Celebrate American Cheese Month with Wisconsin Favorites from Heinen’s
When it comes to American-made cheese, Wisconsin often receives credit as “the cheddar state.” But during American Cheese Month, we’re thrilled to let you in on a little secret: Wisconsin cheese is so much more than cheddar. And, at Heinen’s, we’ve hand-selected some of the best cheeses for you to explore.
From creamy Alpine-style wheels and smoky, snackable cheddars to bold, flavor-forward Goudas, Wisconsin cheesemakers are redefining what this American classic can be. Whether you’re a passionate turophile or just starting your cheese journey, there has never been a better time to branch out and discover something new.
Fun facts: American Cheese, Wisconsin style
Before showcasing our featured cheesemakers, here are a few fun facts that make Wisconsin—and American cheese worth celebrating.
- Wisconsin produces more flavors, varieties, and styles (600+) of cheese than anywhere else in the U.S., with hundreds of styles inspired by European traditions and uniquely American innovation.
- Brick, Colby, and Butterkase. These delicious cheeses have strong Wisconsin roots—proof that the state’s specialties go far beyond cheddar.
- Wisconsin cheesemakers are known for their craft standards, often aging cheeses for years to build complexity, depth, and character. Wisconsin cheesemakers have won more awards than any other state or nation on the planet.
That dedication to quality is a big reason Heinen’s turns to Wisconsin when sourcing exceptional cheeses.
What “hand-selected” means at Heinen’s
Whether it’s mild, sharp, creamy, or pungent, we believe that delicious, specialty cheese doesn’t happen by accident.
Our Hand-Selected Cheese program is built on expertise, trusted partners, and an unshakeable passion for quality sourcing.
Every hand-selected cheese is carefully evaluated and selected for its:
- Outstanding flavor and texture
- Consistent quality
- Price point that delivers great value to customers
This thoughtful approach helps simplify our cheese collection—making it easier for both enthusiasts and beginners to choose with confidence.
Featured Wisconsin Cheese Makers at Heinen’s
Each of the following cheese brands brings something unique to the table—different styles, flavor profiles and stories that reflect the depth of Wisconsin cheesemaking.
Widmer’s Cheese Cellars
Time-honored craftsmanship with a range to explore.
Widmer’s is a Wisconsin icon, known for balancing time-honored techniques with adventurous flavor. Founded over a century ago, the brand’s lineup highlights everything from creamy, meltable cheeses to cheddars aged for more than a decade.
Find at Heinen’s:
Brick Mild, Brick Aged, Colby, Butterkase, Cheddar Jalapeño, Cheddar Matterhorn Alpine-Style, 4-Year Cheddar, 6-Year Cheddar, 15-Year Cheddar
Why try it: Butterkase is having a moment—and for good reason. Mild, silky, and endlessly versatile, it’s a great entry point for new cheese lovers and a sleeper hit for seasoned fans.
Eat Local Cheese
Bold flavor, approachable pairings.
Founded in 1961, Eat Local lives up to its name by blending crowd-pleasing styles with a creative edge. The brand’s award-winning cheeses are made for casual consumption and enjoyment—on a board, melted into recipes or straight from the fridge.
Find at Heinen’s:
Cheddar Gouda Parm Terrific Trio, Cheddar Gouda Delicious Duo, Black Peppercorn Cheddar
Why try it: The Eat Local lineup is known for celebrating our Great Lakes region cheesemaking heritage and flavor diversity.
Marieke® Gouda
Award-winning Goudas with personality.
Founded by Netherlands-born cheesemaker Marieke Penterman, this brand brings Dutch-style Gouda tradition to Wisconsin soil. Her authentic, hand-crafted cheeses are known for their rich, complex, and full character.
In 2024, Marieke earned the coveted Wisconsin Master Cheesemaker certification. She is the fourth woman to earn this highly respected title, a testament to her exceptional skill and dedication to the art of cheesemaking.
Find at Heinen’s:
Mature Gouda, Honey Clover Gouda, Gouda Holy Trinity, Mustard Gouda, Truffle Gouda, Hatch Pepper Gouda, plus Gouda Cheese Spreads (Classic, Hatch Pepper, and Honey Clover)
Why try it: From sweet to savory to boldly spiced, this lineup proves just how versatile Gouda can be. Incorporate any of these varieties to elevate your charcuterie board.
Heinen’s Hand-Selected Wisconsin Cheeses
Curated classics you can trust.
Heinen’s Hand-Selected Cheeses reflect the best of Wisconsin craftsmanship, chosen specifically for their balance of flavor, quality, and value. Our in-house specialty cheese expert, Anne Somoroff, personally tastes every cheese that comes into the department to ensure customers can access the best of the best.
Find at Heinen’s:
Medium Wisconsin Cheddar, Gorgonzola, Gorgonzola Crumbles
Why try it: These are everyday staples done exceptionally well. They are ideal for cooking, snacking, and entertaining.
Carr Valley Cheese
Award-winning flavors with a creative spin
Known for innovation and bold combinations, Carr Valley turns Wisconsin milk into cheeses that surprise and delight. Established over 100 years ago, Carr Valley is known for honoring the “old-fashioned” way of cheesemaking. The brand has achieved numerous awards over the years for their aged cheddar, cocoa cardona, and pepper jack varieties.
Find at Heinen’s:
Apple Smoked Cheddar, Maple Leaf Smoked Cheddar, Cranberry Chipotle Cheddar, Smoked Pepper Jack
Why try it: Smoke, spice, and sweetness make these cheeses perfect for grilling season, sandwiches, and standout cheese boards.
Celebrate American Cheese Month one slice at a time.
Many of these producers are proudly supported by the Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin, an organization dedicated to promoting the skill, care, and heritage behind Wisconsin dairy. It is one more reason you can feel good about exploring these cheeses during American Cheese Month.
Whether you’re rediscovering old favorites or trying Butterkase, Gouda, or smoked cheddar for the first time, Wisconsin cheese delivers something for every palate. Stop by our Specialty Cheese Department and celebrate American Cheese Month with a taste of Wisconsin. You just might find your new favorite.
