The World’s Freshest Cheese Curds Are Tucked Away Inside This Iconic Wisconsin Store

The clock is ticking on every cheese curd. When fresh curds emerge from the vat, they are squeaky, salty, and quite remarkable. But the magic of cheese curds leaves as quickly as it appears – if you buy a package of curds in the grocery store that's factory wrapped with a "best by" date, you might be disappointed. So if you love biting into a really fresh cheese curd, head right to the source: a cheese factory. In Door County, Renard’s Cheese produces the best fresh cheese curds and they are worth the drive. Here’s why.

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Renard’s Cheese is a longtime Wisconsin business that you’ll encounter as you head into Door County, one of the state’s top tourism destinations.

Renard’s Cheese was founded back in 1961 and it’s now in its third generation of cheesemakers. It’s currently owned by Master Cheesemaker Chris Renard and Ann Renard.

Today, the company produces millions of pounds of cheese every year, including classics like Cheddar, Mozzarella, and Muenster.

But what draws many visitors are the cheese curds. They are as fresh as they come, and are the perfect car snack when you’re out exploring Door County’s villages and beaches.

Renards sells fresh curds and a huge variety of cheese curds in its Sturgeon Bay retail store. It also sells gift baskets, which are hugely popular during the holiday season.

If you can’t decide what cheese to buy, you’re in luck - there are plenty of samples waiting for you. Find the perfect cheese, but be sure to also pick up some curds!

Complimentary cheese and wine tastings are offered daily at the store. Learn more about the business on the Renard’s Cheese website. There’s a lot to discover in Sturgeon Bay – it’s arguably the best small town for a weekend escape.