Mariana Cheese

Mariana is a majestic natural-rinded tomme made from 100% sheep’s milk, aged for 3 to 6 months, and named for the shepherd herself: Mariana of Ms. J & Co. in Wisconsin. This award-winning cheese from Blakesville Creamery has a paste that’s milky, clean, and citrusy with bright notes of lemon curd and sweet cream. Its natural rind brings an earthy, gently barnyard aroma that balances beautifully with its creamy, complex flavor. Thanks to the richness of sheep’s milk, Mariana has a lush mouthfeel without being overly heavy. Its well-structured flavor profile makes it perfect for cheese boards, pairing with nuts, jams, and crusty bread, or shaving over salads and roasted vegetables.

Since its founding in 2020, Blakesville Creamery in Port Washington, Wisconsin has become one of America’s most acclaimed young cheesemakers. A true farmstead operation, Blakesville raises its animals, produces its milk, and makes all its cheese on the same property just off Lake Michigan. The farm was transformed by Lynde Uihlein from a multigenerational dairy cow farm into a sustainable dairy with a state-of-the-art creamery, led by accomplished cheesemaker Veronica Pedraza. Their commitment to sustainable farming, humane animal care, and slow, careful cheesemaking has made their cheeses beloved nationwide.

• Pairings: Sauvignon Blanc, Grüner Veltliner, sparkling wines, or a bright farmhouse ale
• Awards: 2025 ACS 1st Place, 2024 ACS 1st Place (Sheep’s Milk Cheese Aged Over 60 Days)