Over the Moon cheese factory was a delicious stop that was only slightly out of our way between Lake Taupo and Rotorua. It would have been an even more convenient stop between Hobbiton/Matamata and Rotorua. Street parking was available next to the building.
It wasn't busy when we arrived in the afternoon on a Sunday, and they greeted us right away to do the free tasting. It was conducted in a smaller, cooler room, with baskets of their cheeses lining the wall. Our guide/server was very friendly.
We tried a handful of their more popular cheeses, and left with some delicious wedges to enjoy on the road. I liked their classic Just Ewe semihard cheese, which had a simple and light sheep's milk flavor, almost an even lighter flavor than basques that I've tried in the past. The peppercorn brie was unique, offering a kick of peppercorn flavor that paired very well with the mild nuttiness of the brie.
They provided an ice pack to help keep the cheese cool while I was on the road, a nice touch.
They also make coffee beverages here. Their long black was good, perfect for the drive ahead. Recommend for a stop! read more