Consumers are hungry for new flavors, and cheesemakers are only too happy to oblige, with new sweet and savory products to appeal to every palate.

One highlight of Carr Valley Cheese’s lineup of flavored cheeses is Wildfire Blue, which brings the perfect balance of mild blue cheese with a subtle kick of heat, said Elle (Fearing) Williams, Carr Valley’s director of sales and brand development.

“Wildfire Blue continues to be a customer favorite thanks to its perfectly balanced heat and creamy texture. Many consumers describe it as the ideal ‘gateway’ blue cheese, with enough heat to interest the flavor daredevils and comfort to the more heat-sensitive consumers.”

Another Carr Valley flavored fan favorite is Apple Smoked Cheddar, which is cold-smoked with applewood and hand rubbed with paprika.

The cold-smoking along with the addition of paprika gives a very soft smokey flavor, Williams said.

“I think customers enjoy this because you can taste the base cheese — it’s not overwhelming or overpowering. And that can be said about our whole flavored cheese line. Customers appreciate how these cheeses elevate everyday meals and entertaining experiences with unique flavor twists.”

Carr Valley also makes several flavored variations on its famous Bread Cheese, including garlic and pizza. Smoked cheeses and traditional varieties with a twist, like Cranberry Chipotle Cheddar, round out the lineup.

“They showcase our dedication to blending traditional cheesemaking techniques with innovative flavors,” Williams said.

Carr Valley’s flavored cheese offerings have evolved as consumer tastes have grown more adventurous, she added.

While the company has always worked from a foundation of classic artisan cheeses, it has also always looked to add bolder, globally inspired flavors to the mix.

Take Carr Valley’s Cheddar Gems, which date to the 1980s and were originally featured on salad bars in the South.

“Over time, we’ve introduced more daring flavors like Wildfire Blue, Black Sheep Truffle, and Black Truffle Blue to meet the demand for unique, culinary-inspired cheeses,” Williams said of the evolution of the Gems line.

Carr Valley is also closely tracking increased industry-wide interest in bold, globally inspired flavors and cheeses that pair well with craft beverages. Consumers are also looking for cheeses that can be the centerpiece of charcuterie boards or used in creative culinary applications.

“Carr Valley stays ahead by crafting innovative offerings by tracking trends and releasing new cheeses every single year, and 2025 will be no different — stay tuned.”

And Carr Valley’s commitment to using local milk from the coveted Driftless region of Wisconsin and artisan techniques ensures that every new flavor we introduce meets the high standards our customers expect, she added.