Video Added to Artisan Cheese Festival Gallery

Walking into the 7th Annual Artisan Cheese Festival tent at the Petaluma Sheraton Hotel might as well been a trip into paradise. Attendees were immediately doused with the aroma of smoked cheddars, aged goudas and buttery bries.

The Artisan Cheese Tasting & Marketplace finale brought together more than 75 artisan cheesemakers, winemakers, brewers and chefs to sample and sell their products in this feast for the senses.

Maps, wine glasses, and cooler tote bags were provided upon entrance as attendees attempted to navigate the maze of cheese, wine and beer.

Healdsburg's The Cheese Shop was there. "I've been with the festival since the beginning," said owner Doralice Handal. "I usually bring up-and-coming vendors with me to give them exposure.

"This time I had a woman from Seattle, Ariel Ross, who had dehydrated fruit, as an alternative to crackers."

Festival Director Judy Groverman Walker said, “The festival is a much-anticipated, cheese-lover’s paradise and allows guests to see every step of the farm-to-table process of cheesemaking, while highlighting the extraordinary local talent we have in this field.”

What is your favorite cheese? Tell us in the comments.