Uplands Cheese - Rush Creek Reserve

For those with a more intimate gathering, Rush Creek Reserve brings the Vacherin magic but at a smaller denomination, roughly 12 ounces. This Wisconsin delight is from Uplands, the makers of our popular Alpine Cheese, Pleasant Ridge Reserve. It has all of the dense textures and savory autumn flavors of a Fall Classic. 

- Cheesemonger Martin Johnson

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Produced only in the fall, as the diet of our cows begins to change from summer pasture to the winter’s dry hay.  This rich milk is perfect for a cheese like Rush Creek, so soft and decadent that it’s often referred to as savory custard.  Each cheese is wrapped in spruce bark, which gives shape to the cheese and imparts a subtle woodsy flavor.

Before serving Rush Creek, bring the cheese to room temp or warm it gently in an oven.  When using an oven, remove the paper wrapping and either wrap the cheese in tin foil or cover it in a ceramic crock.  Place the cheese in a 250-degree oven for approximately 45 minutes, or until the entire cheese becomes soft and warm.

Use a knife to cut around the perimeter of the cheese, just above the bark.  Lift off the rind and scoop out the soft interior with a spoon.  The rich, savory flavors are deep but delicate, and pair nicely with cured meats, roasted root vegetables and off-dry white wines.