The History of Havarti Cheese

Havarti cheese originated in Denmark in the mid 1800’s. There, a farmer named Hanne Nielsen decided to travel around Europe to learn more about cheesemaking, then brought what she learned back to her farm at Havarthigaard. She named the cheese she created after the farm, giving rise to the name “Havarti.” The traditional style of cheesemaking in Denmark endured for many years, and, in fact, cooperative, traditional cheesemaking is still the norm in the region today. However, as time went on and Havarti cheese became more popular, makers in other parts of the world began using mass-production techniques to make a more ubiquitous, mild-flavored variety known as Cream Havarti, which can be found in many supermarkets around the world today. Still, authentic, small-batch Havarti made the traditional way is widely cultivated in Denmark and is also available from various specialty cheesemakers and cheese mongers in other parts of the world; some American cheesemakers, particularly those in Wisconsin, also produce Havarti.