12 California Cheeses That Everyone Should Know

One may think of Europe when one thinks of great cheese, but over the past few years California dairy farmers have been stepping up their game, and the Golden State is now home to a wide range of truly excellent cheeses, from cows, sheep and goats. Some of the best are listed below — what are your favorite California cheeses?

Foggy Morning, Nicasio Valley (pictured)
Tangy and sharp, this spreadable cream cheese-like cow cheese is especially nice on toast with a drizzle of honey or your favorite jam. Its texture is slightly crumbly, but melts on the tongue.

Humboldt Fog, Cypress Grove Chevre
World famous Humboldt Fog may be responsible for solidifying California's place in the cheesemaking world. Progressive techniques combined with some old-world nuances (the ash rind) impressed the world nearly 20 years ago, and now this cheese is a household name among aficionados. Even if you don't enjoy this chevre, it's one to know about it.

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