Not every award-winning cheese begins in a creamery. At Cherry Grove Farm, it begins in the pasture. Spread across nearly 500 acres in New Jersey, this farmstead creamery has been crafting award-winning raw milk cheeses since 2002, with every step of the process—from milking the cows to aging each wheel—happening right on the farm.
That farmstead approach creates something commercial dairies simply can’t replicate. Because the milk never leaves the property before becoming cheese, the cheesemakers have complete control over quality while allowing the changing seasons to shape every batch. As the cows graze fresh pasture throughout the year, subtle shifts in the landscape are reflected in the flavor of the cheese, creating a true expression of the farm’s terroir.
The farm’s regenerative approach is just as important as its cheesemaking. Cherry Grove Farm uses rotational grazing, regularly moving its grass-fed herd to fresh pasture so the land has time to recover naturally. Healthier soil grows healthier grasses, which nourish healthier cows and, ultimately, produce richer, more flavorful milk. Along the way, the practice also supports biodiversity, stronger root systems, and a more resilient landscape.
That commitment to craftsmanship has earned Cherry Grove Farm recognition throughout the artisan cheese world. Standout varieties include the award-winning Havilah, the smooth, melty Toma, the distinctive Rarebird, Abruzze Jawn, and the creamy Buttercup Brie. Each offers its own personality while reflecting the quality of the farm’s raw, grass-fed milk.
Visitors can also experience the craft firsthand through the farm’s cheesemaking classes. Guided by experienced instructors, participants learn the fundamentals of transforming milk into handcrafted cheese while gaining a deeper appreciation for the science, skill, and patience behind every wheel.
Cherry Grove Farm is a reminder that some of America’s most exciting artisan cheeses are being made close to home, where healthy pastures, thoughtful farming, and exceptional cheesemaking all come together in one place.