I.C.Y.M.I.: Canada’s Best Gouda Cheese Is Made In Alberta & You Can Visit The Cheese Farm Store

Nestled in the picturesque Alberta countryside, Sylvan Star Cheese is committed to crafting Gouda cheese that is second to none. Their dedication and passion for creating exceptional cheese have earned them numerous Canadian awards, including the coveted title of #1 Gouda, Extra Aged Gouda, and smoked Gouda. Their Extra Aged Gouda, lovingly referred to as "Grizzly" for its bold flavour, ranks an impressive #4 in the world.

Sylvan Star Cheese takes pride in their hands-on approach to cheese making. They carefully source the best ingredients and use time-honoured, traditional techniques to produce their exquisite Gouda. The milk used in their cheese comes straight from their own cows, which are raised and nurtured on their farm, resulting in a genuinely farm-to-table cheese experience.

A Cheese Lover's Paradise

If you're passionate about cheese, a visit to Sylvan Star Cheese Farm is an absolute must. Their farm store, located on Alberta Highway 11 between Red Deer and Sylvan Lake, beckons with promises of unparalleled flavours and artisanal craftsmanship. Open Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm, the store offers an array of Gouda varieties to tantalize your taste buds.

At Sylvan Star Cheese Farm, you'll find an impressive selection of their signature Gouda cheeses, each boasting unique and enticing flavours. Their herb cheeses come in tantalizing varieties such as Horseradish, Italian herbs, Nettle & celery, Onion, peppers & roasted garlic, Pesto garden mix, Caraway, Chive & parsley, Cumin, Dill, Fenugreek, Friesian clove, and Herbs & garlic. For those who prefer a bit of spice, the spices cheeses offer delightful choices like Cracked black pepper, Cayenne & green peppercorn, Green peppercorn, Jalapeño, Mustard, and Smoked chilli pepper. For those seeking something extra special, Sylvan Star offers Coconut, Beer & mustard, Smoked bacon, and Truffle flavours. And of course, the classic Gouda cheeses like Cheddar, Edam, Goat, Cow Feta, Goat Feta, and Cheese Curds will satisfy any cheese lover's craving.

Where to Find Sylvan Star Cheese

Apart from their farm store, you can discover Sylvan Star Cheese at various locations across Alberta. They are regular participants at several farmers' markets, showcasing their delectable cheese creations. You can find them at the Edmonton Downtown Farmers Market, Old Strathcona Farmers Market, Bountiful Farmers Market, Calgary Farmers Market South, and Calgary Farmers Market West. So, no matter where you are in Alberta, you're never far from experiencing the delightful flavours of Sylvan Star's Gouda cheese.

A Family Legacy

Sylvan Star Cheese Farm is more than just a cheese maker; it's a family legacy spanning six generations. Their cheese making journey began in The Netherlands, and today, they proudly carry on the tradition in the heart of Canada. The love for farming and the meticulous art of cheese making have been passed down through the years, resulting in cheese that embodies passion, pride, and perfection.

For cheese enthusiasts and food lovers alike, Sylvan Star Cheese Farm is a treasure trove of delightful flavours and heartwarming traditions. With their world-renowned Gouda cheese and a dedication to craftsmanship, Sylvan Star Cheese Farm has earned its place as Canada's best Gouda cheese producer. If you find yourself near Red Deer County, Alberta, make sure to stop by their farm store or visit them at one of the local farmers' markets. Indulge in the unforgettable taste of Sylvan Star's Gouda cheese, lovingly crafted from pasture to plate. From the finest herbs and spices to unique flavours and classic varieties, this is a cheese experience you won't want to miss!

Britanny Burr is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This content has been republished for the Great West Media & Southern Alberta Newspapers Hot Summer Guide advertising feature. The Hot Summer Guide is a special feature about summer activities, bucket list adventures, staycation options, road trips, attractions, events, and road trip-worthy food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.

This article was originally published on August 24, 2023.