Sonnet Cheese

Sonnet cheese is a soft, artisan cheese originating from the United States, crafted from a blend of goat and sheep milk. This cheese is celebrated for its creamy texture and delicate, nuanced flavor profile that beautifully marries the distinct characteristics of both milk types. Sonnet cheese typically presents a soft, spreadable consistency with a thin, edible rind that may develop a slight bloom as it ages. Its appearance is often a pale ivory color, with a smooth, inviting surface that hints at its luxurious texture. Sonnet cheese is a testament to the art of blending milks to create a cheese that is both complex and harmonious, offering a unique tasting experience that is both rich and refined.

Sonnet cheese is a relatively modern creation, born out of the American artisan cheese movement that has flourished over the past few decades. This movement emphasizes small-scale production, high-quality ingredients, and innovative techniques, with Sonnet cheese being a prime example. While it may not have the centuries-old history of some European cheeses, Sonnet cheese embodies the spirit of American cheesemaking, which values creativity and the exploration of new flavors. Its development reflects a growing appreciation for the unique qualities of goat and sheep milk, and the desire to create cheeses that showcase these characteristics in new and exciting ways.

Sonnet cheese is made from a carefully balanced blend of goat and sheep milk, which is gently pasteurized before the addition of starter cultures and rennet to initiate curdling. The curds are then cut, drained, and molded into the desired shape, where they undergo a brief aging process. This aging allows the cheese to develop its signature soft texture and complex flavor profile. The cheese may be aged for a few weeks to a couple of months, during which time it is regularly turned and cared for to ensure even development. The result is a cheese that is both creamy and flavorful, with a delicate balance between the tanginess of goat milk and the richness of sheep milk.

Sonnet cheese offers a delightful interplay of flavors, with the tangy, slightly acidic notes of goat milk beautifully complemented by the rich, buttery undertones of sheep milk. Its aroma is fresh and inviting, with hints of grass and nuts that reflect the natural diet of the goats and sheep. The texture is luxuriously creamy, making it a pleasure to spread on bread or crackers. The flavor is complex yet balanced, with a lingering finish that encourages savoring each bite.

Sonnet cheese pairs wonderfully with a variety of foods and beverages. For a traditional pairing, try it with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir, which can complement its tangy and rich flavors. Beer enthusiasts might enjoy it with a Belgian-style ale that echoes its complexity. On the food side, Sonnet cheese is excellent with fresh fruits like pears and apples, or with a drizzle of honey for a sweet contrast. It also makes a delightful addition to a cheese board, accompanied by nuts and artisanal crackers.