The Lunar Craft of Cheese: A Tale from Wisconsin
In the charming cheese-filled landscapes of Wisconsin, Hill Valley Dairy stands out not just for its award-winning cheeses but also for its celestial approach to cheesemaking. At the heart of this dairy is Ron Henningfeld, a cheesemaker whose unique inspiration hails from the moon. His journey from a curious idea to crafting Hill Valley’s first award-winning cheese, Luna, is both captivating and delicious.
From Moon Fantasies to Cheese Reality
Imagine a childhood fascination with the moon resulting in a piece of cheese—sounds like the plot of a whimsical story, right? For Ron, this was a creative reality. Inspired by the classic animated tales of Wallace and Gromit, he wondered, like many of us did, what the moon would taste like if it were made of cheese. Fast forward, and Ron, along with his wife Josie, turned this whimsical notion into a tangibly tasty wheel of cheese known as Luna. Its crumbly texture and nuanced flavors of salt, tang, and nuttiness evoke the imagined taste of the moon—an intriguing concept turned reality.
The Milk-to-Market Model: A Family Affair
Ron and his team at Hill Valley Dairy operate under a "milk-to-market" model, ensuring the integrity and quality of the cheese from the farm to the table. This approach is uniquely personal, as the milk used in their cheeses comes exclusively from Ron’s brother’s family farm. This connection doesn't just ensure quality—it's a testament to the familial and communal bonds within the Wisconsin cheesemaking industry. It’s about witnessing the transformation of milk sourced straight from a family-operated farm into award-winning cheese enjoyed by many.
Building a Community Through Cheese
Being a cheese enthusiast is not just a hobby—it's a culture, and Hill Valley Dairy contributes significantly to this community. Whether through local markets, cheese shops, or events, they provide spaces where cheese lovers can unite, explore, and savor fine cheeses. Hill Valley Dairy’s narrative doesn't just end at cheese-making—they're focused on nurturing a culture that appreciates and celebrates good cheese.
Award-Winning Cheeses: Luna's Journey
Participating in global competitions has brought Hill Valley Dairy into the spotlight, with Luna and its companion cheese Alina garnering praise and accolades. Competing in a realm where thousands of entries are evaluated, Luna’s achievement of securing top spots is an impressive feat that highlights both creativity and excellence in cheesemaking.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Horizons
The future for Hill Valley Dairy is as bright as the moon that inspired it. With the recent acquisition of a micro-cheese factory in Milwaukee, Ron plans to increase production and introduce new cheeses. Their new facility will also serve as a retail and gathering space, making it a hub for cheese enthusiasts to gather and discuss all things cheesy.
As Hill Valley Dairy continues to innovate and inspire, the story of Ron Henningfeld and his lunar-inspired cheese remains a testament to how passion, tradition, and a touch of imagination can create something truly extraordinary. Whether you're a cheese aficionado or simply a curious snacker, there’s no denying the allure of a cheese with such a stellar origin story.
