Pastoral Pleasures

In a state as proudly rural as Vermont, farmers are a close-knit bunch, and the communities they call home are wellsprings of exceptional dairy, breads, fruits, vegetables, and meats. In these small agricultural towns—places that have given rise to nationally known brands like ** Ben and Jerry's** and ** Cabot Creamery--community spirit is the backbone of Vermont's robust food culture. Farm-to-table cooperatives like the ** Vermont Fresh Network source local ingredients for restaurants throughout the state, and schools like the ** Vermont Institute for Artisan Cheese** are training the next generation of cheese makers and other food producers.