cheddar goes well with apples, while Swiss matches perfectly with ham. Gouda pairs nicely with red wine or beer.

Wisconsin Cheese Awards

Wisconsin cheeses win hundreds of awards each year. The state's cheese makers often take top spots in both U.S. and world competitions, showing their skill and dedication.

Buying Quality Wisconsin Cheese

Look for the Wisconsin Cheese seal when buying. This mark means the cheese meets strict state standards for quality and authentic production methods.

Visit Lake Wales Cheese Shoppe Today

At Lake Wales Cheese Shoppe, we variety of Wisconsin cheeses. Our staff can help you choose the perfect cheese for any occasion.

Stop by our store to sample these amazing Wisconsin cheeses. Contact Lake Wales Cheese Shoppe at 863-317-9847 to learn about our current selection and special orders.

Visit Lake Wales Cheese Shoppe to bring the taste of Wisconsin to your table. We're proud to offer these outstanding cheeses to our Central Florida community.