Meet Josh Windsor: The Cheese Whisperer at Murray's

Ever met someone who turned their love for cheese into a career? Well, let me introduce you to Josh Windsor, a Cheese Monger and Affineur at the legendary Murray's in NYC. Josh's journey into the world of cheese is nothing short of inspiring, filled with delightful moments, unique achievements, and lofty aspirations.

From Intern to Cheese Connoisseur

Josh's cheese adventure began in 2017 when he started as an affinage intern. Before that, he dabbled in various industries, but none of them brought him the joy that cheese did. When life presented him with a chance to pursue his passion, cheese was the obvious choice at the top of his list. And boy, are we glad he made that decision!

Memorable Cheese Moments

One of Josh's favorite memories in his cheese journey happened in 2022. After filming an episode of the children's show Waffles + Mochi in the cheese caves, he got to watch it with a friend's five-year-old son. During the episode, Josh revealed a surprising cheese called Epoisses that smells like an armpit—naturally, the kid was captivated. They spent the day making Epoisses recipes and even went out to buy some the next day. Introducing children to the wonders of stinky cheese was something Josh never got to do in his previous careers, and it was an experience he cherished.

The Cheese That Represents Josh

When asked which cheese best represents him, Josh playfully chose Limburger. He described himself as opinionated (or stubborn) and hard to find—much like Limburger, which is often tucked away in the caves. It’s a fitting choice for someone who dedicates so much time to the subtleties of cheese aging and storage.

Aspirations in the Cheese World

Josh's ambitions are as grand as his love for cheese. He dreams of more American originals being produced and appreciated by a broader audience. He believes in the endless possibilities that arise when we stop trying to replicate the past and start creating new models of cheese-making.

Current Projects

Josh is currently working on reviving two cheeses originally developed by Crown Finish Caves in Brooklyn. Carpenter's Wheel with Firefly Farms made a comeback in October, and Treeline with Roelli Cheese Haus is set to return in February. These projects are a testament to his dedication to pushing the boundaries in the cheese industry.

Where to Find Josh

If you’re ever in NYC, you can find Josh washing cheese in the Murray's Cheese Caves. Follow his cheesy adventures on Instagram @theaffineur and witness firsthand the magic he brings to the world of cheese.

So there you have it—Josh Windsor, the cheese whisperer who's turning heads (and noses) with his passion for all things cheese. Next time you're enjoying a delicious piece of aged cheddar or a funky blue, think of Josh and his journey. Cheers to the cheese life!