Experience Fromage Adventures with Karyn Stowe at the 2026 Great Canadian Cheese Festival.

Karyn Stowe, Professional Cheesemonger and Academy of Cheese Associate, at The Great Canadian Cheese Festival 2026.
Karyn Stowe | Professional Cheesemonger & Educator

MASTERCLASS PRESENTER

Karyn Stowe

Professional Cheesemonger & Academy of Cheese Associate

A Professional Cheesemonger and the creative force behind Fromage Adventures, Karyn Stowe is on a global mission to highlight the world’s most exceptional artisan cheeses. With an Academy of Cheese accreditation and over 25 years of teaching experience, Karyn specializes in demystifying the art of the affineur. She brings a playful, adventurous spirit to cheese education, proving that the best pairings often come from the most unexpected places.

Strange Bedfellows: Cheesing Outside the Box

Challenge your palate. Break the rules. Discover the “WOW.”

Traditionally, cheese and wine have been the winning combination. But what happens when we think a little more creatively? Join Karyn Stowe for a provocative masterclass that dares to “cheese” outside of the box.

In this lively and approachable session, Karyn pulls back the curtain on flavor chemistry, combining world-class Canadian artisan cheeses with unexpected, non-alcoholic flavors. This isn’t just a tasting—it’s a masterclass in creative alchemy designed to create unforgettable sensory moments that prove great cheese doesn’t need wine to shine.

What to Expect

  • The Science of Flavor: Learn how to balance salt, fat, and acidity without a wine glass in sight.
  • Non-Alcoholic Innovation: Discover how small-batch juices, vinegars, and infusions can elevate cheese in ways wine cannot.
  • The “WOW” Factor: Taste-test Karyn’s hand-picked “wild card” pairings that defy tradition.
  • Expert Mentorship: Guided insights from a Level 1 Academy of Cheese Associate and seasoned educator.

The Craft & Culture of Fromage Adventures

Karyn Stowe holds her Professional Cheesemonger accreditation from George Brown College and is a recognized Associate (Level 1) of the Academy of Cheese. Through her popular digital platform, “Fromage Adventures,” Karyn documents her travels to independent fromageries and artisan producers around the world, bringing a global context to the local Canadian cheese scene.

Beyond her credentials in the cheese world, Karyn brings more than 25 years of professional teaching experience to the festival. This background allows her to translate complex flavor profiles into accessible, engaging, and memorable lessons for both curious beginners and seasoned connoisseurs alike. Whether she is exploring a remote creamery in Europe or a boutique cheesemaker in Ontario, Karyn’s focus remains the same: educating the palate and celebrating the incredible craftsmanship behind every wedge.

Experience the Full Festival

Discover the artisan vendors, more masterclasses.

The Artisan Marketplace

Explore the award-winning cheesemakers, craft breweries, and small-batch producers.

Meet the Artisans

All Tutored Tastings

From whisky pairings to non-alcoholic alchemy—see the full weekend schedule

Tickets & Info

Get the details on admission levels, location, and how to make the most of your weekend.

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