Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam is a renowned artisanal cheese that has gained a cult following among cheese enthusiasts and foodies alike. Produced by the award-winning Cowgirl Creamery in Point Reyes Station, California, this cheese is a masterclass in flavor, texture, and craftsmanship. In this article, we will delve into the world of Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam, exploring its origins, characteristics, and what makes it a standout in the world of artisanal cheese.
A Brief History of Cowgirl Creamery
Before we dive into the specifics of Mt Tam, it’s essential to understand the story behind Cowgirl Creamery. Founded in 1997 by Sue Conley and Peggy Smith, Cowgirl Creamery is a pioneering artisanal cheese maker that has been at the forefront of the American artisanal cheese movement. With a passion for creating high-quality, farm-to-table cheeses, Conley and Smith have built a reputation for producing some of the most distinctive and delicious cheeses in the country.
The Inspiration Behind Mt Tam
Mt Tam, named after the iconic Mount Tamalpais in Marin County, California, was first introduced by Cowgirl Creamery in 1998. The cheese was inspired by the classic French triple-cream cheeses, such as Explorateur and Brillat-Savarin. However, Conley and Smith wanted to create a cheese that was uniquely American, using the rich milk from the Straus Family Creamery in Marshall, California.
The Cheese-Making Process
Mt Tam is made from the milk of Holstein cows, which is rich in butterfat and protein. The cheese-making process begins with the careful selection of high-quality milk, which is then pasteurized and mixed with a blend of bacterial cultures. The mixture is left to ripen for several hours, allowing the bacteria to convert the milk sugar into lactic acid. The curds are then cut and shaped into small wheels, which are aged for a minimum of 30 days.
Characteristics of Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam
So, what makes Mt Tam so special? Here are some of the key characteristics that set this cheese apart:
- Rich, creamy texture: Mt Tam has a luxurious, spreadable texture that is similar to butter. This is due to the high butterfat content of the milk, which gives the cheese a rich, indulgent feel.
- Mild, earthy flavor: The flavor of Mt Tam is mild and earthy, with notes of mushroom, grass, and hay. The cheese has a subtle, nuanced flavor profile that is both soothing and sophisticated.
- White rind: Mt Tam has a thin, white rind that is edible and adds to the overall flavor and texture of the cheese.
- Aging process: Mt Tam is aged for a minimum of 30 days, which allows the cheese to develop a rich, complex flavor profile.
Paring Mt Tam with Food and Drink
Mt Tam is a versatile cheese that can be paired with a variety of foods and drinks. Here are some suggestions:
- Fresh fruit: Mt Tam pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, such as apples, pears, and grapes. The sweetness of the fruit complements the richness of the cheese, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
- Crackers and bread: Mt Tam is delicious served with crackers or bread, such as water crackers or baguette slices. The crunchy texture of the crackers or bread provides a nice contrast to the creamy cheese.
- Wine: Mt Tam pairs well with a variety of wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity and fruitiness of the wine complement the richness of the cheese, creating a perfect pairing.
Cooking with Mt Tam
Mt Tam is also a great cheese to cook with, adding a rich, creamy texture to a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas:
- Baked potatoes: Top a baked potato with Mt Tam, sour cream, and chives for a decadent and delicious side dish.
- Mac and cheese: Add Mt Tam to your macaroni and cheese recipe for an extra-rich and creamy sauce.
- Cheese sauce: Use Mt Tam to make a creamy cheese sauce for vegetables, such as broccoli or cauliflower.
The Awards and Accolades of Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam
Mt Tam has received widespread critical acclaim, winning numerous awards and accolades in the cheese-making community. Some of the notable awards include:
- American Cheese Society: Mt Tam has won several awards at the American Cheese Society, including Best of Show in 2003.
- World Cheese Awards: Mt Tam has won several awards at the World Cheese Awards, including a gold medal in 2011.
- Good Food Awards: Mt Tam has won several Good Food Awards, including a gold medal in 2014.
The Impact of Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam on the Artisanal Cheese Movement
Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam has had a significant impact on the artisanal cheese movement in the United States. The cheese has helped to raise the profile of American artisanal cheese, demonstrating that high-quality, farm-to-table cheeses can be produced in the United States. Mt Tam has also inspired a new generation of cheese makers, who are experimenting with new techniques and ingredients to create unique and delicious cheeses.
The Future of Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam
As the artisanal cheese movement continues to grow and evolve, Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam remains a benchmark for high-quality, farm-to-table cheese. With its rich, creamy texture and mild, earthy flavor, Mt Tam is a cheese that is sure to continue to delight cheese enthusiasts and foodies alike. Whether you’re a seasoned cheese aficionado or just discovering the world of artisanal cheese, Mt Tam is a must-try.
| Cheese Name | Milk Type | Aging Process | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam | Holstein cow milk | Minimum 30 days | Mild, earthy, with notes of mushroom, grass, and hay |
In conclusion, Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam is a truly exceptional cheese that embodies the spirit of artisanal cheese making. With its rich, creamy texture and mild, earthy flavor, Mt Tam is a cheese that is sure to delight even the most discerning palate. Whether you’re a cheese enthusiast, a foodie, or simply looking to try something new, Mt Tam is a must-try.
What is Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam?
Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam is a type of artisanal cheese made by Cowgirl Creamery, a renowned American cheese company. It is a soft-ripened, triple-cream cheese made from cow’s milk, with a white rind and a creamy, buttery interior. Mt Tam is named after Mount Tamalpais, a mountain in Marin County, California, where the creamery is located.
Mt Tam cheese is known for its rich, earthy flavor profile, which is developed through a process of hand-turning and aging. The cheese is made with high-quality, locally sourced milk and is crafted using traditional techniques. The result is a cheese that is both decadent and refined, with a texture that is smooth and spreadable.
What makes Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam unique?
Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam is unique in several ways. Firstly, it is made using a traditional French technique called “affinage,” which involves hand-turning and aging the cheese to develop its flavor and texture. This process gives Mt Tam its distinctive white rind and creamy interior. Additionally, the cheese is made with high-quality, locally sourced milk, which gives it a rich and nuanced flavor profile.
Another factor that sets Mt Tam apart is its terroir. The cheese is made in Marin County, California, which is known for its mild climate and rich soil. These conditions contribute to the cheese’s unique flavor profile, which is characterized by notes of earth, grass, and wildflowers. Overall, the combination of traditional techniques, high-quality milk, and unique terroir make Mt Tam a truly distinctive and delicious cheese.
How is Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam made?
The production of Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam involves a multi-step process that begins with the selection of high-quality milk. The creamery sources its milk from local dairy farms, where it is carefully crafted to ensure the highest quality. The milk is then pasteurized and mixed with a starter culture, which converts the milk sugar into lactic acid.
The curds are then shaped into small wheels, which are hand-turned and aged in a controlled environment. During this process, the cheese develops its distinctive white rind and creamy interior. The aging process typically takes several weeks, during which time the cheese is regularly turned and monitored to ensure that it develops the desired flavor and texture.
What does Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam taste like?
Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam has a rich and nuanced flavor profile that is characterized by notes of earth, grass, and wildflowers. The cheese has a creamy, buttery texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. As it ages, the cheese develops a stronger, more pronounced flavor, with notes of mushroom and truffle.
The flavor profile of Mt Tam is often described as “umami,” which refers to the savory, meaty flavor that is characteristic of many artisanal cheeses. The cheese is also known for its “terroir,” which refers to the unique flavor profile that is imparted by the local environment. Overall, the flavor of Mt Tam is complex and multifaceted, making it a great choice for cheese plates and other culinary applications.
How should I serve Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam?
Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam is a versatile cheese that can be served in a variety of ways. One popular way to serve Mt Tam is on a cheese plate, where it can be paired with crackers, bread, and fruit. The cheese is also delicious when served with charcuterie, such as prosciutto or salami.
Mt Tam can also be used in cooking, where it adds a rich and creamy texture to dishes like pasta, pizza, and risotto. The cheese is also a great choice for baking, where it can be used to make delicious cheese cakes and tarts. Overall, the key to serving Mt Tam is to let its unique flavor profile shine, so be sure to pair it with ingredients that complement its rich and creamy texture.
Can I pair Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam with wine?
Yes, Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam can be paired with a variety of wines, including white, red, and sparkling wines. One popular pairing is with a dry Riesling, which complements the cheese’s creamy texture and nuanced flavor profile. Other good pairing options include Pinot Noir, which pairs well with the cheese’s earthy flavors, and Champagne, which adds a celebratory touch to any cheese plate.
When pairing Mt Tam with wine, it’s a good idea to consider the cheese’s flavor profile and texture. The cheese’s creamy texture and nuanced flavor profile make it a great match for wines that are crisp and refreshing. Avoid pairing Mt Tam with wines that are too oaky or tannic, as these can overpower the cheese’s delicate flavors.
Where can I buy Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam?
Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam is widely available in specialty cheese shops and gourmet food stores. It can also be purchased online from a variety of retailers, including the Cowgirl Creamery website. If you’re having trouble finding Mt Tam in stores, you can also try contacting local cheese shops or gourmet food stores to see if they carry it.
In addition to purchasing Mt Tam from retailers, you can also visit the Cowgirl Creamery shop in Point Reyes Station, California, where you can taste the cheese and learn more about its production. The shop offers a variety of cheese tastings and tours, which provide a behind-the-scenes look at the cheese-making process.