Tag: wisconsin cheddar

  • Valentine’s Day Is Better With Cheese

    Valentines Cheese

    Flowers fade. Chocolates disappear.
    Cheese, however, brings people together.

    This Valentine’s Day, skip the predictable gifts and choose Valentine’s Day cheese gifts that invite sharing and connection. Whether you’re planning a cozy night in, building a simple cheese board, or surprising someone with a thoughtful treat, cheese instantly makes Valentine’s Day feel more relaxed, more personal, and far more delicious.

    Why Cheese Works So Well for Valentine’s Day

    Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be extravagant to feel meaningful. In fact, the best celebrations often happen when you slow down, gather around the table, and enjoy good food together.

    Cheese fits the moment perfectly because it:

    • encourages sharing and conversation
    • pairs effortlessly with wine, crackers, fruit, or chocolate
    • feels indulgent without being overdone
    • gives everyone something to enjoy together

    As a result, cheese continues to play a role in celebrations year after year.

    Valentine’s Day Cheese Gifts Everyone Will Love

    Thankfully, creating a memorable Valentine’s Day doesn’t require complicated planning. Instead, a few well-chosen cheeses and simple pairings create an experience that feels thoughtful and intentional.

    When building a Valentine’s cheese board, start with:

    • one bold or sharp cheese to add depth
    • one mild or creamy cheese to balance flavors
    • one snackable option for easy sharing

    Then, add crackers, sliced apples, grapes, or nuts. Altogether, these elements create a board that feels special without feeling overwhelming.

    Choose a Cozy Night In Instead

    Rather than battling crowded restaurants, consider staying in.

    A cheese-centered Valentine’s dinner encourages grazing, conversation, and connection at your own pace. Whether you spread everything out on the kitchen counter or keep it casual on the coffee table, cheese naturally sets the tone for a relaxed and enjoyable evening — no reservations required.

    A Valentine’s Gift That People Actually Use

    When it comes to gifting, thoughtfulness matters more than flash.

    That’s why Valentine’s Day cheese gifts stand out. They feel unexpected, easy to enjoy together, and perfect for couples, friends, or family. More importantly, they create moments — not clutter.

    Pair cheese with a handwritten note, a favorite drink, or a movie night at home, and suddenly the gift feels both personal and practical.

    Celebrate Valentine’s Day the Cheesy Way

    Ultimately, Valentine’s Day is about connection. It’s about slowing down, sharing something good, and enjoying the moment together.

    And just like love, cheese is best when shared.

    Make Valentine’s Day Delicious

    Planning something special? We’ve got you covered.

    👉 Shop Cheese Gifts

    From our family farm in Wisconsin to your table—thanks for supporting small-batch, farmstead cheese made the right way!

    Ron’s Wisconsin Cheese

    Farm Fresh. Handcrafted.Farmstead Cheese.

    Written By Ron’s Teammate:

    Cassie

    Cassie is part of the Ron’s Wisconsin Cheese team, where she helps bring handcrafted, farm-fresh cheese to families across the country. Based in Kewaunee, Wisconsin, she’s passionate about local food, sustainable farming, and sharing the story behind every bite.

  • Why Winter Is the Best Time for Cheese

    Ron's Snow Cheddar
    Ron’s Snow Cheddar in the Snow

    When most people think about cheese season, summer picnics and holiday gift boxes usually come to mind. But behind the scenes, winter is one of the most important — and underrated — times of year for great cheese.

    At Ron’s Wisconsin Cheese, winter plays a huge role in flavor, quality, and consistency. From how cheese ages to how it ships, colder months create conditions that let cheese truly shine.

    Here’s why winter might just be the best time to enjoy cheese.

    Winter Brings Consistency From Farm to Creamery

    Winter also brings consistency on the farm.

    Cooler temperatures mean less fluctuation throughout the day, which supports steady milk quality. That consistency matters at every step of the cheesemaking process — from the moment milk enters the plant to the final product being cut, packaged, and enjoyed.

    When everything is steady, cheesemakers can focus on precision and craftsmanship.

    Cheese Ships Better in the Winter

    There’s a practical side to winter cheese, too.

    Cold weather helps protect cheese during shipping, especially for customers ordering online. Lower outside temperatures reduce stress on packaging and help cheese arrive in better condition — fresher, firmer, and closer to how it left the creamery.

    It’s one of the reasons winter is a favorite season for shipping cheese across the country.

    Comfort Food Season Brings Out the Best in Cheese

    Let’s be honest — winter is comfort food season.

    From cheese boards and melted dishes to cozy snacks by the fire, winter meals tend to highlight cheese in its best form. Sharp cheddars, savory curds, creamy spreads, and snack cheeses all feel right at home this time of year.

    Cold days invite slower meals, shared plates, and flavors that linger.

    A Season That Celebrates Craft

    While winter may feel quieter on the outside, it’s a busy and meaningful season in the creamery. It’s a time for focus, refinement, and letting good cheese become great cheese.

    So if you’re enjoying cheese this winter, know that the season itself plays a role in what you’re tasting. Cold air, steady conditions, and patience all work together to bring out the best in every bite.

    Winter may be long in Wisconsin — but when it comes to cheese, that’s a very good thing.

    One cheese we think benefits the most from winter is our Snow Cheddar. We tend to make more of it in the wintertime ironically.

    From our family farm in Wisconsin to your table—thanks for supporting small-batch, farmstead cheese made the right way!

    Ron’s Wisconsin Cheese

    Farm Fresh. Handcrafted.Farmstead Cheese.

    Written By Ron’s Teammate:

    Cassie

    Cassie is part of the Ron’s Wisconsin Cheese team, where she helps bring handcrafted, farm-fresh cheese to families across the country. Based in Kewaunee, Wisconsin, she’s passionate about local food, sustainable farming, and sharing the story behind every bite.

  • 10 Reasons Wisconsin Cheese is the Best in the World

    Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin Logo

    When it comes to cheese, Wisconsin doesn’t just compete — it dominates. Known as America’s Dairyland, our state has built a global reputation for quality, craftsmanship, and variety. But what makes Wisconsin cheese truly stand out? Here are 10 reasons it’s considered the best in the world.

    1. Generations of Cheesemaking Tradition

    Wisconsin’s cheesemaking history stretches back to the mid-1800s, when European immigrants brought their skills to the fertile hills of the Midwest. Each generation has added to the craft, blending old-world methods with new innovations.

    2. The Perfect Environment for Dairy Cows

    Cool weather, lush pastures, and fresh water make Wisconsin ideal for raising healthy, happy cows. Great milk means great cheese — and our dairy farmers take that seriously.

    3. More Varieties Than Anywhere Else

    Wisconsin produces over 600 types, styles, and varieties of cheese, from squeaky curds to aged cheddars, blue cheeses, and artisan specialties.

    4. The Master Cheesemaker Program

    We’re the only state with the prestigious Master Cheesemaker Program, often called the “Ph.D. of cheese.” It takes years of training and testing to earn the title, and Wisconsin leads the nation in certified masters.

    5. Commitment to Quality Standards

    Since 1994, Wisconsin has required cheesemaker licensing — the only U.S. state to do so. That means every wheel and wedge is crafted under the care of a licensed professional.

    6. Innovation Meets Tradition

    From classic cheddar to unique creations like Snow Cheddar, Wisconsin cheesemakers aren’t afraid to experiment while honoring time-tested techniques.

    7. A Strong Farm-to-Table Connection

    Many Wisconsin cheesemakers, including Ron’s Wisconsin Cheese, operate farmstead creameries. They use milk from their own cows, ensuring freshness, consistency, and full control from pasture to plate.

    8. Award-Winning Excellence

    Wisconsin cheeses regularly win top honors at national and international competitions — proof that quality here is more than a marketing claim.

    9. A Culture That Celebrates Cheese

    From cheese curd festivals to roadside cheese shops, Wisconsin celebrates cheese year-round. It’s not just food — it’s part of who we are.

    10. Passion You Can Taste

    Wisconsin cheesemakers pour pride, skill, and heart into every batch. That passion is what makes the difference when you take your first bite.

    From the lush pastures of Kewaunee County to your dinner table, Wisconsin cheese carries a story in every slice. Taste the difference for yourself — because when it comes to cheese, there’s simply no place like Wisconsin.

    🛒 Shop Wisconsin Cheese at Ron’s
    📖 Read the History of Wisconsin Cheese

    Written by Rons Cheese Teammate :

    Cassie

    Cassie is part of the Ron’s Wisconsin Cheese team, where she helps bring handcrafted, farm-fresh cheese to families across the country. Based in Kewaunee, Wisconsin, she’s passionate about local food, sustainable farming, and sharing the story behind every bite.

  • Cheddar & Apples: A Fall Flavor Match Made in Wisconsin

    Sweet meets sharp in one of the Midwest’s most iconic seasonal pairings.

    As the leaves turn and apple orchards fill with fresh-picked fruit, there’s one flavor combo we come back to every fall: cheddar and apples.

    It’s sweet. It’s savory. And it’s surprisingly versatile — whether you’re building a cozy cheese board or baking up comfort food. At Ron’s Wisconsin Cheese, we think fall is the perfect time to pair our farmstead cheddar with Wisconsin’s best apples.

    Here’s how to make the most of this autumn classic.

    🧀 Why Cheddar and Apples Work So Well

    It comes down to contrast. Apples bring sweetness, acidity, and crunch. Cheddar adds richness, salt, and sharpness. The result is a perfect flavor balance — and when both are high-quality, the pairing shines.

    Think of it like peanut butter and jelly — but a lot more gourmet.

    🍎 Best Apples to Pair with Ron’s Cheddar

    Here are a few of our favorite apple varieties and how they pair with our cheeses:

    AppleFlavor ProfilePairs Well With
    HoneycrispSweet, crispSnow Cheddar, Smoked String Cheese
    Granny SmithTart, firmSnow Cheddar, 10-Year Cheddar
    JonagoldSweet-tart, juicySnow Cheddar, 3–5 Year Cheddar
    CortlandMild, creamyGarlic Dill Curds, Mild Cheddar Blocks
    McIntoshSoft, aromaticSharp Cheddar, Cheese Spreads

    🧀 Our Favorite Ways to Enjoy Apples & Cheddar

    🧺 1. On a Cheese Board

    Slice up fresh apples and serve them with cubes of Snow Cheddar. Add fig jam, spiced nuts, and a drizzle of honey.

    🥪 2. Grilled Cheese with Apple Slices

    Layer thin apple slices inside a grilled cheese with aged cheddar on sourdough. Press until crisp and golden — it’s pure comfort food.

    🥧 3. Cheddar Apple Hand Pies

    Add shredded Snow Cheddar to apple pie filling or crust dough for a savory-sweet twist. Great for fall picnics or Thanksgiving apps.

    🥗 4. Apple & Cheddar Harvest Salad

    Toss mixed greens with apple slices, roasted squash, sharp cheddar cubes, and maple vinaigrette. It’s autumn in a bowl.

    🛒 Make It a Pairing to Remember

    All of our cheddars — from smooth and creamy to sharp and aged — are made with milk from our own cows, right here in Wisconsin.

    So when you grab a fresh bag of apples from the orchard, pair them with a cheese you can trust.

    🍏 [Shop Cheddar Collection]
    🧀 [Try Snow Cheddar]

    Written By Teammate:

    Cassie

    Cassie is part of the Ron’s Wisconsin Cheese team, where she helps bring handcrafted, farm-fresh cheese to families across the country. Based in Kewaunee, Wisconsin, she’s passionate about local food, sustainable farming, and sharing the story behind every bite.

  • How Snow Cheddar Was Born: A Vision Turned Wisconsin Favorite

    Ron's Wisconsin Cheese Snow Cheddar Products
    Ron’s Wisconsin Cheese Snow Cheddar Products

    Snow Cheddar didn’t happen by accident. Instead, it began with a challenge, a vision, and the determination of one man to create something extraordinary. At Ron’s Wisconsin Cheese, we’ve always been proud of our farmstead roots. However, John T. Pagel—founder of Pagel’s Ponderosa Dairy and creator of Snow Cheddar—wanted to leave his own mark on Wisconsin cheesemaking.

    The True Story Behind Snow Cheddar

    From the start, John was determined to create a signature cheese that could be made exclusively at his farmstead cheese operation. He began by tasting several types of cheese and meeting with industry experts. Through these conversations and tastings, he identified the exact flavors, textures, and qualities he wanted in his creation.

    With that clear vision, John worked closely with skilled cheesemakers to craft a recipe that would deliver those qualities. Together, they perfected a cheddar with a creamy texture, balanced sharpness, and pure, natural flavor.

    Why the Name “Snow”

    Choosing the name “Snow” came naturally. John wanted to showcase the cheese’s natural, uncolored appearance, free from the orange color used in many traditional cheddars. Its snowy white color reflects not only Wisconsin winters but also the authenticity of farmstead cheesemaking.

    By keeping the cheese’s color pure, John ensured Snow Cheddar would stand out for its craftsmanship and quality.

    From Farmstead Vision to Wisconsin Favorite

    Once the first batches came out of the creamery, customers responded instantly. They loved the smooth melt, rich flavor, and striking natural color. Word spread quickly, and Snow Cheddar moved from a new experiment to a must-have cheese for families and food lovers.

    Today, Snow Cheddar has become one of our most requested cheeses. It’s perfect for a grilled cheese sandwich, adds depth to macaroni and cheese, and elevates any cheese board. Every wheel still comes from fresh milk from our farm and is crafted with the same care John poured into the very first batch.

    A Legacy in Every Bite

    Snow Cheddar is more than a product—it’s a true testament to John T. Pagel’s dedication to producing authentic, high-quality cheese on his farmstead operation. Every decision—from the selection of flavors to the choice to keep its natural ivory color—reflects his passion for cheesemaking.

    If you’ve never tried Snow Cheddar, now is the time. It’s a cheese born from vision, crafted with care, and loved across Wisconsin and beyond.

    Taste what tradition, intention, and farmstead craftsmanship can deliver.
    🛒 Try Snow Cheddar now

    Ron’s Wisconsin Cheese

    Farm Fresh. Handcrafted.Farmstead Cheese.

    Written By Rons Teammate:

    Cassie

    Cassie is part of the Ron’s Wisconsin Cheese team, where she helps bring handcrafted, farm-fresh cheese to families across the country. Based in Kewaunee, Wisconsin, she’s passionate about local food, sustainable farming, and sharing the story behind every bite.

  • 5 Delicious Ways to Use Snow Cheddar This Summer

    Ron's Snow Cheddar
    Ron’s Snow Cheddar

    Your favorite farmstead Snow Cheddar, now in season.

    Summer’s the perfect time to lighten things up — but that doesn’t mean you have to give up bold flavor. Our Snow Cheddar is smooth, nutty, and naturally white, making it the ideal addition to everything from backyard picnics to sunset snack boards.

    Here are 5 simple, crowd-pleasing ways to enjoy Snow Cheddar this summer:

    1. 🍉 Snow Cheddar & Watermelon Skewers

    Fresh, salty, sweet — these skewers are a flavor bomb.
    Cube Snow Cheddar and watermelon, then layer them on toothpicks or small skewers with a sprig of mint. It’s the ultimate poolside snack or picnic side dish.

    2. 🧺 Cheddar Picnic Sandwiches with a Twist

    Upgrade your usual sandwich with sliced Snow Cheddar, spicy pepper jelly, arugula, and deli turkey on a crusty baguette. The cheese’s creamy, nutty bite balances the heat and gives every bite a farm-fresh finish.

    3. 🥗 Cold Pasta Salad with Shaved Cheddar

    Skip the shredded mozzarella — shave ribbons of Snow Cheddar into your favorite summer pasta salad. Try it with bowties, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. Bright, satisfying, and far from boring.

    4. 🧀 Charcuterie, the Summer Edition

    Snow Cheddar holds its own on any cheese board. Pair it with:

    • Fresh berries
    • Honeycomb or peach preserves
    • Salted almonds or cashews
    • Cured meats like prosciutto or summer sausage
      Add a cold drink, and you’re set.

    5. 🔥 Campfire Quesadillas

    Bring Snow Cheddar on your next camping trip. Melt it inside tortillas with grilled veggies and chicken over the fire or grill. The cheddar melts beautifully and gives your meal a rich, smoky twist.

    ❄️ Light, Bright, and Full of Flavor

    Snow Cheddar is made right here on our farm from milk we produce ourselves — so every bite is packed with freshness and care. Whether you’re grilling, packing a picnic, or just snacking by the lake, this cheese belongs in your cooler.

    🛒 [Shop Snow Cheddar Now]

    From our family farm in Wisconsin to your table—thanks for supporting small-batch, farmstead cheese made the right way!

    Ron’s Wisconsin Cheese

    Farm Fresh. Handcrafted.Farmstead Cheese.

    Written By Rons Cheese Teammate

    Cassie

    Cassie is part of the Ron’s Wisconsin Cheese team, where she helps bring handcrafted, farm-fresh cheese to families across the country. Based in Kewaunee, Wisconsin, she’s passionate about local food, sustainable farming, and sharing the story behind every bite.

  • Discover the Charm of Snow Cheddar: A Farmstead Favorite

    Ron's Snow Cheddar

    What Is Snow Cheddar?

    Snow Cheddar is a creamy, naturally white cheddar and a true farmstead favorite—crafted in small batches right on our Wisconsin farm. Unlike traditional cheddar dyed orange, this variety stays pure and authentic, with a smooth, buttery flavor that speaks for itself.

    It’s the perfect choice for those who appreciate cheese made with integrity and freshness at its core.

    What Makes Snow Cheddar Stand Out

    What sets this cheese apart isn’t just the color—it’s the process. Each block is crafted using milk from our own herd, just hours after milking. That freshness, combined with time-honored cheesemaking methods, results in a cheddar that’s rich, clean, and undeniably smooth.

    🛒 Want to experience it? Shop our farmstead cheddar here

    The Farmstead Method Behind Snow Cheddar

    As a true farmstead operation, everything starts on-site—from caring for our cows to crafting every wheel of cheese. That full-circle control means better quality, better flavor, and better transparency for you.

    No shortcuts. No artificial dyes. Just real cheese made the real way.

    🐄 Curious about how we do it? Read our farm story.

    How to Enjoy Snow Cheddar

    Whether you’re slicing it for snacks or melting it into dinner, Snow Cheddar delivers smooth, satisfying flavor that fits any occasion. Here are a few favorite ways to enjoy it:

    • Layered on sandwiches or wraps
    • Melted into creamy mac and cheese
    • Paired with smoked meats and fruits on a charcuterie board
    • Served in cubes as a quick snack

    ❓ FAQ – All About This Cheese

    What makes it different from regular cheddar?
    This white cheddar is never colored, and it’s made with milk sourced directly from our cows. It has a smoother, cleaner flavor and a handcrafted touch.

    Can I cook with it?
    Absolutely. It melts beautifully and adds a rich flavor to grilled cheese, casseroles, and soups.

    Is it made with Wisconsin milk?
    Yes—always. Every batch starts with fresh milk from our Kewaunee farm.

    Learn More About Cheddar

    Ever wonder why some cheddar is orange and some is white? It all comes down to tradition—not taste. Learn more in this helpful cheese color guide from Wisconsin Cheese.

    Final Thoughts

    Whether you’re building a snack board or adding bold flavor to dinner, Snow Cheddar delivers. It’s more than cheese—it’s a true taste of the farm.

    🌟 Order a block today and experience the difference freshness makes.

    From our family farm in Wisconsin to your table—thanks for supporting small-batch, farmstead cheese made the right way!

    Ron’s Wisconsin Cheese

    Farm Fresh. Handcrafted.Farmstead Cheese.

    Written By Ron’s Cheese Teammate:

    Cassie

    Cassie is part of the Ron’s Wisconsin Cheese team, where she helps bring handcrafted, farm-fresh cheese to families across the country. Based in Kewaunee, Wisconsin, she’s passionate about local food, sustainable farming, and sharing the story behind every bite.

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