Milawa Cheese Company: An Artisan Oasis on The Great Alpine Road
- A historic butter factory transformed into a celebrated fromagerie and cafe.
- Complimentary daily cheese tastings from a wide selection of cow and goat milk cheeses.
- The on-site bakery, The Milawa Kitchen, serves a range of gourmet pies, cakes, and breads.
- Enjoy a charcuterie board picnic on the lawn for the full experience.
- Ample parking available, making it an easy stop for drivers.
- Founded in 1988, it's a pioneer of the Australian farmhouse cheese movement.
- Don't miss the award-winning King River Gold, a distinctive washed-rind cheese.
- A perfect culinary detour on The Great Alpine Road drive.
The Great Alpine Road's Cheesy Detour
The Great Alpine Road is a journey of winding roads, breathtaking vistas, and the crisp, clean air of the Victorian High Country. It’s a drive that awakens the senses, and for the discerning traveller, it offers more than just stunning scenery. Tucked away in the heart of this region, in the small town of Milawa, lies a culinary destination that is as much a part of the High Country experience as the mountains themselves: the Milawa Cheese Company. After a spirited drive, there’s no better way to reward yourself than with a taste of place, and this artisan cheese factory offers just that.
The Driver's Arrival
Pulling off the main road and into the spacious car park of the Milawa Cheese Company is a welcome respite after a few hours behind the wheel. The heritage building, a former butter factory dating back to the late 19th century, exudes a rustic charm that immediately sets a relaxed tone. There’s a sense of stepping back in time, a feeling that is only enhanced by the surrounding greenery and the gentle hum of activity from within. For those who have been navigating the twists and turns of The Great Alpine Road, the ample parking and easy access are a practical blessing, allowing for a seamless transition from the thrill of the drive to the sensory delights that await.
A Legacy of Artisan Cheese
Founded in 1988 by David and Anne Brown, the Milawa Cheese Company is a true pioneer of the Australian farmhouse cheese movement. Inspired by a trip to Italy, they returned with a vision to create world-class artisan cheeses in their own backyard. What started as a passion project has since blossomed into a multi-award-winning enterprise, with their cheeses gracing the tables of some of Australia’s finest restaurants. The company’s commitment to traditional, hands-on techniques is evident in every wheel of cheese they produce. They use locally sourced milk from cows and goats, and their cheeses are made and matured by hand, a testament to their dedication to quality and flavour.
The Main Event: The Cheese
No visit to the Milawa Cheese Company is complete without indulging in a cheese tasting. The complimentary daily tastings offer a rotating selection of their finest creations, from creamy bries and tangy chevres to their signature washed-rind cheeses. The knowledgeable staff are on hand to guide you through the tasting, offering insights into the cheesemaking process and suggestions for pairings. For a more comprehensive experience, the tasting plate is a must. It features a generous selection of ten different cheeses, accompanied by grapes and biscuits, and is the perfect way to explore the full range of their offerings. The star of the show, however, is undoubtedly the King River Gold. This award-winning washed-rind cheese is a true masterpiece, with a golden rind, a soft, yielding interior, and a rich, almost smoky flavour that is both bold and buttery. It’s a cheese that commands attention and is a true reflection of the High Country’s terroir.
Beyond the Cheese: The Milawa Kitchen
Adjacent to the cheese shop is The Milawa Kitchen, an on-site bakery and cafe that is a destination in its own right. The aroma of freshly baked bread and pastries fills the air, and the display case is a tempting array of gourmet pies, cakes, and other sweet treats. It’s the perfect spot to refuel after a long drive, whether you’re in the mood for a hearty lunch or a light snack. The menu features a range of dishes that showcase the best of the region’s produce, with many of the dishes incorporating the Milawa Cheese Company’s own cheeses. For those who prefer to dine al fresco, the company offers picnic blankets, so you can enjoy a charcuterie board and a bottle of wine on the lawn.
The Verdict
For any driver on The Great Alpine Road, a stop at the Milawa Cheese Company is not just a recommendation, it’s an essential part of the journey. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the flavours of the High Country, where you can taste the passion and dedication of its artisans, and where you can create a lasting memory of your time in this beautiful part of the world. Whether you’re a seasoned cheese connoisseur or simply a lover of good food, the Milawa Cheese Company is a destination that is sure to delight.
Practicalities
Address: 17 Factory Road, Milawa VIC Opening Hours: Monday - Sunday: 9am to 5pm, cheese tastings from 9.30am - 4pm daily. Parking: Ample on-site parking is available.
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