I’m Irene Clemente, founder and passionate cheese educator  of Mrs. Platters. My journey into the world of cheese began as a creative hobby, crafting cheese and charcuterie boards. As my love for artisan cheese grew, so did my desire to offer more than just products. After the pandemic, I recognized a saturated market and decided to pivot—focused on the science, artistry, and tradition of cheesemaking.

To deepen my expertise, I participated in a Masterclass and Immersion Program with Christophe Gonzalez in Bayonne, France. This transformative experience ignited my passion for understanding the full depth of cheese culture and production. I furthered my studies at the Academy of Cheese in London and am honored to be a scholar at Cheese State University in Wisconsin, US. I also traveled to Paris to study cheese-making and pairing at Parole de Fromagers, enriching my appreciation for terroir and craftsmanship.

As a cheese educator, my mission is to share the knowledge and joy I’ve gained with others. Through cheese classes, from basic appreciation to hands-on cheese and butter-making workshops, I help students explore the complexities of cheesemaking. I’m dedicated to inspiring others to connect with the craft that goes into every wheel of cheese.

What has been most humbling in my journey is speaking directly with generations of cheesemakers, farmers, and affineurs. Their dedication to quality and their craftsmanship has fueled my respect and advocacy for their work. I’ve had the privilege of stewarding at the British and Irish Cheese Awards, where I worked alongside industry leaders, gaining insight into the importance of sustainability and tradition.

At Mrs. Platters, I offer a range of curated experiences that bring you closer to the world of artisan cheese. From Bespoke Cheese Tastings tailored to your preferences to Immersive Travel Experiences and the Curated Cheese Journeys subscription, my goal is to connect you with exceptional cheeses and the artisans behind them.

Cheese is more than just food—it’s a reflection of culture, passion, and craftsmanship. I invite you to explore a world where each bite tells a story, and every experience deepens your connection to the craft.