The Most Expensive Cheese in America: Why It's Worth Every Penny

For true cheese lovers, cheese isn't just a snack—it's a way of life. As someone who considers a well-crafted wedge or creamy spread essential to living well, I get it: sometimes, it's worth splurging. In fact, America's priciest cheese, ringing in at an eye-popping $80 per pound, doesn't even seem outrageous when you consider the indulgent experience it offers. This cheese, called Up in Smoke, hails from the misty Pacific Northwest, specifically from Rivers Edge Chèvre in the small town of Logsden, Oregon.

River's Edge Up In Smoke Photo From: Murray's Cheese

Forget Wisconsin's dairy dominance—this decadent delight is a farmstead chèvre, meaning it's made entirely from the goats raised right on Rivers Edge's family-run farm. The result? A sustainable, handcrafted masterpiece that feels both exclusive and perfectly aligned with today's emphasis on quality and sourcing.

Why the High Price Tag Makes Sense

Now, before you start planning a trip to Oregon, here’s the good news: you don’t need to travel to get your hands on this smoky sensation. Up in Smoke is available online through specialty shops like Murray's Cheese, and you don't need to drop $80 upfront, either. You can indulge in a four-ounce wheel for around $20, which gives you just enough to treat yourself without breaking the bank.

What makes Up in Smoke so unique? It starts with the fresh, pasteurized goat’s milk that’s hand-formed into chèvre and then smoked over alder and hickory wood. But the pièce de résistance is the wrapping—each wheel is enveloped in smoked maple leaves that have been spritzed with bourbon for a flavor that’s as intriguing as it sounds. Think of it as the American answer to France's Banon chèvre, but instead of chestnut leaves, you're getting the Pacific Northwest's spin with maple.

River's Edge Up In Smoke Photo From: Murray's Cheese

How to Elevate Your Meals with Up in Smoke

This isn't the kind of cheese you just toss onto crackers (though it would be delicious that way, too). The subtle woodsy flavors and creamy texture are perfect for spreading on warm flatbreads, paired with fresh vegetables like avocado or tomatoes for a crunchy-soft contrast. It's also a dreamy addition to your scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, or even tucked into flaky pastries.

And if you’re feeling fancy, try it as a base for savory sauces or melted onto homemade flatbread pizzas—the smoky notes will elevate any dish to gourmet status. With this chèvre, your meals can taste like they’ve come straight from a wood-fired oven, without you ever leaving home.

In a world where so many cheeses blend together, Up in Smoke rises above with its craftsmanship, local roots, and flavor complexity. It’s an indulgence, yes—but one that’s totally worth it when you’re looking to treat yourself to something extraordinary.

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It's important to note that the world of American cheesemaking is vast, with hundreds of artisans crafting exceptional products across the country. With so many cheesemakers constantly experimenting and evolving their offerings, keeping up with fluctuating prices and new creations can be a challenge. On top of that, cheeses are often packaged in creative ways, sometimes with varying wheel sizes and undisclosed weights, making it tricky to pinpoint the exact cost per pound. That said, Up in Smoke has certainly earned its place among the priciest and most unique cheeses available.