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Category Archives: News
Fondue at 40 Knots Winery in Comox Valley
Elevate your Fridays with the enchanting experience of Fondue at 40 Knots Winery! Picture yourself surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of our vineyard, nestled in the warmth of their glass-enclosed Aurora Vineyard Terrace. Immerse yourself in the indulgence of Fondue Fridays as they proudly showcase a delectable spread featuring the finest local ingredients.
Owners Layne and Brenda Craig are dedicated to producing clean, ethical wines that reflect the terroir of Vancouver Island. Their commitment to sustainability and quality has made 40 Knots a beloved destination for both locals and visitors, offering a welcoming atmosphere to enjoy exceptional wines and the serene vineyard setting.
Dip into our exquisite Natural Pastures Fondue cheese blend, accompanied by a selection of local delights:
- Honey Grove Bakery baguette
- The Pretzel Guyz pretzels
- Conscious Crackers (GF/Vegan)
- Tart Granny Smith apples
- Sweet bell peppers
- 40 Knots pickled grapes
- The Butcher’s Block cured meats
At 40 Knots, they embrace the philosophy that “what grows together goes together.” This approach highlights the harmony between our locally crafted cheeses and the bounty of Vancouver Island’s produce. The fondue night features Natural Pastures Cheese Company’s artisan fondue, made right here in the Comox Valley using milk from Vancouver Island cows. This commitment to local sourcing ensures a fresh and flavorful experience that truly embodies the essence of our region.
Here are some HELLO’s and intro’s from the staff! Photos to come I hope! Check back!
Edna is our Event and Decor Specialist at 40 Knots. She is your go to person for booking and helping with your celebration here at our Vineyard. She can be found decorating our beautiful venues or assisting with a wedding in progress and always with a smile on her face.
Hey I’m Kelem, I am the winemaker here at 40 Knots. The synergies of working at 40 Knots Winery and being located where we are on Vancouver Island coincides with my personal beliefs of living a pure life symbiotically with nature and all the beauty it has to offer, including grapes of course.
Hi! I’m Tara. I’m a chef and have had several opportunities to make meals at 40 Knots Winery. Successful wine pairing will enhance the dining experience- potentially enhance the dining experience- potentially heightening flavours, textures and qualities in the food. I like to encourage our customers to be more adventurous with their meal planning by providing confidence that their selections will work well together, creating a more memorable experience. Our wines will change how you perceive the taste of your food and your food will change how you perceive the wine!
Hey, I’m Kat. You will find me in the tasting room conversing with our guests, doing lot’s of tastings,and eating lots of Natural Pastures cheeses. I am lucky to be able to work in such a beautiful place and I am grateful for the opportunities to interact and meet new people.
Join 40 Knots Winery for Fondue Fridays and savor the perfect pairing of local flavors in a setting that celebrates the beauty and bounty of our community.
2024 prices are as follows – click to book! Seats are limited.
Unveiling the Charcuterie Wedding Cake Trend: An Inside Look at Spoon & Spade
By Anyssa Jane
In recent years, the traditional wedding cake has met its match: the charcuterie wedding cake. This delightful trend is capturing the hearts (and taste buds) of couples looking to make their big day uniquely memorable. At the forefront of this delicious movement are Toni and Katie, the dynamic duo behind Spoon & Spade, a small female-owned charcuterie business based in Victoria, Vancouver Island. Their commitment to “farm to table” principles ensures that each charcuterie board not only tastes amazing but also supports local producers and promotes sustainability.
Gone are the days when a multi-tiered, sugar-laden cake was the only option for a wedding centerpiece. Today, many couples are opting for charcuterie wedding cakes, which offer a delectable array of aged and fresh cheeses, cured meats, and gourmet accompaniments. This trend reflects a broader cultural shift towards celebrating food that is both artisanal and aesthetically pleasing.
One of the primary benefits of a charcuterie wedding cake is its versatility. Unlike traditional cakes, which cater to those with a sweet tooth, charcuterie cakes can appeal to a wide range of palates. They can be customized to include a variety of flavors, from creamy Natural Pastures Comox Brie, as found beside other local artisanal delights in the cake above, to spicy salami and savory prosciutto. This ensures that every guest finds something they love. Additionally, these cakes are perfect for pairing with wine, adding an extra layer of sophistication to the celebration.
Founded in 2020 by Toni and Katie, Spoon & Spade has quickly become the go-to gourmet charcuterie company in Victoria, Vancouver Island. This female-owned business prides itself on creating beautifully crafted charcuterie boards that elevate any occasion, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations. They each bring unique skills to the business: Toni with her Culinary Arts diploma and Katie with her artistic touch and a joint passion for florals and design, making them stand out in the event business.
At Spoon & Spade, the belief is that food brings people together. Their gourmet grazes and event tables include custom-made spreads, jams, jellies, and mustards, all made with the finest ingredients. As more couples embrace the charcuterie wedding cake trend, businesses like Spoon & Spade are at the forefront, offering delicious and visually stunning alternatives to traditional wedding cakes. Toni and Katie’s dedication to quality, sustainability, and local products makes their charcuterie creations a perfect reflection of today’s cultural values.
Natural Pastures Cheese Strikes Gold at the Royal Winter Fair 2023 with Bufetta – A Water Buffalo Milk Delight
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
COURTENAY, BC, CANADA — January 9, 2024
Natural Pastures Cheese, a renowned artisanal Canadian cheese producer located in Courtenay, British Columbia, is thrilled to announce its recent triumph at the prestigious Royal Winter Fair in Toronto. The esteemed competition, held in 2023, saw Natural Pastures Cheese’s Bufetta, a delectable water buffalo milk product, clinch the Gold Medal in recognition of its exceptional quality and flavor. Since November 1922, Toronto has held the annual Royal Agricultural Winter Fair which is a tribute to Canadian agriculture. Held annually at the Canadian National Exhibition grounds, it has been considered the world’s largest indoor agricultural, horticultural and equestrian fair.
Bufetta, crafted with precision and care, exemplifies Natural Pastures Cheese’s commitment to sourcing the finest ingredients and employing traditional cheese-making techniques. Made with non-GMO, grass-fed water buffalo milk, and “BC Dairy” cow milk (made with 70 % Water buffalo milk and 30% Cow milk) Bufetta boasts a distinct profile that sets it apart from your average feta. The rich, creamy texture and unique flavor have made it a sought-after choice among chefs and food enthusiasts.
The heart and soul behind Natural Pastures Cheese’s success lie in the expertise of its master cheese maker, Paul Sutter, of Swiss descent. With many years of dedicated service to the company, Paul Sutter has played a pivotal role in developing and perfecting the water buffalo products that have now earned them the prestigious Gold Medal at the Royal Winter Fair.
“We are truly honored and delighted to receive the Gold Medal at the Royal Winter Fair for Bufetta,” said Doug Smith – Operations Manager at Natural Pastures Cheese. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and passion of our team, particularly our master cheese maker, Paul Sutter. His expertise and dedication have been instrumental in creating exceptional water buffalo milk products. We extend our gratitude to the Royal Winter Fair for providing a platform to showcase the best in Canadian cheese.”
The Royal Winter Fair is renowned for its rigorous judging process, making Natural Pastures Cheese’s Gold Medal win a significant achievement. This accolade further solidifies the company’s standing in the Canadian cheese industry and highlights its dedication to producing exceptional artisanal cheeses.
For more information about Natural Pastures Cheese and its award-winning Bufetta, please visit [website link].
About Natural Pastures Cheese: Natural Pastures Cheese is a distinguished artisanal cheese producer located in Courtenay, British Columbia, Canada. Committed to crafting high-quality cheeses, the company focuses on using the finest ingredients and traditional cheese-making techniques to deliver exceptional flavors. Distribution is available through Lekker Food Distributors, Gordon Foods Services and select distributors across Western Canada and Ontario.
Media Contact: Media Contact Person’s Anyssa Jane – General Manager, Natural Pastures Cheese cheese@naturalpastures.com 250-334-4422
For other results:
2023 Goat, Sheep, Water Buffalo & Mixed Variety Cheese Competition
Show Results – The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair – 2023 (assistexpo.ca)
It has won Gold/ 1. Place in the category of Feta or Feta Style – Natural with or without brining
Water Buffalo Babies – Shaw TV Port Alberni
The water buffalo love their creature comforts. Cleaning and new bedding means they have to leave the barn. Which means they have to go outside. Check out this video from Shaw TV, on when they get moving. Filmed at Coleman Meadows in Port Alberni.
Our water buffalo milk comes from Coleman meadows and McClintock Farms here on Vancouver Island in British Columbia Canada!
Thanksgiving Cheese Sampler Selection
This Thanksgiving, savor the exquisite flavors of Natural Pastures Cheese products, knowing that your holiday feast would lack its essential touch without a sumptuous platter showcasing the likes of Bourenkaas, Aged Farmhouse, Courtenay Cheddar, Amsterdammer, and Cracked Pepper cheeses and Brie!
Its our pleasure is to curate an opulent selection of artisanal cheeses and complementary condiments for you, your beloved family, and cherished friends.
Our cheese selection encompasses a delightful diversity of options, but do note that some, such as Cracked Pepper, are available in limited quantities. Therefore, we recommend making your choice promptly to ensure you secure these rare treasures.
When your Thanksgiving day arrives, all that remains is for you to plate up your delightful cheese assortment on a beautiful board. Display them elegantly at your holiday table, and let the festivities begin!
This Thanksgiving, let the star of your feast be a captivating cheese platter that brings family and friends together. Secure your order today, and we have it ready for pick up in Courtenay for you Thanksgiving celebration.
Your Thanksgiving Sampler promises an extraordinary culinary journey:
$145 – pick up price ( shipping is extra )
- A generous selection of 5 cheeses, featuring the rich flavors of Bourenkaas, the rustic charm of Aged Farmhouse, the bold character of Courtenay Cheddar, the nuanced sophistication of Amsterdammer, and, if you’re lucky, the limited edition delight of Cracked Pepper. -+200 grams
- 2 Jars of Saltspring Kitchen Co. Candied Jalapeno Relish and Apple Fig & Fennel.
- As YOU Like It – Mango Chutney 125 ml
- Ladjager bites from Grimm’s 125G
- 2 bags of Jenny Marie’s Crackers 100 g each
- 1 tin of Wild Spring Salmon 160 g
- 1 Bulb of Garston’s Garlic ( we recommend roasting to have with Brie on crackers)
- Big D’s 50 grams of charcuterie honey
- Cheese Knife
- Additionally, you’ll receive a fact sheet detailing the cheese descriptions and suggested pairings with 40 Knots Wine.
- You may upgrade and add on as needed
recommended addon’s 200 G Natural Pastures Butter , Natural Pastures Fondue, Cheese Flight 6 mixed cheese rolls
Please bear in mind that we dispatch wedges of cheese approx 200g and while the exact cheese selections in your Sampler sizes may vary, rest assured that we will make every effort to include Bourenkaas, Aged Farmhouse, Courtenay Cheddar, Amsterdammer, and, Cracked Pepper. In the event of limited availability, we reserve the right to substitute any item with a product of equal or greater value. Your Thanksgiving celebration is our priority, and we want it to be a cheese-filled success!
This offer expires November 1, 2023 call for updates.
Celebrating the Power of Local
These are heady times. Masses of Canadians are staying in, working from home, and doing our duty to prevent the spread of COVID-19. It’s a scary time, but also a really uplifting one.
We’re seeing throngs of friends and neighbours discovering the power of LOCAL.
Our food producers and purveyors are responding to this situation with creativity, with kindness, and with heart. Here are some of our favourite businesses, both on island and off, and how they are responding to the crisis:
40 Knots Winery
Craving some social interaction? Fill your favourite goblet and your social quota chat with their online book club. Also offering free wine delivery to anywhere in BC & AB. 2400 Anderton Rd, Comox (855) 941-8810.
Comox Valley Farmers’ Market
The market has been moved to Comox Valley Exhibition Grounds (4839 Headquarters Rd; parking by the curling rink).
Hot Chocolates
Hard times require serious chocolate. Now offering online ordering & delivery service of their decadent chocolate treats. 368 5th St, Courtenay, BC (250) 338-8211.
Local Collaboration
Recently we’ve been impressed by how a local food group and a Courtenay restaurant have stepped up to help out. Lush Valley has gone into high gear to provide baskets of fresh food and groceries to families, with the School District using their bus for deliveries. And Guerrilla Pizza and Coast Environmental have spread the love by surprising our health care workers with pizza to help them through their shifts.
Langford Subway
The owner of Subway at 1016 McCallum Road in Langford is offering free meals to those in need. Drop by and ask for the “happy meal” and they’ll hook you up. (250) 478-5711.
Lentelus Farm Stand
Get your free-range meats, eggs, fresh sourdough bread, wildflower honey and fresh veggies at their Farm Stand. 1300 Comox Rd, Courtenay, BC (250) 218-4640.
Nanaimo Youth Services Association
On Thursday nights the NYSA is handing out free food boxes for young families in need. Also offering help to those looking to understand the new financial aid options for families in need.
290 Bastion St, Nanaimo (250) 754-1989.
Ox Chophouse
Looking to indulge in some truly elevated dining? You can now order takeout from Ox Chophouse on 2253 South Island Hwy #5, Campbell River (250) 926-0606.
Sooke Brewing Company & Route 14
This award-winning brewery has partnered with nearby @route14 for food and drink delivery each day. There are also beer kegs for purchase, with pumps to rent. Call 250 642-0106 or check them out on Instagram @sookebrewing. 2057 Otter Point Rd, Sooke, BC.
Discover Comox Valley Business Services Directory
“Comox Valley Economic Development & Tourism is providing a tool for local businesses including restaurants, retail service providers, farm markets/stands, and winery/brewery/distilleries to outline their current services being offered, in one common location.”
https://discovercomoxvalley.com/discover/explore/supporting-comox-valley-businesses/
There are so many more locally and further away who are responding to this situation in amazing ways. We wish we could list them all, but we are proud to be part of a network of businesses and people who put their community first.
For ourselves, we are still open for business. We are offering $5 delivery in the Courtenay area.
To order: call 250-334-4422, extension 4.
Or email: cheese@naturalpastures.com.
Orders can be pre-paid by phone or we can accept payments by credit card at the door. Pickups can also be made at 635 McPhee Avenue, Courtenay.
We offer a huge shoutout to our fellow small food producers for using online ordering & offering contactless delivery methods that are safer for everyone during this time: 😍 .
Have a new favourite way to enjoy local food? Tag your local food producer in the comments!
Meet the Contenders
With 43 international awards in cheese making since 2002, we’ve found ourselves in great company. From the World Cheese Awards to Canada’s own Royal Agricultural Winter Fair – we’ve been making a name for ourselves across the globe.
We may have become known internationally, but our approach remains as homey as ever: the Comox Valley produces the best cheese on earth. But, you don’t have to take our word for it.
Boerenkaas
Pleasing to crowds and international judges alike, our Dutch ‘Farmer’s Cheese,’ is sweet and nutty, with a tangy finish. Best used for epic cheese pulls, delicious omelettes, and proper salads.
One reviewer states, “Dear Natural Pastures: I have never written a cheese fan letter before but… I tried a piece and nearly swooned… you are a cheese artist.”
We’re blushing.
Winner of national and international awards, if you haven’t tried Boerenkaas – you must. It may become your dinner party dazzler.
Awards:
🏆 2013 British Empire Cheese Competition, Second Place, Class 2 Firm Cheese
🏆 2004 Canadian Cheese Grand Prix, Category Finalist, Firm Cheese
🏆 2004 The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, Third Place
🏆 2002 Canadian Cheese Grand Prix, Category Winner, Semi-Soft Cheese
Smoked Boerenkaas
Many smoked cheeses are not actually smoked. Instead, smoke particulates are added to the cheese to give it a smoke-like flavour. That’s a process we weren’t interested in replicating. To make it right, we started by collaborating with neighbours Smoken Bones Cookshack, collected some local hardwood and mastered the process. According to the judges at the 2011 Canadian Cheese Grand Prix, our natural approach was exactly right. Since then we’ve moved our cheese smoking in-house and are loving the results.
Awards:
🏆 2014 Canadian Cheese Awards, Category Finalist, Smoked Cheese
🏆 2014 Canadian Cheese Grand Prix, Category Winner, Best B.C. Cheese
🏆 2011 Canadian Cheese Grand Prix, Category Winner, Flavoured Cheese (with Added Non‐Particulate Flavouring)
Aged Farmhouse
Our Boerenkaas, when aged, transforms into our sublime Aged Farmhouse. A taste of Comox Valley, its rich, bold flavour leaves a lingering sweetness on the tongue.
Awards:
🏆 2009 Pacific National Exhibition Cheese Competition, Overall Champion Cheese & Winner of Hard Cheese Category
Garlic & Chives Verdelait
What makes a World Championship Silver Medalist verdelait? We start with a combination of Cheddar, Dutch Gouda and Swiss Raclette. The flavour is further enhanced by garlic and shaved herbs. Our verdelait is semi-firm, creamy, and fantastic baked in eggy hors d’oeuvres like a quiche or frittatta. A champion melter, our verdelait transforms good dishes to sublime.
Awards:
🏆 2008 World Championship Silver Medal
With all of this attention, we prefer to stick to what we know: producing some of the best artisan cheese on the planet. Luckily, you can find our cheeses at a grocery store near you.
Pacific Wildfire Verdelait: Made from BC.
Blending old world traditional cheese making with the heat and fire of inspiration – we pose a challenge to our most adventurous cheese eaters: Can you handle the heat?
Cheesemaking has existed for centuries. It’s a craft built on technique and tradition. We honour these principles to bring you the best cheese on earth. We take inspiration from the land and sea that surrounds us, and partner with local farmers who care for the animals producing our milk. Without tradition, we are nothing.
But sometimes you must part with tradition – to make way for something new, something a little more daring.
Today we introduce our boldest new creation: Pacific Wildfire Verdelait.
Smoke and Spice
You may have tried smoked cheeses in the past, and this is where we start. You’ll first notice the rich and complex smoke flavour, contrasted by the creaminess of our cheese blend. Then the heat kicks in.
To imbue this new creation with heat, we chose locally grown hot peppers from family run Seal Bay Farm. This farm is run by the Lightfoot family, known for their hot sauces and pepper jellies. Their hot habanero is the one we chose for Pacific Wildfire – a fiery, fruity, and delicious pepper that packs a spicy punch.
To balance the heat from the peppers, we blend with our unique verdelait cheese, which has a hint of cheddar, raclette, and gouda. We finish with a touch of black pepper to accentuate the bold smokiness and turn up the flavour dial on the peppers. Believe us – you won’t find anything on the market quite like this.
Pacific Wildfire. It’s vibrant and sassy, evocative with a lingering finish. It’s a bold cheese made for the very brave.
Help Support Our Firemen
Pick up Pacific Wildfire at your local market and help support your local firefighters. With every purchase, a percentage of sales will go to the Comox Fire Rescue Benevolent Fund. A fund to assist long-term sick or injured firefighters with costs not typically covered by insurance.
The Edible Valley Podcast, Episode 78 “Doug Smith of Natural Pastures Cheese” Comox Valley, B.C.
Doug Smith of Natural Pastures was gracious enough to join us tonight to discuss cheese! As one of the Comox Valley’s cornerstone food producers that help put our humble, beautiful Valley on the map, Doug is one of those key talents that took a small business idea, and turned it into a national brand! He walks us through the process of getting started, growing to fit your market, and establishing yourself amongst your peers. We had a great time with Doug – who is just a wealth of information of Valley history, business planning and above all: Cheese!… listen to The Edible Valley Podcast