Laura Chenel IT STARTED IN SONOMA COUNTY Laura Chenel started a new chapter in American goat cheese through her commitment to care, quality, and community. We're carrying the torch still from the heart of California wine country. 40 YEARS OF LOVE (AND GOAT MILK) In 1979, Laura Chenel began crafting her own farmstead goat cheese. Using techniques she learned in France and milk from her own goats, she became synonymous with quality and taste. This is her story. 1970s LOVE OF GOATS After spending 10 years working and studying in Europe, New York and the San Francisco Bay Area, Laura Chenel returned home to Sonoma County, undecided about her life’s direction. She was eager to return to the land so that she could be self-sufficient. As she was particularly concerned about eating and cooking healthy, natural foods, and having always been intrigued by goats, she decided to buy her first goats. As the herd continued to grow, Laura became attached to them. As the quantity of milk increased, she felt responsible for the milk and wanted to transform it into something that would pay tribute to its makers; therefore, she found herself drawn to cheese-making. Previous Next HOW WE CRAFT OUR CHEESE MILK FROM HAPPY GOATS The key to great cheese is the best milk. Laura Chenel only sources from family farms in the U.S.—California, Oregon, Nevada and Idaho. We partner exclusively with our farmers and provide support and technologies for happy goat and delicious milk. THE TASTE IS IN THE DETAILS Once we have the best milk, we rely on time and attention to detail to make great cheese. Our cheese team's skills are just as strong as their love of cheese. Every step, from setting the curd to draining (for the perfect consistency) and aging (for amazing flavor), is essential to the process. THE MAGIC HAPPENS HERE Located in the heart of Sonoma County, our state-of-the-art creamery keeps alive the traditions that our founder started four decades ago. We were the first creamery awarded LEED Gold certification in the U.S., and our commitment to sustainable practices, including solar energy and water recycling, helps preserve the terroir for future generations. read more FAMILY MATTERS We source only the best milk from family farm partners throughout the western U.S. read more AWARD-WINNING TASTE The judges have spoken—Laura Chenel’s products are among the world’s best, and that’s no surprise. Our high standards ensure only the finest cheeses and yogurts make it to your home. RECENT AWARDS View all awards (+) JOIN OUR TEAM Interested in a career with Laura Chenel? Drop us a line. submit Trade Press Contact Us Careers Privacy Policy