Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Company has been making this stunner since 2000. The Giacomini family's dairy cows graze on organic pastures just a few miles from the Pacific, and you can taste that coastal terroir in every bite.

This is blue cheese for people who think they don't like blue cheese—approachable, with a mellow sweetness that builds into peppery spice. The signature blue-green veins create pockets of earthy intensity without overwhelming the rich, buttery paste.

Pair it: Local honey and walnuts, sliced pears, or crumbled over a juicy burger. It's magic with a glass of Cabernet or port.

Make it: Here is Delish, coming in with even more great recipes. Sometimes it’s easy to get stuck on the “throw it on a salad” kick, but try something new.