# Creamy Californian Cheeses Step Ladder Creamery's Big Sur Cheese Embodies the Location's Essence By Jana Pijak | Published 2024-03-06 | Lifestyle Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/step-ladder-creamery References: [stepladdercreamery](https://stepladdercreamery.com/products/big-sur)  Experience the essence of California's iconic coastline with [Step Ladder Creamery's](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/3step-gut-health) Big Sur, a decadent cheese named after the breathtaking location. The small format bloomy rind boasts an ash-coated exterior and a creamy blend of [goat's and cow's milk](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/laura-chenel). Its smooth texture matures gracefully, offering tangy and earthy flavors that delight the palate. Big Sur is perfect for [spreading on bread or crackers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/shuman-cheese-delve), baking in pastry dough, and can be added to burgers for an elevated dinner recipe. Step Ladder Creamery's Big Sur cheese can also be paired with light wines or crisp beers. Founded in 1870 as a cattle ranch, Stepladder has evolved into a diverse agricultural operation spanning 750 acres of free-range grazing land. Today, Stepladder continues to expand its offerings, producing over 200 varieties of citrus and subtropical fruits along with farmstead cheeses from its herd of goats and cows. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 1.2/10 - Popularity: 5% | Activity: 10% | Freshness: 22% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) > [Food](https://www.trendhunter.com/food) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **California Coastline-inspired Cheeses:** Innovative creameries are capturing the essence of iconic locations through decadent cheese creations. - **Gourmet Cheese Pairings:** Exploring unique cheese and beverage combinations is gaining popularity among culinary enthusiasts. - **Farmstead Cheese Evolution:** Traditional agricultural operations are diversifying into artisanal cheese production, expanding their offerings. ### Who This Affects Most - **Artisanal Dairy Products:** The dairy industry is witnessing a rise in artisanal creameries creating unique and flavorful cheeses. - **Culinary Experiences:** The food and beverage sector is embracing the trend of pairing gourmet cheeses with complementary wines and beers. - **Agricultural Diversification:** Traditional farms are venturing into cheese production as a means of expanding their product lines and revenue streams. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Savory Soft-Format Cheeses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/petite-garlic-pepper.md) - [Handcrafted Lavender Cheeses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lavender-cheese.md) - [Succulently Brined Cheeses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/softripened-goat-cheese.md) - [Truffle Goat Cheeses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/truffle-goat-cheese.md) - [Citrus Dessert Goat Cheeses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lemon-bar-chvre.md) - [Grass-Fed Italian Cheeses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/italian-lagorai-semisoft-cheese.md) - [Distinctive Creamy Blue Cheeses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rogue-river-blue-cheese.md) - [Dessert-Inspired Goat Cheeses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vermont-creamery-strawberry-spritz.md) - [Mediterranean Goat Cheeses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fresh-goat-cheese.md)