On June 28, 2003, Dan, Merrie, and Ron made a pilgrimage to Cabot, VT (population 200 people and a lot of cows) to visit the birthplace of their favorite Extra Sharp White . . .
Merrie and Ron stand outside the factory, eager to enter and learn about the wonders of cheesemaking. Not visible in the picture, just to the right of the entrance, was a baby cow that Merrie got to pet.
Dan loves cheese so much, he wishes he could make it himself!
Hooray for the Best Cheddar in the USA! While waiting in the lobby, we enjoyed some fresh Cabot butter on crackers. (The smaller sign hanging underneath this one explains how Cabot supports female dairy farmers -- Merrie is pleased that her favorite cheesemakers aren't oppressing her cheese-making sisters.)
Dan stands next to the free sample area. Free and Cheese -- our two favorite things! Dan and Ron claim to have had close to 50 cubes! Merrie estimates her intake at 20. We especially enjoyed the Private Stock and the Vintage selections, which were Extra Extra Extra Sharp.
Dan displays some of our favorite finds. The Garlic Cheddar packed quite a punch! Too bad they don't sell it in California... I guess we'll just have to drive to Vermont next time we have a craving!
Cabot sent us complementary cheese -- check out the photos from our Cheese Party!