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Redwood Hill Farm & Creamery, based in Sebastopol, Calif., gives new meaning to a “cameo appearance.” At this year’s California State Fair California Cheese Competition, its Cameo — a semi-soft Camembert-inspired bloomy rind cheese delicately covered with a variety of fresh herbs and dried spices, including fresh thyme and pink peppercorns — was awarded “Best in Show” along with “Best in Division.”

In addition to the two top distinctions, all of Redwood Hill Farm’s chevres were recognized with awards. Three Peppercorn Chevre and Garlic and Chive Chevre both earned gold medals in the soft goat cheese category. More accolades were bestowed upon Redwood Hill Farm’s Roasted Chili Chevre and its Traditional Chevre, which both received silver medals. To win a gold medal a cheese must receive a score of at least 95 percent; a silver medal requires a minimum of 90 percent. Cheeses are judged on aroma (10 percent), texture (20 percent), appearance (20 percent), and flavor and finish (50 percent). The competition included 140 entries that represented the very best in California cheesemaking.

"We take great pride in creating fine cheeses with all of these important attributes, and we are honored that the judges selected Redwood Hill to take home these top awards,” says Redwood Hill Farm Owner Jennifer Bice. “It’s exciting to be part of a dedicated group of artisan cheesemakers in California.”

Cameo has a mild, buttery flavor and firm texture when young, becoming softer and more complex with age. It pairs beautifully with fresh, crisp apple — especially the Gravenstein variety grown in Sonoma County. All of the chevres are soft and spreadable with a light texture that is similar to cream cheese, but softer and fluffier, with one-third of the fat and calories. The company suggests spreading the natural chevre on toasted rustic bread and drizzle with honey.

Roasted Chili Chevre and Three Peppercorn Chevre, a Redwood Hill Farm family favorite, have vibrant flavor profiles that are best appreciated when paired simply with good rustic bread or a plain, crisp cracker. Garlic and Chive Chevre is excellent as a stand-alone with rustic bread and crackers. Pairing this mild, savory chevre with sweet fresh berries, grapes and apples creates a layer of complexity and eating enjoyment.

For more information, visit www.redwoodHillFarm.com.

Source: Redwood Hill Farm & Creamery Inc.