Inside the Petaluma Cheese Tour That Lets You Make Your Own
In the heart of Sonoma County, Achadinha Cheese Company in Petaluma is doing something special. Known to locals as Pacheco Family Dairy, this family-run farm invites visitors behind the scenes to learn how cheese is made. From fresh milk to finished product you get to experience all of it.
Watch Video Below
One of the Last Family Dairies in the Area
Owner Donna started the tour by sharing the history of the farm. Achadinha is one of the last family-operated dairies still in business around here. Their cows, lovingly referred to as “the girls,” are central to everything they do. The farm’s regenerative practices even include partnerships with local breweries to keep the land healthy and sustainable.
Cheese Tastings and Unexpected Surprises
The tour began with a tasting that included a variety of house-made cheeses. But the standout for many was the kefir. Smooth, sweet, and incredibly balanced, it was a surprise hit that had everyone asking for seconds.
The butter was just as memorable. Creamy, fresh, and full of flavor. It is why simple ingredients matter when they are made right.
Step Inside the Cheese Making Room
After suiting up in clean gear, we entered the cheese making facility. Here, we were given a quick lesson in curds and cultures before scooping our own fresh curds from the vat. We tasted them right then and there. They were soft, mild, and full of clean milk flavor. They tasted like fresh mozzarella before any salt is added.
Donna guided us through the rest of the process. We flipped the cheese, cut it into squares, and salted it to our liking. Each of us took home our own personal cheese wheel to finish at home.
Cheese Library and a Look at the Process
One of the highlights was the cheese library. Dozens of wheels lined wooden racks, some young, some aged, and all part of the aging process. This is where the magic happens.
You could see the pride in every detail. From the temperature controls to the way each batch is tracked, it’s clear that Achadinha takes cheese seriously.
Meeting the Cows That Make It All Possible
At the end of the tour, we met the cows behind the cheese. Clean, well-fed, and calm, these animals are treated like part of the family. Donna explained that their health and happiness are essential to the quality of the dairy products.
Why It Matters
The cheese making experience at Achadinha Cheese Company is more than just educational, it is personal. It is about tradition, quality, and taking pride in your product. For anyone interested in where their food comes from, this Petaluma cheese tour offers a rare opportunity to be part of the process.
If you are planning a trip to Sonoma County, put this on your list. You will leave with fresh cheese in your bag and a whole new appreciation for the craft behind it.