Berkhout Boerenkaas

Authentic Dutch cheese, specially made

TEXT: MICHIEL STOL | PHOTOS © CHEESEFARM BERKHOUT

The story began with a small farm, where cheese was made using leftover milk from its 15 cows. Almost 35 years later, Cheesefarm Berkhout has more than 180 cows and makes one the most ‘travelled’ cheeses in the world. “We honour the traditional craft and share it with the world,” say Marry and Ted Berkhout, who run the cheese making, along with Ted’s brother Nico, who runs the milk farm part of the company.

Cheesefarm Berkhout is located in Hoogwoud, not far from Alkmaar, where the famous cheese market is. “My parents started the farm in 1974. I joined them in my early 20s and, in 2005, Nico and I took over the company,” Ted continues. “We produce a wide range of smaller cheeses which are perfect as a gift. Not only is the cheese made from cow’s milk, but we also make sheep and goat’s cheese.” The cheeses are made with all kinds of flavours, like truffle and garlic. They also use different kinds of spices such as chilli pepper, and herbs such as nettle.

“A lot of people around the world have tasted our cheese,” explains Marry. This is because Berkhout’s cheeses are also sold at Schiphol Airport. “A lot of tourists come to the shop to taste authentic Dutch cheese, which we have made even more special. Our Ted & Marie range is very popular across the globe,” she smiles.

Knowing Berkhout’s cheeses are made at a traditional Dutch farm, where the famous Dutch cheese craftsmanship methods are used, gives them an even tastier flavour. “And everyone should enjoy that with us,” grins Ted.

kaasboerderijberkhout.com