Stepladder Ranch & Creamery

The Best California Farms for Baby Goats and Cheese

"Jack and Michelle Rudolph transformed a family property (originally founded in 1870 and bought by Jack’s grandparents in the 1980s) into a creamery in 2015, pairing a Central Coast avocado ranch vibe with goat dairying. The property spans 750 hilly acres (about 40 farmable) and features a century-old red barn housing the creamery, which is supplied by roughly 60 milkers and 180 goats, with a focus on LaMancha animals. Michelle describes the setting and herd affectionately: “Our climate is so mild, we’re spoiled … ” and “They’re my little princesses.” Visitors can play with babies in the pen, watch cheesemaking in the barn, and try tastings that might feature a Big Sur soft-ripened with an ashy rind, Cabrillo in manchego style, and Rocky Butte goat gouda—underscoring the distinctly Californian pairing of avocado and goat cheese." - Becky Duffett