Who is your favorite cheesemaker in Atlantic Canada?

Atlantic Canada’s vibrant food scene has long celebrated local ingredients and artisanal craftsmanship. Among its treasures are the cheese producers who bring unique flavors to the table, carefully crafting small-batch cheeses that reflect the rich terroir of the region. From creamy chèvre to aged cheddars, these producers blend traditional techniques with local ingredients, making Atlantic Canada a growing haven for cheese lovers. Below, we highlight ten standout cheesemakers—including Knoydart—each with their unique specialties, flavors, and stories.

1. Annapolis Fine Cheese – Nova Scotia

Annapolis Fine Cheese, located in the scenic Annapolis Valley, crafts a range of artisanal cheeses using fresh local milk. Known for its commitment to sustainability and high-quality ingredients, Annapolis Fine Cheese creates offerings like a delightful creamy Brie and a sharp, flavorful cheddar. Their cheeses reflect the unique terroir of the valley and are a must-try for any cheese enthusiast exploring the flavors of Nova Scotia.

2. Cows Creamery – Prince Edward Island

Cows Creamery, famous for its iconic ice cream, also has a thriving cheese division. Their award-winning cheeses, like the Avonlea Clothbound Cheddar, embody the taste of PEI with their robust, complex flavors. Aged in natural caves, these cheddars develop a deep, nutty profile, making them perfect for cheese boards or recipes needing a touch of character.

3. Knoydart Farm – Nova Scotia

Nestled in the heart of Merigomish, Nova Scotia, Knoydart Farm is known for its organic and traditional approach to cheesemaking. Their cows graze on lush pastures, creating milk rich in flavor, which forms the base for their standout cheeses like the smooth and creamy Caerphilly. Knoydart’s dedication to sustainability and quality makes them a staple in Atlantic Canada’s cheese scene, with their offerings well-loved by locals and travelers alike.

4. Riverview Produce Farms & Fromagerie au Fond des Bois – New Brunswick

Located in Memramcook, New Brunswick, Fromagerie au Fond des Bois specializes in handcrafted goat cheeses. Known for their distinctive Chèvre and Feta, this cheesemaker highlights the rich, earthy flavors of goat’s milk, offering both fresh and aged varieties that have earned loyal fans throughout the Maritimes.

5. La Fromagerie Les Blancs d’Arcadie – New Brunswick

Situated in Caraquet, New Brunswick, La Fromagerie Les Blancs d’Arcadie is a small-scale producer creating traditional Acadian cheeses, including their famed Paillasson. Their dedication to preserving regional cheese traditions ensures that every cheese tells a story of Acadian culture and heritage, making it a must-try for any cheese enthusiast.

6.  5 Brothers Artisan Cheese – Newfoundland and Labrador

Five Brothers Artisan Cheese is known for its dedication to using only local Newfoundland milk to create high-quality artisanal cheeses. The Blanchard family operates this small-scale cheese production with a focus on sustainability and traditional methods. They are especially famous for their Avalon Cheddar, which is hand-cheddared and aged for at least 60 days, delivering a creamy texture with a mild tang. Their Smokey Avalon Cheddar adds another layer of flavor by incorporating applewood smoke.

7. That Dutchman’s Cheese Farm – Nova Scotia

That Dutchman’s Cheese Farm, located in Upper Economy, Nova Scotia, brings an international influence to the Atlantic Canadian cheese scene. Known for their Dragon’s Breath Blue, a creamy and bold blue cheese, they have won acclaim across Canada. Their farm-to-table approach ensures every cheese is crafted with love and dedication, drawing in visitors from near and far.

8. Jolly Farmer – New Brunswick

Jolly Farmer is a certified organic farm and dairy in New Brunswick, producing a range of raw and aged cheeses. Known for their commitment to sustainable farming, Jolly Farmer produces flavorful cheddar and feta varieties. Their organic practices and attention to detail make each cheese distinct, aligning with the growing demand for organic and locally sourced foods.

9.  Skye Glen Creamery – Nova Scotia

Run by Matt and Meghan Brosens, is a gem in East Skye Glen, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. This family-operated dairy uses rich, creamy milk from their own herd of Jersey cows, known for high butterfat and protein content. Their freshly made cheese curds have a distinct squeaky texture and are a favorite among locals. Visitors can also purchase their farm-fresh milk directly from their on-site vending machine, ensuring the freshest dairy experience possible​

10. Homestead Cheese- Nova Scotia

Located in Aylesford, Nova Scotia, is known for its high-quality Mediterranean-inspired products, particularly their flagship feta cheese. Established in 1985 by Nick and Susan Tziolas, Homestead started with a humble approach of selling door-to-door and has since grown into one of the largest independent cheese producers in the region. Their artisanal feta is crafted using traditional techniques, which give it a distinct, authentic taste. The company focuses on using fresh, local milk and supplies their products throughout Canada, including major retailers like Sobeys and Loblaws

Bonus:

Fox Hill Cheese House – Nova Scotia

Fox Hill Cheese House in Port Williams, Nova Scotia, combines over six generations of dairy farming with expert cheesemaking. Known for their array of Gouda and Havarti varieties, Fox Hill emphasizes quality and craftsmanship. They also produce an impressive yogurt and kefir line, showcasing the versatility of their high-quality milk.

Discovering Atlantic Canada’s Artisan Cheeses

From Nova Scotia to Newfoundland, each of these cheesemakers offers a unique taste experience that showcases the land, traditions, and creativity of Atlantic Canada. So, the next time you’re putting together a cheese board, consider adding some local flavor with a cheese from one of these talented artisans—whether you’re savoring Knoydart’s creamy Caerphilly or indulging in Dragon’s Breath Blue from That Dutchman’s Cheese Farm. And don’t forget to sample Annapolis Fine Cheese’s Brie or cheddar for a true taste of Nova Scotia.