If you’re planning your next outing to Bluemont, leave room for cheese! We are excited to feature Loudoun’s newest local, natural, (and delicious) cheese from Village Cheesworks in our Farm Market and at Henway Hard Cider on their local menu. Their products are a perfect compliment to your favorite summer beverage on the porch, charcuterie board for a night in, or grilled cheese dinner for the kids.
Why do we love them?
When Eric Hilgartener walked into our Farm Market this spring with a small cooler and a cutting board, we were blown away by his passion and energy for the newly formed Village Cheeseworks. We have known this Loudoun Family for years as Eric’s dad used to coach our boys in wrestling and Eric was an amazing wrestler at Loudoun Valley in his day. Now that discipline and energy is focused on making fine cheese and actively engaged in supporting and preserving family farms. Their attitude is that it “takes a village,” and we couldn’t agree more! All of their milk comes from the last Loudoun Dairy Family Farm, Potts Dairy, outside of Purcellville. The dairy has been in operation for 5 generations and produces some of the highest quality milk for cheesemaking (think butterfat) found on the east coast.
Another way that this cheese is uniquely local is that the Blue Cheese, aptly named, Bluemont, is washed with our own cider from Henway Hard Cider Company. This washing process keeps the blue marbling inside the cheese rind rather and is a natural approach to creating this blue cheese rather than using a chemical wash.
What are the different cheese varieties?
Bluemont
The Bluemont is tried and true to its name! This blue cheese pairs well with red or sparkling wine. It also pairs well with dried fruits, pears, figs, and whole grain crackers. When it comes to meat, this flavor tastes best with beef, especially steak. Uniquely cider washed with our own Henway Hard Cider.
Round Hill
The Round Hill is a beautiful example of the Brie/Camembert style of cheeses. It makes a great compliment to farm fresh plums or sweet jams and crackers. When choosing food with this cheese, think of a rich brie style flavoring.
Zulla 
The Zulla is a French Muenster inspired washed rind cheese with a little bit of complex ripening for the real cheese lovers. Due to its slightly salty nature, Zulla is great on sandwiches and has excellent melting properties. This cheese is rich and designed for the true connoisseur.
How can I try their products ?
At Great Country Farms, we carry Village Cheeseworks in our farm market for purchase. Village Cheeseworks strives to create strong relationships with the local community by offering their products at local farmer’s markets and events. They are passionate about making their products available to customers in the area. To find out more about where to try their cheese, give them a follow on Instagram!
Instagram: @villagecheeseworks
