REASONS TO VISIT THE COUNTY #3:
Delicious cheese made here
In 1874 there were over 26 cheese factories in Prince Edward County. Though that number has dwindled, cheese production and consumption are still a large part of Prince Edward County culinary fame.
Cheese and dairy farming became a way for farmers to bolster their income during the boom days when barley and brew-making was a major industry on the island.
The last remaining cheese factory from the “boom days” is Black River Cheese Company. Now a 110-year-old County staple, Black River recently won the top national prize for its mild cheddar at the Canadian Cheese Grand Prix hosted by the Dairy Farmers of Canada. Their wide variety of cheese uses only animal-free rennet, and can be purchased at their picturesque factory in Black River, or at select stores.
Nestled on 20 acres of agricultural land on the eastern ridge of the island, is the County’s other cheese-making pioneer. A mere three years old, Fifth Town Artisan Cheese is putting Prince Edward County’s artisanal name on the map. Fifth Town uses only local, fresh (not frozen) sheep’s and goats milk, and has won over 20 awards for their cheese and sustainability initiatives since opening. The 4,800-square-foot, Platinum LEED certified Fifth Town dairy processing, retail and educational facility is one of a handful of green dairies in North America. This, combined with its herb gardens, (Re)Source Pavilion (an outdoor learning facility), the sumptuous tasting room and self-guided green building tour make Fifth Town a must-see (and taste) destination in Prince Edward County.
