Affinage: Techniques, Microbes and Facilities
Westminster Artisan Cheesemaking 131 West Parish Road, Westminster WestWeek of Events
Affinage: Techniques, Microbes and Facilities
This three-day workshop will explore the craft of cheesemaking, ripening, and grading cheese for sale, viewing the process from the point of view of the affineur. This combination of classroom instruction and discussion will include a trip to a local aging space for a tour of the facilities and discussion of affinage in practice. Topics include: Selection and Use of Ripening Cultures Bio-reactions between Microbes, Enzymes, and Cheese Components Affinage Techniques including Bloomy rind, Washed rind, Blue, Alpine, Grana, and Tomme Cheeses Cheese Grading and Quality Control, and Facility Design, Construction. and Maintenance of Cellars, Caves, and Brining/Drying Rooms Participants are encouraged to bring cheeses for tasting and evaluation. This session will be held in Westminster, VT. For availability, contact Rachel at Tel. 802.387.4041 or westminsterartisan@gmail.com Registration information and policies can be found here.
Advanced Cheesemaking with Peter Dixon
Advanced Cheesemaking is designed for cheesemakers who have or work for small-scale, licensed, commercial cheese businesses and want to expand product lines, experiment with new cultures and recipes, and improve quality. The focus is on making, aging, and controlling quality, and the session will revolve around hands-on cheesemaking and thorough discussion. Advanced sessions elaborate upon the information presented in the introductory series and accommodate the experience levels of the participants. Cost is $1200 for six day workshop. Participants are invited to bring cheeses for tasting and group evaluation. This session will be held at Parish Hill Creamery & Farm, Westminster West, VT. For availability contact Rachel at 802.387.4041 or email westminsterartisan@gmail.com Registration information and policies can be found here.