History of Our Industry

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Our Lady of the Angels Monastery is the youngest house of the Cistercian (Trappist) Order in the U.S. Having inherited the Benedictine tradition of combining prayerful work with the work of prayer, we began making cheese in 1990 as our means of self-support.

Each batch starts with fresh whole milk from grass-fed cows that have the good fortune of pasture-living. In return for fresh air and green grass, the dairy cow produces milk with extra nutrition and well-documented health benefits. Add Old World techniques developed in the Netherlands, and the goodness of this natural health beverage is captured in our handmade Gouda cheese.

Monastery Country Cheese is a semi-soft, mild and mellow Dutch-style Gouda available in 2 pound wheels. With its red wax coating and black-and-gold foil label, this wholesome cheese is an attractive holiday or hostess gift – and a healthy treat for your own table!