Garden Variety Cheese

Situated in Northern Monterey County, our cozy farmstead, Garden Variety Cheese, occupies a serene 40-acre plot known as Monkeyflower Ranch. In operation since March 2009, we specialize in commercial milking and cheese production. Our sheep are the cornerstone of our products, providing rich, sweet milk that transforms into exceptional cheese and yogurt. We hold our animals in high regard, naming each ewe after a beloved garden flower.

The ewes on our farm are seasonal milk producers, each giving milk for approximately six to ten months annually. By staggering the breeding cycles of our 80 ewes, we can offer fresh milk for yogurt consistently throughout the year. Emphasizing a natural and sustainable approach, our milking ewes graze on fresh pasture, alfalfa hay, and organic brewer's grain sourced from Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing, along with organic grain from Modesto Milling.

Our farming practices eschew chemical wormers or antibiotics, opting instead for rotational grazing, concentrated garlic juice, and other natural methods to maintain the well-being of our flock. This dedication to natural farming results in both healthy animals and high-quality milk and cheese at Garden Variety Cheese.