Big Eds (Saxon Homestead Creamery, Cleveland, Wisconsin)

The Kelssig family have farmed here since the 1850s, having emigrated from Germany; the present family members run the dairy farm and the creamery producing five different varieties of cheese, all made with unpasteurized milk. Big Eds, named after the founding father, is 7 kg (15½ lb) of buttery texture with a mild, sweet hazelnut taste that is instantly enjoyable. It has a joyous appeal, which is especially good for those hesitantly entering the world of artisan unpasteurized cheese tasting and is a true family favourite. The cheese is ‘cooked’ in the Asiago and Emmental style, pressed and ripened for 120 days although it can mature on up to six months. It is very versatile as both a table and cooking cheese.