Lilian by Parish Hill Creamery

Think Alpine but more ocean forward. Get it? Because it’s from California!

Parish Hill is one of those creameries that makes you want to quit your job and become a cheesemaker (or is that just us?). They're up in Vermont making some of the most thoughtful, gorgeous cheeses in America, and Lilian is their love letter to Alpine-style cheeses. Named after founder Rachel Schaal's grandmother, this raw cow's milk beauty is aged for at least 6 months and has all those complex, nutty, fruity notes you want in a winter cheese. It's the kind of cheese that makes people stop mid-conversation and go "wait, what IS this?" Parish Hill is tiny, they're meticulous, and honestly, they're making some of the best cheese in the country right now.

Tasting Notes: Rich, nutty, fruity, with hints of brown butter and toasted hazelnuts. Firm but creamy texture, those gorgeous tyrosine crystals (yes, again, we're obsessed). Basically tastes like a cozy cabin in the woods, but in cheese form.

Pairing Vibes: This is your "fancy dinner party" cheese. Pair it with a bold red wine (Cabernet, Syrah, go for it), aged cider, or even a nice bourbon if you're feeling adventurous. Loves stone fruit preserves, honey, and roasted nuts. Also AMAZING melted (hello, fancy grilled cheese or fondue situation). Put this on a board with some dark chocolate and watch it disappear.