In Longmont, Colorado, there’s no such thing as the “right” time for cheese, because every season is cheese season! From winter’s cozy comfort snacks to spring picnics, summer grazing boards, and autumn college sport tailgates, cheese is a delicious choice that pairs perfectly with the vibe and flavors in Longmont.
A Year-Round Cheese Lover’s Paradise
Longmont is home to Cheese Importers Artisan Cheese and Specialty Foods, a true destination for any “foodie.” Cheese Importers is a Colorado family-owned business founded in 1976. They offer local and imported cheeses, cured meats, specialty oils, spices, olives, chocolate, and other specialty foods. Their old-world retail store features Colorado's largest walk-in refrigerated cheese and cured meat market and a broad selection of European housewares and linens. Take a quick trip around the world when you enter the walk-in cheese cooler, stocked with over 500 varieties of cheese from Greece to France, Wisconsin to Norway and much, much more!
Learn the Art and Joy of Cheesemaking
Longmont is also home to the Art of Cheese, an artisan cheesemaking school. It's perfect for a gathering of aspiring home cheesemakers, a unique group experience, or people who just love cheese! Led by Kate Johnson, an award-winning cheesemaker and dairy goat farmer, The Art of Cheese is America's premier artisan home cheesemaking school for anyone who wants to learn the ins-and-outs of curds and whey. All classes usually take place at Briar Gate Farm and can also be customized to your group. Please visit The Art of Cheese Event Calendar for more information and a schedule of upcoming classes.
Farm-Fresh Pairings from the Longmont Farmers Market
Every Saturday from spring through late fall, the Longmont Farmers Market overflows with local products perfect for pairing with cheese. Imagine tangy chèvre from a Colorado creamery alongside just-picked heirloom tomatoes, or creamy Havarti served with a drizzle of local honey and delicious apples. Seasonal produce, such as tender and fragrant herbs in spring, juicy Colorado peaches in summer, and sweet winter squash in fall, provides endless inspiration for cheese boards and seasonal recipes.
Say “Cheese”! It’s Always in Season in Longmont
Here, cheese pairs as easily with fresh farmers’ market strawberries in June as it does with selected wines in December. It’s the star of summer picnics at local parks, a cozy companion to a fall football game, and the centerpiece of holiday feasts. In Longmont, every season has its flavors, and cheese makes them all better.
Season-by-Season Cheese in Longmont Pairing Guide
With a Special Monty the Longmonster pairing tip!
Spring — Fresh & Floral
Pairing Idea: Soft goat cheese or fresh ricotta with farmers’ market asparagus, microgreens, and a squeeze of lemon.
Beverage Match: A crisp Colorado Cider or sparkling water with herbs.
Monty the Longmonster’s Tip: “Add edible flowers from the market for a cheese board that looks as good as it tastes. It's Instagram-worthy and delicious!”
Summer — Bright & Juicy
Pairing Idea: Mild Havarti or creamy Brie with fresh Colorado peaches or strawberries. Add a sprinkle of basil or mint for a burst of freshness.
Beverage Match: A locally brewed wheat beer, refreshing!
Monty the Longmonster’s Tip: “Picnic at Roosevelt Park with your cheese board. Just don’t forget to pack extra napkins for those juicy peaches!”
Fall — Cozy & Savory
Pairing Idea: Sharp cheddar or nutty Gruyère with roasted or spiced nuts, and local apple butter from the farmers’ market or Ya Ya Farm & Orchard.
Beverage Match: A spiced cider or amber ale from one of Longmont’s craft breweries.
Monty the Longmonster’s Tip: “Perfect for tailgating at one of those CU or CSU sporting events! Wrap cheddar in puff pastry, bake it, and serve it warm while cheering for your favorite team.”
Winter — Rich & Comforting
Pairing Idea: Aged gouda or blue cheese with dark chocolate (from Robin Chocolates, perhaps?), toasted walnuts, and a drizzle of local Longmont honey.
Beverage Match: A whiskey with lots of character. Dry Land Distillers 100% Antero Wheat, made with a hard winter wheat grown less than 30 miles from the distillery.
Monty the Longmonster’s Tip: “Host a fondue night when the snow falls and use a mix of your favorite Colorado cheeses for a Rocky Mountain twist.”
