Joe Widmer makes his award-winning cheeses in the tiny town of Theresa, Wisconsin at the same plant his grandfather purchased in 1922. The plant, adorned with the flags of Swiss cantons, displays the pride that Joe takes in his family's Swiss heritage and cheesemaking traditions. He is a third generation cheesemaker and, like his father, grew up in the rooms above the plant. Joe believes that this devotion to tradition is one of the main reasons his cheese continues to be praised for its authenticity, handcrafted quality and consistency. He refuses to take any shortcuts, even using the same bricks his grandfather used to press the whey from Widmer's signature Brick cheese.
Brick is a Wisconsin original, and Widmer's Cheese Cellars is one of the few places that continue to make it in the traditional way. It is a semi-soft, washed rind cheese that develops more robust, pungent flavors the longer it is aged. Widmer has also received many awards for his aged Cheddars. They range in age from one to six years and become more sharp and complex as they mature, while still retaining a rich, creamy texture. Joe continues to learn as much as possible about his craft, completing the rigorous 3 year advanced cheesemaking program twice, earning the prestigious title of Master Cheesemaker in the Brick, Cheddar, and Colby categories.
Classic Provisions proudly carries the following cheeses from Joe Widmer:
Aged Brick
WB25 1 - 5 lb
Brick Spread
WB58 12 - 8 oz.
One Year Cheddar
WCR1YR5 1-5 lb.
WCR1YR40 1-40 lb.
WPC1 20-8 oz.
Two Year Cheddar
WCR2YR5 1-5 lb.
WPC2 20-8 oz.
Four Year Cheddar
WCR4YR5 1-5 lb.
WPC4 20-8 oz.
Six Year Cheddar
WCR6YR5 1-5 lb.
WCR6Y40 1-40 lb.
WPC68 20-8 oz.
Cheddar with Jalapeno Pepper
WPCHED1 10-1 lb.
WPCHED5 1-5 lb.
Some items are special order. Prices are subject to change.
Read about our previous featured Cheese Maker Tom Torkelson.