One hundred. That’s a big number. An even bigger number when you consider that’s the amount of time the Rumiano Family has been working in the dairy industry together.
The Rumiano Family has a rich and spirited history. The tale is best told by a family member themselves, with anecdotes and racy details woven throughout. Their story is the heart and soul of the American Dream – beginning in Italy and flourishing in the United States. The three Rumiano brothers had their share of obstacles, but made a name for themselves, and their family, that is still seen in grocery stores across the United States today.
While the original plant built in the early 1900s is still in use today, Rumiano Cheese looks very different than it did 100 years ago. It is currently operated by the third and fourth generation family, and has been under the leadership of the third generation brothers for nearly 40 years, longer than any previous family owners. The brothers have taken a small, relatively unknown cheese company in the 1980s, to unprecedented heights in 2019. Rumiano Cheese can now be found nationwide, and is looked upon as a leader in the organic space. Their commitment to cheesemaking, and the dairy industry, has secured them a place in the hearts of many.
This was never more clear than at the centennial celebration this past week. Set at a picturesque winery in Napa Valley, friends and industry leaders gathered from near and far to celebrate. Featured in the middle of the room was a nine foot cheeseboard decorated with California-made cheeses, Rumiano Dry Jack and Peppato playing the leading roles. These cheeses were the original creations of the Rumiano Family and remain the crown jewels. True California Originals, they were crafted out of need. A halt on availability of Italian cheese during the war drove the conception of these hand-rolled wheels. With adequate age, Dry Jack (a simple cheese with a nutty, buttery flavor), and Peppato (Dry Jack with whole peppercorns for a gusto of flavor), can be grated, shredded, or elegantly served on a cheeseboard. These two cheeses are still hand-rolled and aged on the original racks, in the war-era hand dug cave.
Dry Jack and Peppato were the highlights of the cheeseboard, but were quickly overshadowed as the third generation brothers rose to speak. Their partnership, commitment, and love for one another and their families, shown through with every word. There were a number of misty eyes and bright smiles as everyone listened. It is truly an amazing experience to witness such hard work, controversy, and success in the flesh.
A short 20 hours later, the party continued 250 miles north, at the Humboldt County Fair. Arguably a key player in the Rumiano 100 year success, is the milkshed and producers who provide the milk for Rumiano Cheese.
Early on in their cheesemaking careers, the Family recognized the goldmine that lay on California’s Northern Coast. The Rumiano Family sources all of their milk from Humboldt and Del Norte counties where the fog layer and redwood trees reside. This little pocket of the United States serves as one of the most pristine areas in the world, with a balmy temperature and bountiful rainfall. Cattle are seen grazing fresh, green pastures year-round. This lush diet translates to a golden milk color, and unrivaled flavor. This milkshed cannot be replicated anywhere else, and serves as the basis for quality that Rumiano is known for.
The Producer Celebration reasonably coincided with the Dairy Heifer Replacement Sale Luncheon. It was a celebration and appreciation event. It was a pleasure sharing Rumiano’s upcoming ventures, and seeing the excitement on producers’ faces. One of the most honorable attributes of the Rumiano Family is their commitment to their producers. The event was the start of a beautiful day on the coast filled with fun, horse racing, and camaraderie.
As I start this next week, I find myself both exhausted and fulfilled. I am in a career that I could never have imagined, working fora family business that has given me countless opportunities to grow personally and professionally. I am constantly energized, excited, and amazed. While I am challenged daily, I am also invariably rewarded. So, thank you to the Rumiano Family for creating a legacy, supporting your team, and creating a culture of happiness. I look forward to sharing in the next 100 years of milestones.
Beer in a Martini World 