Pleasant Ridge Reserve Cheese

Pleasant Ridge Reserve is an award-winning, artisan, semi-hard cheese made from cow's milk, originating from the United States. It is produced by Uplands Cheese Company in Dodgeville, Wisconsin. This cheese is celebrated for its complex flavor profile, which changes with the seasons due to the cows' diet of fresh pasture. It has a firm, smooth texture and a natural, rustic rind that develops during aging. The cheese's appearance is characterized by its golden-yellow interior and a slightly wrinkled, amber-colored rind. Pleasant Ridge Reserve is often compared to European alpine cheeses, such as Gruyère and Beaufort, for its rich, nutty, and slightly sweet flavor.

Pleasant Ridge Reserve was first produced in 2000 by Uplands Cheese Company, a small family-owned farm in Wisconsin. The cheese quickly gained recognition for its exceptional quality and flavor, winning multiple awards, including the prestigious Best of Show at the American Cheese Society competition. The name 'Pleasant Ridge Reserve' pays homage to the rolling hills and fertile pastures of the Driftless Area in southwestern Wisconsin, where the cows graze. This cheese is a testament to the American artisan cheese movement, showcasing the potential for high-quality, handcrafted cheeses in the United States.

Pleasant Ridge Reserve is made from raw cow's milk, sourced from the farm's own herd of pasture-raised cows. The milk is gently heated and then coagulated using traditional animal rennet. The curds are cut, stirred, and pressed into molds to form the cheese wheels. After pressing, the cheese is brined to develop its rind and then aged for a minimum of six months, though some batches are aged longer for a more intense flavor. During aging, the cheese is regularly turned and brushed to encourage the development of its characteristic rind and complex flavors.

Pleasant Ridge Reserve boasts a rich, nutty flavor with hints of caramel and a slight sweetness. The aroma is earthy and complex, with notes of grass and hay, reflecting the cows' pasture-based diet. The texture is firm yet creamy, melting smoothly on the palate. As the cheese ages, the flavors become more pronounced, developing a deeper, more savory profile.

Pleasant Ridge Reserve pairs beautifully with a variety of foods and beverages. Traditional pairings include crusty bread, dried fruits, and nuts, which complement its nutty and sweet flavors. For wine, try a full-bodied white like Chardonnay or a light red such as Pinot Noir. Beer enthusiasts might enjoy it with a malty amber ale or a crisp lager. For a more adventurous pairing, consider serving it with honey or a fruit compote to enhance its natural sweetness.