Rogue Creamery is an organic artisan cheesemaker from Central Point, Ore., that specializes in producing blue cheese, cheddars and more. Websterville, Vt.-based Vermont Creamery is an artisan cheese company that specializes in fresh and aged goat cheeses, and fresh cow cheeses.

Specialty cheese sales are on the rise, noted Rachel Kerr, director of events and public relations for Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board (WMMB), Madison.

 Natural cheese is still the clear winner for cheese processors, while snacking occasions are on the rise. Plus, consumers’ interest in unique flavors helps fuel the artisan cheese movement and inspires other processors to create more bold combinations.