Split Creek Farm cheese display.

DATE: 11/10/05

CONTACT: Danny Howard, (864) 232-4431

WRITER: Diane Palmer, (864) 656-4741

Split Creek goat cheese judged best in the U.S.

CLEMSON – The American Dairy Goat Association has named some South Carolina producers the big cheeses when it comes to feta.

Split Creek Farm in Anderson County, owned by Pat Bell and Evin Evans, was honored recently with a “Best in Show” award for their feta cheese, “Split Creek Farm’s Feta in Olive Oil.”

They competed against more than 400 other entries in the national cheese competition at the American Dairy Goat Association’s annual meeting in Kansas City, Mo. The competition was judged by two people who know a thing or two about cheese -- world renowned judges Max McCalman and Scott Rankin.

McCalman is author of "The Cheese Plate" and "Cheese: a Connoisseur's Guide to the World's Best." Rankin is assistant professor of food science at the University of Wisconsin, and his judging experience includes the World Championship Cheese Competition.

Evans is a Clemson graduate and 4-H volunteer.

“When we were establishing the goat educational program in the Upstate for adults and youth, Evin was a valuable resource and asset in its success,” said Danny Howard, Clemson Extension agent in Greenville County.

The Grade A goat dairy and cheese plant at their farm is home to 400 goats and has won numerous gold medals in national competitions for their cheese, milk and fudge.

“We get very positive feedback from our customers and feta is our signature cheese and best seller,” said Evans. “This award is a wonderful affirmation.”

In addition, Bell won Best In Show for her artwork entered in the art competition. Her entry in the annual fund raising auction brought in $2,000 to benefit charity.

For more information, contact the farm at (864) 287-3921 or, info@splitcreek.com. Visit their website at: http://splitcreek.com/.

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