Some cheeses become household names, while others introduce people to an entirely new flavor experience. Norseland brings together both ends of that spectrum, offering the familiar, nutty character of Jarlsberg alongside the sweet, caramel richness of Ski Queen—two Norwegian cheeses that continue to stand out in the specialty cheese category.
Established in 1978 to bring Jarlsberg to the United States, Norseland is the American subsidiary of TINE SA, Norway’s largest dairy cooperative. Today, the company represents a growing portfolio of specialty foods while staying rooted in generations of Norwegian farming traditions and a continued focus on quality, sustainability, and responsibly produced dairy.
For many cheese lovers, Jarlsberg is already a familiar favorite. Its signature holes, buttery texture, and mellow, nutty flavor have made it one of America’s most recognizable specialty cheeses. It’s equally at home on a cheeseboard as it is melted into grilled sandwiches, quiche, fondue, or other comfort-food classics, making it one of the more versatile cheeses in the specialty case.
Then there’s Ski Queen, a cheese that often surprises first-time tasters. Made from whey, it develops its distinctive brown color and rich caramel flavor naturally as the milk sugars slowly caramelize during production. The result is a smooth, sliceable cheese with a texture reminiscent of soft fudge.
Its story dates back more than 130 years to Norway’s Gudbrandsdalen Valley, where farmer Anne Hov famously enriched traditional whey cheese by adding cream during production. Her innovation created a richer cheese that became a regional success and remains an important part of Norway’s dairy heritage today.
Traditionally, Ski Queen is served in delicate slices over toast or crispbread, but its sweet, caramel notes also make it an unexpected addition to sauces, desserts, and even sweet-style fondue.
Together, Jarlsberg and Ski Queen showcase the diversity of Norwegian cheesemaking. One offers familiar versatility, while the other delivers a uniquely sweet flavor experience—both reflecting the tradition and craftsmanship behind Norseland’s portfolio.