Mountain Valley Farmstead

Mountain Valley Farmstead, nestled along the scenic Salmon River in Carmen, Idaho, is a family-run dairy specializing in artisan sheep cheese. The operation began in 2016, crafting traditional alpine-style cheeses that showcase the natural richness of sheep’s milk. Their commitment to sustainable and local practices has established them as a treasured local business, with the majority of their cheese sales occurring within a 20-mile radius, though their products are also available at select retailers in Ada and Blaine counties

Sheep cheese offers a range of benefits, from its robust flavor to its digestibility and nutritional value. With qualities that make it more accessible for those with dairy sensitivities, Mountain Valley Farmstead’s cheeses are a flavorful, premium addition to any charcuterie board or special gathering. Each cheese embodies their dedication to quality and the environment, giving customers a taste of Idaho’s pastoral beauty and sustainable craftsmanship.

Randal, one of the founders, brings a wealth of expertise to the operation. With a degree in Agricultural Economics from Utah State University and extensive experience in the dairy industry, including roles as an Idaho State Dairy Inspector, dairy cooperative manager, and USDA Dairy Marketing Specialist, he ensures the highest standards in each batch. After two decades in Washington, D.C., Randal and his family returned to Idaho in 2014 to fulfill their dream of running a local, sustainable dairy, where they have since been actively engaged in the thriving sheep cheese business.

They sell five varieties of artisan sheep cheeses:

• Carmen Carrano – a Manchego-style cheese aged between 6 months and one year. A very rich and buttery flavored cheese.

• Aged Carmen Carrano – same as above but aged over one year. Same as above but with a more distinctive and pronounced flavor.

• Mountain Gem – a gouda-style cheese aged a mild but nutty flavored cheese that is aged a minimum of 3 months
• Cold Smoked Mountain Gem – same as above but exposed to natural apple wood smoke. The smoke chamber temperature never rises above 55 degrees F.

• Pecorino Idaho – a pecorino-Romano-style cheese that is aged a minimum of 9 months. This cheese has a strong piquant flavor that is typically grated to compliment other foods like pasta, salads, or soups.