We’re excited to share a recent feature from the Vancouver Guardian that gives a behind-the-scenes look at what we do at Natural Pastures Cheese Company — and more importantly, how we do it as a team.
While Anyssa was the one interviewed, the story really belongs to the people who make Natural Pastures what it is every single day: the early-morning cheesemakers, the detail-obsessed packaging crew, and the admin team that keeps everything moving from orders to logistics to customer support. The article captures something we talk about a lot internally — that our business works because three teams collaborate tightly, day in and day out, to get great cheese from our Courtenay production floor to tables across Canada.
It also touches on what we’re proud of: being an award-winning, family-owned Vancouver Island company that makes both cow-milk and water buffalo-milk cheeses, and operating our on-site Artisan Cheese Shop so you can visit the place where the cheese is actually made.
If you’ve ever wondered what “behind the scenes” really looks like in an artisan cheese company — from the 4:30 a.m. starts, to wrapping and smoking, to the coordination that gets products into delis and specialty shops — this one’s for you.
Courtenay, BC — Natural Pastures Cheese Company is proud to announce its Gold Medal win at the 2025 World Cheese Awards, held in Bern, Switzerland, for its celebrated Smoked Boerenkaas — finishing just one point shy of the coveted Super Gold distinction.
This achievement reflects the dedication, craftsmanship, and innovation of the entire Natural Pastures team. As an artisan cheesemaker, every wheel we create is truly hands-on — shaped, cared for, aged, and smoked by people who bring skill and intention to every step. From our cheesemaker Paul Sutters team, crafting Boerenkaas with precision, to our packaging Tom Unrau’s team who smoke and age each wheel to perfection, and Doug’s administrative team ensuring our cheeses reach customers across Canada — this award celebrates the work of many hands.
The story behind our Smoked Boerenkaas makes this win even more meaningful. What began as a modest, hands-on experiment many years ago — when now retired sales manager, Rick Adam’s first tested smoke flow using a Coleman camping cooler with a hole drilled into it — has since evolved into a fully specialized smoke room. Today, we use locally sourced Vancouver Island wood to achieve the cheese’s signature depth, character, and unmistakable west-coast flavour.
Smoked Boerenkaas shines on any cheese board with its rich, savoury depth and smooth, golden finish. Its natural smokiness pairs beautifully with crusty artisan breads, buttery crackers, and coastal-inspired charcuterie. For beverages, it complements bold red wines, amber ales, and smokey whiskey -whose warm, smoky whisky notes mirror and elevate the character of this cheese. Whether melted into gourmet dishes or enjoyed simply on its own, Smoked Boerenkaas brings a touch of West Coast craftsmanship to every bite.
“We are thrilled to be recognized on the world stage,” said Operation Manager Doug Smith at Natural Pastures. “This award reflects not only the skill and passion of our staff, but also the support of our customers, distributers, retailers, and community across Canada. We are honoured to represent Vancouver Island and Canadian artisan cheesemaking at an international level.”
Natural Pastures Cheese Company extends heartfelt thanks to its loyal customers, local partners, and the broader Canadian dairy community, whose support makes achievements like this possible.
About Natural Pastures Cheese Company Based in Courtenay, British Columbia, started in 2001 and still owned by Edgar, Phillip and Doug Smith, 3rd Generation Island farmers, Natural Pastures Cheese Company crafts award-winning, hands-on artisan cheeses. Using 100% Canadian milk sourced from Vancouver Island dairy farms, they have a focus on quality, tradition, and coastal terroir, the company continues to innovate while honouring European cheesemaking techniques.
When you browse the cheese case at Calgary Co-op, you might not see Leonard Conlin behind the counter — but you’ll certainly see his influence. As Calgary Co-op’s Deli Cheese Merchandising Coordinator and Alberta’s few active ACS Certified Cheese Professional®, Leonard is shaping how cheese is presented, understood, and enjoyed across all the Calgary Co-op locations.
Leonard has dedicated over 11 years to the art of cheesemongering. He began in a boutique cheese shop, spending eight years developing a deep understanding of artisan producers, before joining Calgary Co-op three years ago. His role today is both hands-on and educational. As an ACS Certified Cheese Professional®, he belongs to a select group in Western Canada recognized for mastery of cheese science, handling, and sensory evaluation. Beyond technical expertise, Leonard is a mentor and educator. He trains and inspires Calgary Co-op staff, building a stronger knowledge base so that customers can trust the advice they receive in-store. Our Master Cheese Maker Paul Sutter visited recently to present on one of their staff training days and was very impress on the training that has been put into place.
Leonard also oversees how cheese is sourced, displayed, and recommended, ensuring that Calgary Co-op members discover new flavours and pairings. With more than a decade of experience in pairing wine, beer, and spirits with cheese, his influence extends beyond the counter to the way customers experience food at home.
Leonard’s path to cheese is informed by a life full of eclectic experiences. A former national endurance cyclist, he also worked in fashion retail and pediatric orthotic care, careers that honed his eye for detail, kindness, and his commitment to improving people’s lives. This Renaissance perspective shapes how he approaches cheese. Just as he once curated clothing with style and precision, currently curates his own photography, he also curates food experiences with craftsmanship and individuality. His background makes him uniquely suited to bring depth and personality to Calgary Co-op’s cheese program.
Calgary Co-op has been a community-driven grocer since 1956, built on the principles of local ownership, sourcing, and reinvestment in Alberta. It is an organization that values quality, local partnerships, and member experience — exactly the values that guide Leonard’s work. With his leadership, Calgary Co-op customers encounter cheese cases that highlight artisan producers, showcase Canadian excellence, and encourage exploration. His influence ensures that cheeses like those from Natural Pastures are not just placed on shelves, but given context, pairing ideas, and the spotlight they deserve.
At Natural Pastures Cheese Company, we are proud to have Leonard championing our cheeses within Calgary Co-op. His training programs, merchandising vision, and educational leadership mean that when you pick up our cheese at Calgary Co-op, you are also benefiting from his expertise — whether through a staff recommendation, a pairing tip, or the thoughtful way the cheese is presented. Thanks to Leonard, Calgary Co-op shoppers don’t just buy cheese. They discover it.
Thank you to our Calgary Sales Co-Ordinator Danielle Smith for attending a members event and being a great photographer! If you are in Alberta and looking for our cheese just contact our us on our wholesale page: https://naturalpastures.com/wholesale/
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Natural Pastures Cheese Company Issues Voluntary Recall of Buffalo Medium Cheese — This product was not sold in grocery stores and did not reach any store shelves.
Courtenay, BC — July 21 — Natural Pastures Cheese Company issued a voluntary recall of a limited quantity of Buffalo Medium Cheese (Batch #854 179) following a positive test result regarding possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. A Single Wheel and 12 cut and wrap pieces.
Importantly, this batch was not sold in any grocery stores or our Artisan Cheese Shop. This product is not sold in any grocery stores. It was distributed in Ontario to a small number of direct-to-customer or specialty orders and the factory store. It was recalled before it went up for sale. If you by chance you have purchased or received Natural Pastures Cheese Company-branded Buffalo Medium Cheese with batch number 854 179, please do not consume it. Dispose of the product or return it to us for a refund.
To date, no illnesses have been reported in connection with this product.
At Natural Pastures Cheese Company, food safety is our highest priority. We are cooperating fully with CFIA and taking immediate steps to investigate and ensure no further impact.
For more information or to arrange a return, please contact our Customer Service at 250-334-4422 #102 or cheese@naturalpastures.com with Recall – in the email title.
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.
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, 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
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!
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.
