Briana Cheese

Briana is a raw farmstead cow’s milk cheese crafted in the Whitewater Valley of southeastern Indiana by Jacobs & Brichford, one of America’s most beloved small dairies. Made in the style of Fontina Val d’Aosta, Briana is a washed-rind tomme aged 90 days. During its first month, the wheels are brined and washed to encourage rind and flavor development before being left to dry as they mature. The result is a semi-firm cheese that is nutty, herbaceous, and subtly fruity, with a creamy, elastic texture that makes it as approachable on a cheese board as it is irresistible in cooking.

Briana shines as both a table cheese and a melter. Pair it with honey, rustic breads, and nuts for a simple and satisfying board, or use its superb meltability to elevate grilled cheese sandwiches, fondues, or baked pasta dishes. When heated, Briana remains nutty and chewy, carrying through the deep, meaty notes of the farm’s grass-fed milk. Its mild yet complex profile makes it one of the most versatile farmstead cheeses to come from the Midwest.

Jacobs & Brichford was founded by Matthew Brichford and his wife Leslie Jacobs, who farmed 450 acres that had been in Matthew’s family for more than 200 years. After Matthew’s untimely passing in 2022, the creamery closed its doors, leaving Briana as one of the most enduring testaments to his vision and craft. Each wheel of Briana reflects his dedication to raw-milk, pasture-based cheesemaking and stands as a legacy of the passion and artistry he brought to American farmstead cheese.

• Pairings: Fruity Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, or farmhouse-style ales.