Kiss of Kerry

"Kiss of Kerry" is a creamy farmhouse cheddar made with Kerry cow's milk by farmer/cheesemaker extraordinaire Adam Dean of Pasture Maid Creamery, located in New Castle, Pennsylvania.

Typically aged only 3 or 4 months, "Kiss of Kerry" is quite creamy and mild - although the Kerry cow's milk used in this cheese gives a hint of tang to its aftertaste. As a breed, Kerry dairy cows are generally considered to be quite rare. The breed originated in Ireland and was first introduced to America in the early 1800s.

Due to its mild and melty nature, "Kiss of Kerry" is among the most popular cheese we carry at Family Farm Creameries. We often hear of it being used in grilled cheeses - sometimes with the addition of onions, apple slices and spicy homemade jams, like those made by our friends Ed and Maggie at Steve's Deli. The next time you're visiting us in the Strip, be sure to take a peek across the aisle - that's where Ed and Maggie make the magic happen!

If you're into assembling cheese platters, don't forget "Kiss of Kerry" there either. Executive Chef Steve Snyder of Tender Bar + Kitchen loves "Kiss of Kerry" and includes it on Tender's cheese plate alongside wild berry-rosemary preserves, house-pickled vegetables and a baguette.

Personally, I enjoy savoring "Kiss of Kerry" in true Irish fashion - straight-up with a pint of stout. (For a wine-friendly pairing, go for a dark and fruity Malbec with a spicy, earthy finish.)