Embarking on a Scenic Journey to Amish Cheese Maker Goot Essa
Last year, I had the pleasure of exploring the renowned Goot Essa Amish cheese farm, and I’ve been eager to share these memorable moments and photos with you. Accompanied by my good friend Ben Riehl, we embarked on a picturesque 2.5-hour road trip from Lancaster County, weaving through the charming valleys of central Pennsylvania. This journey was a perfect blend of scenic beauty and cultural immersion.
The route took us through several valleys known for their vibrant Amish communities. One such breathtaking landscape was Penns Valley, where we paused at the beloved Amish farm stand Spring Bank Acres, a spot I previously highlighted in a dedicated post. These valleys, with their lush greenery and traditional Amish farms, create a captivating backdrop for our adventure.
Discovering Goot Essa in Nittany Valley
Located in the serene Nittany Valley, also affectionately called “Happy Valley,” Goot Essa is nestled deep within the landscape. The owner, John Esh, welcomed us warmly, sharing his community’s story, his passion for cheese-making, and much more during our engaging interview last year. His insights provided a deeper understanding of the Amish lifestyle and the artistry behind their cheese production.
Approaching Goot Essa, we followed a narrow, well-marked lane that led us into the heart of the valley. Helpful signs along the way guided us directly to the farm, building anticipation for what was to come. As we drew closer, the welcoming sight of the farm’s entrance appeared, signaling the start of our memorable visit.
Arrival and Cheese Tasting Experience
Upon arrival, John greeted us with genuine warmth and immediately invited us into the on-site store for an authentic cheese tasting experience. This hospitality is a hallmark of Goot Essa’s approach, and I eagerly accepted the invitation. The tasting board displayed an array of cheeses and complementary condiments, promising a delightful exploration of flavors.
John’s expert guidance helped us appreciate the nuanced flavors of each cheese, as he described the distinct taste profiles with vivid language. It was fascinating to witness how each cheese offered a unique experience, from mild to bold, creamy to firm. We sampled almost everything on the line, immersing ourselves in the rich world of Amish cheese craftsmanship.
Exploring the Cheese Varieties and Pairings
The display featured a diverse selection, including:
- Der Weichen Gehl (Camembert-style)
- Der Vauden (Swiss)
- Der Alpen Kase (Hard Alpine style)
- Der Smoked Alpen Kase
- Mountain Home Woodsmoked Cheddar
- Garden Pepper Jack
One particular favorite of mine was Butta Schaf. Despite being a sheep’s cheese, it defies expectations with its rich, approachable flavor. The description from Goot Essa captures its essence beautifully:
“Goot Essa Butta Schaf Cheese is an all-natural, gourmet cheese crafted from raw sheep milk. This traditional Amish recipe produces an artisanal, full-bodied hard cheese reminiscent of pecorino, with subtle hints of earth tones and a flavor profile that hints of acorns, complemented by a natural pecorino bite.”
This cheese’s clean, natural bite was a highlight for me, embodying the perfect balance of flavor complexity and smoothness.
Shopping for Cheese and Gifts
The shop offers a variety of gift baskets suitable for holidays or special occasions, along with single packs of cheese and condiments. They also provide subscription plans for regular deliveries of their finest cheeses, making it easy to enjoy Goot Essa’s products year-round. For a peek into their cheese-making process, a window in the store reveals the bustling activity within the production area.
John demonstrated the meticulous process behind their cheeses, explaining how factors such as pH levels and aging conditions influence flavor and texture. It’s a fascinating blend of art and science, showcasing the skill and dedication of the Amish artisans.
A Peek into the Cheese Caves and Final Farewell
We also toured the cheese aging caves, where wheels of cheese mature over time, developing their complex flavors. Here’s a shot of Ben inside one of the cool, cavernous rooms, surrounded by shelves laden with aging cheese wheels—a truly captivating sight.
As we prepared to leave, I captured the picturesque farmstead and the stunning sunset over the valley—a perfect end to a remarkable day.
Goot Essa’s offerings are ideal for holiday gatherings, gifts for friends, or simply indulging in high-quality Amish cheese. Their gift baskets make excellent presents for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, and their subscription plans ensure a steady supply of delicious cheeses.
Stay tuned for our upcoming post featuring a deeper dive into the cheese caves, as well as John’s top 10 cheese pairings—a must-read for cheese aficionados!