The 25 Most Important Cheeses in America, According to Cheese Experts Unique, quintessentially American cheeses you need to track down and try immediately.

bonappetite ^

[mylife]

The phrase American cheese used to mean only one thing: that floppy, pale orange plastic-wrapped slice of processed perfection. But when I use the phrase American cheese now, that’s not what I’m talking about (save for this great grilled cheese recipe and the occasional hamburger). Instead, I’m referring to the incredible range of cheeses handcrafted in America—from young, tangy goat cheeses in Indiana to aged, nutty cow’s-milk cheese in Wisconsin; dessert-like blue cheeses from Oregon and complex, caramel-y clothbound cheddars from Vermont.

We’re living in a dairy renaissance, people! The golden age of American cheese! What a time to be alive!

But the cheese counter can be an intimidating place; good cheese does not come cheap. So I asked seven of the country’s leading cheese experts (see their bios at the end) to share what they think are the most important (and most delicious) cheeses that define American dairy today. Beyond just how good these cheeses taste, many of them also serve as models for responsible dairy farming and helping local communities.

While this list is a great starting point, don’t make it an ending point. Chat with your cheesemonger, find out what your nearby dairies are producing, and—best of all—always ask for samples. But, you know, then go buy something; think of your cheese purchase as not only supporting your desire to sit on the couch and eat cheese for dinner, but also as a way to support small businesses. Now that’s a cause I can get behind.

[Nachoman]

Wait. Its nacho day? Why wasn’t I informed?

[cherry]

" Expensive"

I find I don't mind spending money when the product is really good...sort of like rib eyes....might as well splurge once in a while.

[Harmless Teddy Bear]

Blessed are the cheesemakers!

And I am sure that covers all who work with dairy products. :)