A passion for cheese.
For generations.
What started at the kitchen table in 1974 has grown into a proud family business where tradition and innovation go hand in hand.
50 years of passion for cheese
Kaasboerderij Berkhout is rooted in the heart of North Holland, between Alkmaar and Hoorn. Our story is about hard work, seizing opportunities and above all: a love for the craft. What began as a side income in the small barn of Theo and Afra Berkhout in De Weere, has grown into a modern cheese dairy.
The start in De Weere
The seed is planted on the Oosterboekelweg. Mother Afra starts making cheese as a necessary extra source of income for the family. Soon Theo and Afra were selling their craft at markets all over the country.
Growth and markets
The loose housing barn is expanded. More cows meant more milk, and therefore more cheese. The Berkhout name became well-known at markets throughout the Netherlands; the passion for the profession spread rapidly.
Moving to De Gouwe
A big step: through land consolidation, the farm moves to the Gouwe in Hoogwoud. Finally there was room to modernize and further shape the dream of a larger family business.
The new generation
Sons Nico and Ted officially take the helm. With Nico looking after the cows and Ted in the cheese dairy, the authentic quality was guaranteed, while setting sights on the future.
Professionalization
The first major steps in professionalization are taken. Production and refining processes are fine-tuned to meet the highest standards, without losing the artisanal soul.
Golden Jubilee
50 years of Kaasboerderij Berkhout! With fully automatic curd makers we make our certified North Holland Farmhouse Cheese 6 days a week. A milestone to be proud of.
Ready for the future
The new barn is in use, the milking robots are doing their job, and the biogas plant is running at full speed. We continue to innovate so that future generations can also enjoy the tastiest cheese.
Our cows, our pride
Quality cheese starts with good milk. And good milk comes from happy cows. Our ladies get the best care in our new barn, which is fully equipped. Our cows are a 3-way cross of Holstein, Brown Swiss and Jersey.
We like strong and healthy cows, and you can taste that in our cheese.
Want to be part of our story?
Whether you are a consumer or a business partner, you are always welcome in Hoogwoud.