TILLAMOOK, ORE. - The Tillamook County Creamery Association (TCCA) has released Maker's Reserve 2011 and 2018 vintages into their Maker's Reserve program. These cheeses are part of a broader assortment of Maker's Reserve Extra Sharp White Cheddar vintages available this year, including 2015, 2016 and 2017.
"Tillamook® Maker's Reserve is a true testament to our passionate craftsmen and women," said Jill Allen, director of product excellence for TCCA. "We make these exceptional Extra Sharp Cheddars with pride, passion and a double dose of patience for truly unforgettable flavor."
Only a small selection makes the cut for this exclusive program, whose vintages have garnered accolades and awards from the American Cheese Society, the US Champion Cheese Contest and the International Cheese Awards, according to the company.
Each cheese in the Maker's Reserve program is unique, according to the company. Bold and nutty on the nose, the 2018 vintage has flavors of sweet malt and barley balanced with grassy notes and leek. Short and crumbly, with intermittent crystals and a shattering texture, salty hints of umami and toasted walnuts are unmistakable.
Full of sweet fruity notes of apple, honey and pineapple, 2011 Maker's Reserve has a generous smattering of large, crunchy crystals and a texture that's short and dry; this one finishes with grassy flavors and creamy accents. A decade in the making, this cheese will be exclusively available for purchase at Whole Foods Market stores across the country beginning in May.