From the Cheese Portraits series.

"Hickory Grove" gave me the opportunity to paint another North Carolina cheese.  I brought this beautiful cheese back from my recent road trip, which had me traveling right through the Chapel Hill area.  Portia McKnight, co-founder of Chapel Hill Creamery gave me a lovely tour of their beautiful farm and making facility.  Her and partner Flo Hawley started the farm about 20 years ago, with a small herd of Jersey Cows. They're now  recognised as "animal welfare approved" by A Greener World.  

Hickory Grove is a farmstead, Trappist-style cow's milk cheese with a washed rind that offers just a hint of a mild funkiness.  This type of cheese is traditionally named after the monastery where it's made. Therefore, this cheese is named after the Hickory Grove Missionary Baptist Church at the head of their road.  They consider this cheese to be a well rounded, mellow flavored and good for any occasion.  I agree; it's not too funky, and it's certainly not boring.  It's absolutely delicious and the flavorful, buttery paste kept me sated while painting all day and I can't wait to melt some soon.  

Origin: North Carolina

Price: $550