Meramec Young presents a harmonious blend of buttery, nutty, and savory notes, underscored by an earthy, grassy character that adds a sense of freshness. A touch of saltiness enhances its flavor, while a faint hint of bitterness rounds out the experience without overwhelming the palate. The texture is dense, elastic, and firm, offering a satisfying bite that holds its structure well.
As you savor it, the cheese leaves a clean, long-lasting, and rich finish, with a bright and lively aftertaste that lingers pleasantly. While the profile is not overly complex, its balance and clarity make it a delightful choice for those who appreciate straightforward yet satisfying flavors.
The Farm
Grison Dairy Farm was founded in 1997 when Swiss immigrants, Heinz and Vroni Buff bought an existing dairy farm in Douglas County, Missouri close to Ava. Named after their native canton in Switzerland, Grison. Over the years, emphasis was placed on improving pasture and increasing yields. Care was always given to the environment, and the farm produces most of its own forage.
The Buff family believes the most economical and environmentally friendly way to produce milk is to allow the cows to graze on pastures. Their Cows Grison Dairy is home to both Holstein and Brown Swiss cows. Most of the herd consists of homebred cows. In the evenings, you can see the next generation grazing around the house. Emphasis is placed on breeding cows that combine milk production, milk quality, longevity, feed efficiency, with type and style.
The farm currently milks around 100 cows twice a day. And to the joy of the neighbors, the cows can be heard by the bells that they wear. Meet the Cheesemaker Grison Dairy & Creamery‘s cheese maker is Adrianne buff, who grew up on the farm. After completing high school, he went back to Switzerland to do a three-year apprenticeship program as a European dairy technologist.
While attending cheesemaking school for one day a week; he also worked for Napf Chäsi, in central Switzerland, on the other days. Napf Chäsi was very well-known in the area for producing mini specialty products, including cheese, yogurt, butter, bottled cream, and milk. Adrian enjoyed making the cheese most. Producing many different cheeses, including Quark, Brie, semihard, washed rind cheeses, Emmentaler, hard-washed rind cheese, and an extra hard cheese. At the end of three years, Adrian was tested in making the Brie and Emmentaler for his final exam.
