Meet Buckhorn Dairy
Located in the rolling farmland of Mount Sterling, Illinois, Buckhorn Dairy is an example of family-run, small-scale dairy farming at its finest. Owned and operated by Wilmer and Titus Byler, this Mennonite father-son duo has been carrying on the tradition of producing high-quality dairy products since they started their dairy operation in 1993. Their commitment to ethical farming practices and exceptional dairy products has made them a standout partner of The Farms of Illinois.
Grass-Fed Dairy Cows
At Buckhorn Dairy raises a mix of Jersey and Holstein cattle, both known for their rich milk quality. The cows are pasture-raised and grass-fed, ensuring not only their well-being but also the quality taste and nutritional value of the milk they produce. This humane and sustainable approach to dairy farming aligns perfectly with The Farms of Illinois’ mission to support ethical, high-quality agricultural practices.
Rich, Non-Homogenized Milk
Buckhorn Dairy’s flagship products is their whole milk, which stands out compared to mass-produced, standardized milk. Unlike conventional milk, Buckhorn Dairy’s milk is non-homogenized, meaning that the cream naturally rises to the top, creating a thick and delicious layer. This traditional method preserves the integrity of the milk and enhances its flavor and texture. Their milk also boasts a butterfat content of 4% - 4.2%, well above the commercial standard of 3.2%, making it extra creamy and rich. Milk fat is an essential source of fat-soluble vitamins and nutrients that support growth and overall health.
Their Variety of Dairy Products
Beyond their high-quality whole milk, Buckhorn Dairy also produces a variety of dairy products that keep customers coming back for more. They offer chocolate milk made from the same non-homogenized milk, with an added touch of rich chocolate. They also create a specialty milk flavor once a month, such as strawberry or mocha, to keep things exciting for their customers.
Titus Byler, the son of the father-son team, has recently taken up cheesemaking, and the results have been nothing short of impressive. Buckhorn Dairy currently offers Colby, Cheddar, and shredded Mozzarella cheese as their staple products. They have also introduced Jalapeño Cheddar and a shredded blend of Colby and Cheddar, and they are planning to launch Baby Swiss cheese soon. You can buy all their milk and cheese selections through our online shop and get them delivered to your door!
Dedication to Quality and Integrity
The partnership between Buckhorn Dairy and The Farms of Illinois is built on shared values and a mutual appreciation for high-quality, ethically produced food. Buckhorn Dairy’s meticulous record-keeping, commitment to cleanliness, and adaptability to market demands make them a valued partner. Their willingness to innovate—whether through new cheese varieties or monthly specialty milk flavors—demonstrates their dedication to providing the best possible products for their customers.
Additionally, their farm’s practices ensure that their milk and cheese are not only delicious but also produced with the highest level of care for both the animals and the consumers. Their cows are treated with kindness, their facility is kept to impeccable standards, and their dairy products reflect this unwavering commitment to excellence.
How to Enjoy Buckhorn Dairy’s Products
Since Buckhorn Dairy is a Mennonite-owned farm, they do not have a website or online presence. But if you’re interested in learning more about them, you can reach out to The Farms of Illinois for information and purchase their milk and cheese on our website.
Buckhorn Dairy’s non-homogenized, pasture-raised dairy products offer a taste of tradition and quality that is increasingly rare in today’s commercial dairy industry. Whether you’re sipping on their rich whole milk, indulging in a unique monthly milk flavor, or enjoying their handcrafted cheese, you can be sure that Buckhorn Dairy is delivering the best of Illinois’ dairy.