In a previous article, I talked about how I vacation in Vermont for about a week every Summer, and how I am in love with the "Green Mountain" state. Well, one tid bit of my annual vacations that I only briefly touched upon was how we always visit the Cabot Creamery outlet near Stowe. To me, it is more than just going to a store to buy cheeses and other merchandise; it is a tradition, an activity that is a must for not only myself, but everyone who comes up with us. When you walk in, you are met with a variety of odors from various forms of cheeses, wines, and natural products that derive from bees, like honey or wax. My first action when stepping into the store is to head straight to the cheese testing table. I grab a toothpick, stab a sample, and I try each of the flavors that are most appealing to me.
To be honest, Cabot's cheeses are absolutely incredible, and are, in my opinion, dairy masterpieces that everyone should at least try once. So, without further ado, I will be presenting a list of my top favorite 11 cheeses that I think everyone should go out and buy, not only from the outlets, but from local grocery stores.
1. Seriously Sharp Cheddar
This is the sharpest cheddar cheese Cabot offers, and it is, without a doubt, my number one favorite cheese.
2. Seriously Sharp Yellow Cheddar
Some people say that they prefer yellow cheddar over white cheddar, or vice versa. For me, I cannot tell the difference, taste wise.
3. Tomato Basil
I usually find that tomato basil cheeses and other dairy products have never really tasted that good before. However, this particular product quickly changed my opinion of the matter.
4. Monterey Jack
Cabot's Monterey Jack was much smoother than I originally thought it was going to be. Though, I would suggest buying packs that come in plastic wrapping over those available in parchment packaging.
5. Vermont Sharp
I am assuming it is just made from an original Vermont recipe, though I will not question it.
6. Sharp Extra Light (75% Less Fat)
Same sharp cheddar cheese with less fat and no change in delicious flavor.
7. White Oak Cheddar
This cheese, along with the other cheeses that are part of the Farmers' Legacy Collection, are aged for quite some time and often are chunky and a bit powdery. Though, this particular cheese is quite smooth and potent.
8. Farmhouse Reserve
This blend looks pretty similar to the White Oak cheddar, but it is less sweeter than the White Oak blend. Still pretty amazing, and is great with pretzel crisps.
9. Private Stock Cheddar
This cheese is part of the Founders Collection, which include the creamiest and richest tasting cheeses I have ever had the pleasure to consume. Private Stock cheddar is extremely potent, so be careful not to eat the entire block in one sitting.
10. Everything Bagel Cheddar
I admit, this is one of the more...bizarre cheeses available from Cabot. Still, it is definitely great tasting, especially on bagels, toast, or bagel crisps.
11. Smoky Bacon Cheddar
Bacon lovers, come one come all. This is the cheese for you, and quite honestly, for me. You may not be able to taste the chunks of bacon scattered throughout the cheese, but you will definitly get the full fledged flavor of smoky bacon that resonates throughout the block.
