State approves cheese-making license for Cornwall farm

Cornwall — Edgwick Farm, a small family-owned and operated farm in Cornwall was licensed on Nov. 22 by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets to make farmstead goat’s milk cheese in its recently constructed microdairy and creamery. The cheese-making facility is the first of its kind in Orange County. Production of cheese will begin in late January when Edgwick Farm’s dairy goat herd begins producing milk. Their cheeses will be sold at local farmers’ markets in the Hudson Valley. A ribbon cutting ceremony is planned for February. For more information about Edgwick Farm, contact cheesemaker Talitha Thurau at 845-401-2301 or edgwickfarm@gmail.com. Why goat milk cheese? The Photo News asked Talitha Thurau, Edgwick Farm’s artisan cheesemaker, why should people buy farmstead goat’s milk cheese? Here’s her answer: “First, it tastes amazing. The milk is produced right on farm so the cheesemaker can make sure it is of the best quality. This milk then is immediately made into cheese so that freshness is captured in the cheese.” “Second, we are your local farmers, we are producing this cheese for the consumer locally. By buying this cheese, you support and preserve and protect our efforts to make cheese on a small scale basis on our farm.” Why do we make farmstead goat’s milk cheese? “We are committed to sustainable farming. Our farm’s geography and size lends itself to goats. Our goats make great milk and that milk makes great cheese. We feel like we are artists. We want to share this wonderful product and our experiences with the Hudson Valley.”