Face Rock Creamery Free Samples And In-Store Tasting Experience At Oregons Coastal Cheese Destination

Face Rock Creamery, located in the coastal town of Bandon, Oregon, offers visitors the opportunity to sample their premium cheeses through an in-store tasting experience. Founded in 2013, this creamery has revitalized Bandon's long-standing dairy tradition by crafting high-quality cheeses using time-honored techniques and local ingredients. The creamery provides daily sampling opportunities, allowing guests to taste a variety of cheeses while observing the cheesemaking process through large viewing windows. This article explores the details of Face Rock Creamery's free sample program, the in-store experience, and other visitor amenities that make this destination popular among cheese enthusiasts and tourists alike.

The In-Store Sampling Experience

Face Rock Creamery offers daily free samples to visitors at their physical location in Bandon, Oregon. The sampling experience is integrated into the creamery's design, with large windows that allow guests to witness the cheesemaking process firsthand. As visitors watch the artisans craft their cheeses, they can simultaneously sample a variety of products, creating an educational and sensory experience that connects consumers directly with the production methods behind their food.

The sampling station is staffed by knowledgeable personnel who can provide information about each cheese variety, its characteristics, and the cheesemaking process. This hands-on approach to sampling differentiates Face Rock Creamery from retailers where samples may be pre-packaged or limited in variety. At the creamery, visitors can experience the cheeses at peak freshness, often straight from the production line.

The creamery's commitment to transparency extends to its sampling program, allowing guests to see exactly how the cheeses they're tasting are made. This openness builds consumer trust and appreciation for the craft of cheesemaking. The daily sampling schedule ensures that both regular locals and tourists visiting Bandon have the opportunity to experience these free samples regardless of when they visit.

The Annual Anniversary Celebration

Each May, Face Rock Creamery celebrates its anniversary with a community event that prominently features free samples as part of the festivities. The first anniversary in May 2014 included live music, walk-in specials, food and beverages for purchase, and, of course, cheese samples. This event has become an annual tradition that the community looks forward to, strengthening the connection between the creamery and local residents.

The anniversary celebration represents the creamery's commitment to community engagement and appreciation for customer support. By offering free samples during these special events, Face Rock Creamery reinforces its position as a community-oriented business that values personal interaction with customers. The events typically draw both regular customers and those new to the creamery, helping to expand their customer base while maintaining loyalty among existing patrons.

During these anniversary events, the creamery often offers an extended selection of samples beyond what might be available during regular business days. This provides visitors with the opportunity to taste limited-edition cheeses or seasonal offerings that may not be part of the regular sampling rotation. The combination of free samples, entertainment, and special offers creates a festive atmosphere that encourages visitors to linger longer and explore the full range of products available.

Product Sampling Details

The sampling experience at Face Rock Creamery encompasses a diverse selection of their cheese products. According to the information provided, the creamery produces a wide variety of cheeses, including 10 flavors of cheddar cheese (such as "In Your Face" Cheddar and "Vampire Slayer" Garlic Cheddar, as well as plain, smoky, and other varieties), cheese curds, fromage blanc, and Monterey Jack. These products form the core of their sampling offerings, allowing visitors to experience the range of flavors and textures that define their product line.

The sampling experience typically includes both aged and fresh cheeses, providing a comprehensive introduction to the creamery's capabilities. Fresh products like cheese curds offer a mild, milky flavor with a springy texture, while aged cheddars provide more complex, developed flavors. Fromage blanc, a fresh cheese similar to cream cheese but lighter, showcases the creamery's ability to work with different cheese styles beyond the cheddars for which they are known.

The creamery's commitment to using local ingredients from the Coquille and Willamette Valleys is reflected in their product offerings, many of which incorporate regional specialties like cranberries. This local connection is often highlighted during sampling sessions, as staff explain how the terroir of the Pacific Northwest influences the flavor profiles of their cheeses. Visitors can taste the difference between standard cheese varieties and those that incorporate locally foraged ingredients or follow traditional European methods adapted to Oregon's milk sources.

Pairing Recommendations

Complementing the sampling experience, Face Rock Creamery features a beer and wine bar where staff can suggest cheese pairings. This element enhances the sampling experience by providing guidance on how to best enjoy each cheese variety. The knowledgeable staff can recommend specific beverages that complement or contrast with the cheeses being sampled, creating a more complete tasting experience.

The pairing recommendations are based on both traditional cheese pairing principles and the specific flavor profiles of Face Rock Creamery's products. For example, the creamery's cranberry-infused cheeses might be paired with local cranberry wines or certain craft beers that complement the fruit notes. Meanwhile, their aged cheddars could be recommended with bolder red wines or hoppy IPAs that can stand up to the cheese's robust flavor.

This pairing service adds value to the free sampling experience by educating visitors about flavor combinations they might not have considered on their own. It also demonstrates the creamery's expertise not just in cheesemaking but also in the broader culinary culture of pairing cheeses with beverages. For visitors unfamiliar with cheese pairing, this educational component makes the sampling experience both enjoyable and informative.

Visitor Experience: Beyond Sampling

The sampling experience at Face Rock Creamery is just one aspect of what makes the location appealing to visitors. Beyond the free samples and cheese pairings, the creamery offers several additional amenities that enhance the overall experience. The gift shop features an extensive selection of cheese products, butter, cranberry wine, Umpqua ice cream, glassware, apparel, and kitchen accessories, as well as other local products. This allows visitors to purchase not only the cheeses they sampled but also related items that extend the cheese experience beyond their visit.

For those who wish to linger, the creamery provides a viewing area where visitors can climb stairs to enjoy panoramic views of the Coquille River, the lighthouse, and the jetty. This scenic backdrop adds to the leisurely atmosphere of a visit to the creamery, making it a destination that appeals not just to cheese enthusiasts but also to tourists seeking to experience the natural beauty of the Oregon coast.

The creamery's design, with its large windows looking into the production area, creates a transparent environment where visitors can observe the cheesemaking process. This educational aspect appeals to those interested in food production and traditional craft methods. The combination of free samples, educational opportunities, scenic views, and shopping creates a multi-faceted experience that keeps visitors engaged for extended periods.

Product Range and Availability

Face Rock Creamery's product range includes not only the cheeses available for sampling but also various specialty items and gift options. While the sampling focuses primarily on their core cheese varieties, the creamery offers an extensive selection for purchase. This includes their 10 flavors of cheddar, cheese curds, fromage blanc, and Monterey Jack, as well as various gift boxes and sets that showcase their products in curated combinations.

The creamery's products are available at nearly 300 outlets in five states, including retail locations such as Fred Meyer, New Seasons, Market of Choice, and Harry and David, as well as dozens of independent stores, markets, and restaurants. They can also be found at the Eugene Saturday Market and soon at the Coos Bay Farmer's Market. This wide distribution network means that visitors who sample cheeses at the creamery in Bandon can often find their favorites at retail locations closer to home.

For those who cannot visit the creamery in person, the website offers online shopping options, including gift cards that can be purchased and sent to others. This extends the reach of the creamery beyond its physical location and allows customers who have experienced the in-store sampling to order additional products online.

Visitor Information and Practical Details

Face Rock Creamery is located in Bandon, Oregon, and is open daily, though specific hours are not provided in the source material. The creamery's position in the coastal town makes it a convenient stop for both tourists exploring the Oregon coast and local residents. The anniversary celebration in May has become a notable event on the local calendar, drawing visitors from throughout the region.

For those planning a visit specifically to take advantage of the free samples, it's worth noting that the creamery appears to prioritize this as part of their customer experience. The combination of daily sampling, the anniversary event, and the educational aspect of watching the cheesemaking process makes the creamery a destination for cheese enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

The creamery's location also offers additional attractions, including the scenic views of the coast and the opportunity to explore Bandon's other attractions. For tourists making a day trip or longer visit to the Oregon coast, Face Rock Creamery provides a unique experience that combines food sampling with local culture and natural beauty.

Conclusion

Face Rock Creamery offers a distinctive free sample experience that goes beyond simple taste testing. Through daily sampling opportunities, an annual anniversary celebration, and educational viewing of the cheesemaking process, the creamery creates an immersive experience that connects consumers directly with their food. The knowledgeable staff, scenic location, and complementary beer and wine bar enhance the sampling experience, making it both enjoyable and informative.

The creamery's commitment to using local ingredients and traditional methods is reflected in their diverse product range, which includes multiple cheddar varieties, cheese curds, fromage blanc, and Monterey Jack. Their products are available not only at the creamery but also at numerous retail locations throughout five states, making their cheeses accessible to a wide audience.

For visitors to the Oregon coast, Face Rock Creamery represents more than just a place to get free cheese samples—it's an opportunity to learn about cheesemaking traditions, support local agriculture, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Bandon area. The combination of free samples, educational opportunities, and scenic views makes this creamery a destination worth seeking out for cheese enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Sources

1. Bandon Guide - Face Rock Creamery
2. Face Rock Creamery Online Store
3. Oregon Cheese Guild - Face Rock Creamery