Cheese Shops in Arizona

Most full-service, cut-to-order cheese shops allow customers to taste pieces before committing to a weight. Pre-packaged retail displays or smaller specialty markets generally do not offer samples unless they are hosting a scheduled tasting event.

Farmstead cheese is made on the same property where the milk-producing animals are raised, using only milk from that specific herd. Artisan cheese refers to cheeses made in small batches using traditional methods, but the cheesemaker may purchase milk from outside farms.

For a casual board served alongside other snacks, plan on two to three ounces of cheese per guest. If the cheese board is the main food item for a gathering, aim for four to six ounces per person across three to five distinct varieties.

Hanging weight is the weight of a slaughtered animal after skinning and evisceration, but before final trimming and dry aging. When purchasing a side or whole animal in Arizona, local processors charge based on this weight. Browse 8 meat processors across Arizona on ButcherAtlas to learn more about custom carcass purchasing.

To make sausage at home, chill high-fat meat and grind it, mix thoroughly with seasonings and ice water until sticky, then stuff into natural casings. Keep all equipment cold to preserve the emulsion and texture. For custom meat grinds and fresh casings, visit any of the 8 specialized meat markets listed across Arizona on ButcherAtlas.