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Quick answer: Farm Country Cheese, located near Lakeview, Michigan, has produced fresh, antibiotic-free, artisanal cheeses since 1984. Featured on the Discover Montcalm Podcast, it’s known for supporting Michigan family dairy farms, using natural milk, and offering specialty cheeses like “Michigan Jack” and unique curds. Owned by Andrew and Nicki Arens since 2018, the company prides itself on quality, craftsmanship, and traditional handcrafting.
Key Takeaways
- Farm Country Cheese has crafted fresh, artisanal cheeses near Lakeview, Michigan, since 1984.
- They use antibiotic-free milk from naturally raised Michigan cows for specialty cheeses like “Michigan Jack” and unique curds.
- Andrew and Nicki Arens acquired the business in 2018, combining industry knowledge with a passion for traditional cheese making.
- The company prides itself on quality, craftsmanship, and supporting local Michigan family dairy farms.
- Episode 93 of the Discover Montcalm Podcast explores Farm Country Cheese as an example of local craftsmanship and community.
Farm Country Cheese episode 93
Farm Country Cheese episode 93
Farm Country Cheese, nestled a few miles from the charming town of Lakeview, Michigan, has been a beacon of artisan cheese production since 1984. Offering a delightful escape into the heart of rural America, this establishment embodies a true farm-to-fork philosophy, where craftsmanship and tradition converge to produce some of the finest Michigan dairy products in the region. Recently, the Discover Montcalm Podcast had the pleasure of visiting this beloved local establishment, providing listeners with an inside look at what makes Farm Country Cheese so special and unique.
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Discover Montcalm Podcast Explores Farm Country Cheese in Lakeview, Michigan TRADITION ~ HERITAGE ~ COMMUNITY
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Discover Montcalm: Farm Country Cheese in Lakeview, Michigan
The following is from Farm Country Cheese’s website: “For over 25 years, Farm Country Cheese has created fresh, antibiotic-free, artisanal cheeses. Our culture is supportive and kind, and we work together with the local Michigan farmers to bring the highest-quality and freshest cheese to you! We use milk made by cows that are naturally raised and antibiotic free, with absolutely no artificial hormones introduced in their diet. Farm Country Cheese is proud to say we support Michigan Family Dairy Farms, and the dedicated employees that work at the cheese house. People have come to know us for our large variety of specialty cheeses such as “Our trademark-Michigan Jack”, Dill, Hot Pepper, Horseradish, as well as our unique Cheese Curds.
In 2018 Andrew and Nicki Arens purchased Farm Country Cheese. As a dairy nutritionist and dairy farmer, Andrew wanted to combine his years of industry knowledge with a lifelong passion for agriculture and actualized the dream of purchasing Farm Country Cheese. We pride ourselves on the quality, craftsmanship, and a deep understanding that cheese making truly is an art. This homemade tradition means that when we are making our cheese, they prepare and blend all the 100% Natural Ingredients, with the freshest milk from our dairy farm, located in Portland Michigan and other local Michigan farms. Skill and art are applied to each cheese during the traditional handcrafting process. Our process is remarkably domestic, and sadly, quite uncommon in today’s manufacturing world. Each batch is made with no additives, hormones, or preservatives. As a result, the quality of our product is second to none. We are passionate about keeping authentic cheddar-making alive combining time-honored techniques with modern innovation. Farm Country Cheese is an example of how farming and food manufacturing can be integrated to create products with artistry and quality within a sustainable agricultural framework!”
SOURCE: https://
A Symphony of Flavors
One of the highlights of the podcast episode was the discussion about the variety of cheeses available at Farm Country Cheese. From mild and creamy cheeses to sharp and aged varieties, there’s something to please every palate.
Visiting Farm Country Cheese House
The Discover Montcalm Podcast’s visit to Farm Country Cheese is a celebration of local craftsmanship, community, and the rich traditions that make this region special. Whether you’re a cheese enthusiast or simply looking for a unique day trip destination, Farm Country Cheese located at 7263 West Kendaville Rd Lakeview, MI 48850, promises an experience that’s both educational and delicious.
About Discover Montcalm Podcast
Discover Montcalm Podcast is produced by Duane Weed. He started DW Video & Multimedia https://www.dwvideo.com in 1984. Today he runs the business and teaches Digital Arts at the Montcalm Area Career Center. Connect with Discover Montcalm to tell and share your story. Call 231-250-9624 to learn more and schedule an appointment. Check out all our past episodes https://
Feature Your Business on Discover Montcalm Learn about upcoming shows, how you can be a guest on the show and maybe even a sponsor. Contact Duane for more information. Call Duane 231-250-9624 Follow and subscribe
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Explore Farm Country Cheese in Lakeview episode 93
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Check out the podcast all about Montcalm County Michigan.
Sources & Methodology
This blog post, “Farm Country Cheese – episode 93,” was produced and authored by Duane Weed, the founder of DW Video & Multimedia, LLC, established in Howard City, Michigan, in 1984. As the host and producer of the Discover Montcalm Podcast, Duane specializes in creating engaging multimedia content that highlights the vibrant businesses, rich heritage, and strong communities across Montcalm County and wider Michigan. His extensive experience in video production, digital arts education at the Montcalm Area Career Center, and dedication to local storytelling ensures a commitment to accurate and compelling narratives about Michigan’s entrepreneurial spirit.
The information presented in this post is primarily derived from a firsthand visit and interview conducted by the Discover Montcalm Podcast team at Farm Country Cheese in Lakeview, Michigan. Direct quotes and factual details about Farm Country Cheese’s history, products, and operational philosophy are sourced from their official website and direct communication. The podcast’s methodology involves direct engagement with local businesses to provide listeners and readers with authentic insights into their operations and contributions to the community.
Publication Date: July 24, 2024
References:
- Farm Country Cheese Official Website: https://farmcountrycheese.com
- Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD): https://www.google.com/search?q=Michigan+Department+of+Agriculture+and+Rural+Development (For general context on Michigan’s agricultural sector and dairy industry standards.)
- Michigan State University Extension: https://www.google.com/search?q=Michigan+State+University+Extension+agriculture (For educational resources and research on local food systems and farming practices in Michigan.)
- Discover Montcalm Podcast Official Website: https://discovermontcalmpodcast.com (For additional episodes and information about local businesses in Montcalm County, Michigan.)
Beyond the Curd: Exploring Michigan’s Rich Dairy Landscape and Cheese Culture
While Farm Country Cheese stands as a beacon of artisanal excellence, it also represents a vibrant part of Michigan’s broader dairy heritage. Our state boasts a proud history of dairy farming, supported by organizations dedicated to sustainable practices and the welfare of local farms. Understanding this larger ecosystem enriches the appreciation for establishments like Farm Country Cheese, highlighting the collective effort that brings high-quality, farm-fresh products to our tables. The intricate process of artisanal cheese making, from selecting the finest milk to the careful aging that develops unique flavors, is a testament to both scientific precision and time-honored artistry.
For those eager to delve deeper, the experience of visiting Farm Country Cheese is a prime example of agritourism—a growing movement that connects consumers directly with the source of their food. These experiential journeys offer invaluable insights into the dedication behind local production and foster a deeper connection to our food systems. Imagine pairing a slice of their renowned Michigan Jack with a crisp hard cider from a nearby Michigan orchard, or a robust red wine from a local vineyard. Exploring these complementary local products not only enhances the culinary experience but also further supports the diverse tapestry of Michigan’s agricultural and craft industries, creating a truly authentic taste of our community.
