Beehive Cheese, a renowned artisanal cheese maker from Utah, has been tantalizing the taste buds of cheese enthusiasts for over two decades. Their unique, handcrafted cheeses have garnered a loyal following, with many aficionados swearing by the distinctive flavor profiles of their creations. But what does Beehive cheese taste like, exactly? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Beehive Cheese, exploring the characteristics, flavor notes, and pairing suggestions that make their cheeses truly exceptional.
Understanding Beehive Cheese
Before we dive into the flavor profiles, it’s essential to understand the story behind Beehive Cheese. Founded in 2005 by Tim Welsh and Pat Ford, Beehive Cheese is a family-owned business that prides itself on using only the finest, all-natural ingredients and traditional cheese-making techniques. Their cheeses are crafted in small batches, ensuring that every wheel or block meets the highest standards of quality and flavor.
The Cheese-Making Process
Beehive Cheese’s commitment to quality begins with the selection of premium milk from local dairy farms. The milk is then pasteurized, and a blend of natural enzymes and bacterial cultures is added to initiate the cheese-making process. The curds are carefully hand-stirred, cut, and shaped to create the desired texture and flavor profile. Finally, the cheeses are aged to perfection in Beehive’s temperature- and humidity-controlled facility.
Flavor Profiles of Beehive Cheese
Beehive Cheese offers a diverse range of artisanal cheeses, each with its unique flavor profile. Here are some of their most popular varieties:
Seahive
Seahive is a semi-soft, washed-rind cheese with a rich, buttery flavor and a hint of sea salt. The cheese is rubbed with a mixture of sea salt and red alderwood smoke during the aging process, giving it a distinctive, savory flavor.
Flavor Notes:
- Rich, creamy texture
- Buttery, sweet flavor
- Hint of sea salt and smokiness
- Earthy, umami undertones
Barely Buzzed
Barely Buzzed is a semi-soft, rubbed-rind cheese with a subtle, sweet flavor and a hint of spice. The cheese is rubbed with a blend of espresso and lavender during the aging process, giving it a unique, aromatic flavor.
Flavor Notes:
- Smooth, creamy texture
- Sweet, subtle flavor
- Hint of espresso and lavender
- Fruity, floral undertones
Applewood Smoked Cheddar
Applewood Smoked Cheddar is a firm, smoked cheese with a rich, tangy flavor and a hint of sweetness. The cheese is smoked over applewood chips during the aging process, giving it a deep, complex flavor.
Flavor Notes:
- Firm, crumbly texture
- Rich, tangy flavor
- Hint of sweetness and smokiness
- Fruity, nutty undertones
Pairing Suggestions for Beehive Cheese
Beehive Cheese is incredibly versatile, and their cheeses can be paired with a wide range of foods and beverages. Here are some pairing suggestions to get you started:
Seahive Pairing Suggestions
- Pair Seahive with a dry Riesling or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc for a refreshing, citrusy match.
- Combine Seahive with sliced apples or pears for a sweet and savory snack.
- Use Seahive in a grilled cheese sandwich with caramelized onions and fig jam for a sweet and savory twist.
Barely Buzzed Pairing Suggestions
- Pair Barely Buzzed with a rich, fruity Merlot or a smooth, creamy coffee for a decadent match.
- Combine Barely Buzzed with sliced pears or grapes for a sweet and savory snack.
- Use Barely Buzzed in a cheese plate with crackers, garnished with fresh herbs and edible flowers.
Applewood Smoked Cheddar Pairing Suggestions
- Pair Applewood Smoked Cheddar with a bold, hoppy IPA or a smooth, malty brown ale for a rich, complex match.
- Combine Applewood Smoked Cheddar with sliced meats, such as prosciutto or salami, for a savory and satisfying snack.
- Use Applewood Smoked Cheddar in a mac and cheese recipe with crispy bacon and caramelized onions.
Conclusion
Beehive Cheese is a true gem in the world of artisanal cheese, offering a range of unique and delicious flavor profiles that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned cheese aficionado or just discovering the world of artisanal cheese, Beehive Cheese is definitely worth exploring. With their commitment to quality, traditional cheese-making techniques, and creative flavor profiles, Beehive Cheese is sure to become a favorite among cheese enthusiasts.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to Beehive Cheese, the flavor profiles are truly exceptional. From the rich, buttery flavor of Seahive to the subtle, sweet flavor of Barely Buzzed, each cheese offers a unique and delicious taste experience. Whether you’re pairing their cheeses with wine, beer, or food, Beehive Cheese is sure to impress. So why not give them a try? Your taste buds will thank you!
What is Beehive Cheese and where does it originate from?
Beehive Cheese is a type of artisanal cheese that originates from the Beehive Cheese Company, a family-owned business based in Uintah, Utah. The company was founded in 2005 by Tim Welsh and his brother-in-law, Pat Ford, who shared a passion for creating unique and delicious cheeses. Beehive Cheese is known for its distinctive flavor profiles, which are achieved through a combination of traditional cheese-making techniques and innovative approaches.
The company’s cheeses are made from the milk of local dairy farms, which is carefully selected and crafted into a range of products, including aged cheddars, gouda, and blue cheeses. Beehive Cheese has gained a reputation for its high-quality products, which are sought after by cheese enthusiasts and chefs alike. The company’s commitment to using only the finest ingredients and traditional cheese-making methods has earned it numerous awards and accolades within the industry.
What sets Beehive Cheese apart from other artisanal cheeses?
Beehive Cheese is distinct from other artisanal cheeses due to its unique flavor profiles, which are achieved through a combination of traditional cheese-making techniques and innovative approaches. The company’s cheeses are made with a focus on showcasing the natural flavors of the milk, rather than relying on artificial additives or preservatives. This approach results in cheeses that are rich, complex, and full of character.
Another factor that sets Beehive Cheese apart is its commitment to sustainability and community involvement. The company works closely with local dairy farms to source its milk, supporting the local economy and promoting environmentally friendly farming practices. Additionally, Beehive Cheese is involved in various community initiatives, such as cheese-making workshops and educational programs, which help to promote the art of cheese-making and support local food systems.
What are some popular types of Beehive Cheese?
Beehive Cheese offers a range of artisanal cheeses, each with its own unique flavor profile and characteristics. Some popular types of Beehive Cheese include the Barely Buzzed, a cheddar-style cheese infused with espresso and lavender; the Seahive, a cheddar-style cheese rubbed with a blend of sea salt and honey; and the Promontory, a cheddar-style cheese aged with a hint of smoked paprika.
Other popular varieties include the Applewood Smoked Cheddar, which is smoked over applewood chips to give it a rich, savory flavor; and the Queen Bee, a blue cheese made with a blend of cow’s and goat’s milk. Beehive Cheese also offers a range of seasonal cheeses, which are made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and are available for limited periods throughout the year.
How should I store and handle Beehive Cheese?
To ensure that your Beehive Cheese remains fresh and flavorful, it’s essential to store it properly. Soft cheeses, such as the Queen Bee blue cheese, should be wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of 35°F to 45°F (2°C to 7°C). Hard cheeses, such as the Barely Buzzed cheddar, can be stored at room temperature, but should be wrapped in wax paper or parchment paper to prevent drying out.
When handling Beehive Cheese, it’s essential to keep it away from strong-smelling foods, as it can absorb odors easily. You should also avoid exposing the cheese to direct sunlight or heat, as this can cause it to spoil or become discolored. When serving Beehive Cheese, it’s best to remove it from the refrigerator about 30 minutes beforehand, allowing it to come to room temperature and develop its full flavor.
Can I pair Beehive Cheese with wine or beer?
Beehive Cheese can be paired with a range of wines and beers, depending on the type of cheese and your personal preferences. For example, the Barely Buzzed cheddar pairs well with a rich, full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah. The Seahive cheddar, on the other hand, pairs well with a crisp, refreshing white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
When it comes to beer, Beehive Cheese can be paired with a range of styles, from hoppy IPAs to rich, malty stouts. The Applewood Smoked Cheddar, for example, pairs well with a smoky, malty beer, such as a Rauchbier or a Smoked Porter. The Queen Bee blue cheese, on the other hand, pairs well with a sweet, fruity beer, such as a Lambic or a Fruit Beer.
Can I use Beehive Cheese in cooking and recipes?
Beehive Cheese can be used in a range of recipes, from soups and sauces to salads and sandwiches. The cheese’s rich, complex flavors make it a versatile ingredient that can add depth and character to a variety of dishes. For example, the Barely Buzzed cheddar can be used in a cheesy soup or sauce, while the Seahive cheddar can be grated over a salad or used in a cheese plate.
When using Beehive Cheese in cooking, it’s essential to consider the cheese’s flavor profile and texture. Soft cheeses, such as the Queen Bee blue cheese, can be crumbled or melted, while hard cheeses, such as the Promontory cheddar, can be grated or sliced. Beehive Cheese can also be used as a topping for crackers or bread, or as a filling for sandwiches and wraps.
Where can I purchase Beehive Cheese?
Beehive Cheese is available for purchase through a range of channels, including the company’s website, specialty food stores, and gourmet cheese shops. You can also find Beehive Cheese at farmers’ markets and food festivals, where the company often showcases its products and offers samples.
In addition to purchasing Beehive Cheese directly from the company or through specialty retailers, you can also find it on the menus of many top restaurants and cafes. Many chefs and restaurateurs appreciate the unique flavor profiles and high quality of Beehive Cheese, and feature it prominently in their dishes. Whether you’re a cheese enthusiast or just looking to try something new, Beehive Cheese is definitely worth seeking out.