Although Ireland has a rich milk production history due to its naturally lush grass pastures, the country's cheese-making history only recently took root. During the 17th and 18th centuries, the Irish focused their dairy production and those resources on producing butter, becoming a major butter exporter to Northern Europe and the Americas. They dominated the butter market in the same way that Holland dominated the cheese market. Furthermore, during the 19th century, Irish domestic cheese production had lost traditional aspects and taste. read more