Fading D Farm, nestled in Rowan County, is a remarkable destination for cheese and ice cream enthusiasts. The farm's story begins with Faythe and David DeLoreto, who embarked on a journey to Italy to visit their family. Little did they know that their trip would spark a passion for buffalo mozzarella, an artisanal cheese they couldn't find upon their return to the United States. Fueled by their passion for cheese, Faythe and David decided to venture into raising water buffalo.
The path they chose was not an easy one, as it demanded perseverance. They set out to establish Fading D Farm, becoming pioneers as the only water buffalo farm in the South. In fact, there are just six water buffalo producers throughout the entire United States, making Fading D Farm a unique and extraordinary enterprise.
At Fading D Farm, the DeLoreto family has gone beyond their initial buffalo mozzarella production and expanded their product offerings to include a range of buffalo dairy delicacies. Visitors can indulge in the farm's exquisite buffalo dairy gelato, cultured butter, ricotta cheese, and much more.
The remarkable achievements of Fading D Farm have not gone unnoticed. The farm has received recognition in prestigious publications such as Southern Living and Our State magazines, celebrating its commitment to producing exceptional buffalo dairy products. Furthermore, Fading D Farm has been featured on PBS's North Carolina Weekend, sharing their story and showcasing the passion and dedication that goes into every aspect of their operation.
As part of the Davidson County Farm Tour, we are thrilled to include Fading D Farm in this year's itinerary. It presents a unique opportunity for visitors to witness firsthand the extraordinary journey of the DeLoreto family and experience the flavors of their artisanal buffalo dairy products.
Buffalo dairy is extremely nutritional, richer in dairy and protein as well as lower in cholesterol and sodium than traditional cow milk, and for some people, buffalo dairy is easier to digest because it is an A2 protein.
SATURDAY
WHAT TO DO - RAIN OR SHINE
Guided tours run every hour starting at 1:00 pm
Introduction to the farm
Walking tour to see adult water buffalo
Tour of milking parlor
Interact with water buffalo calves
Informative talk about buffalo, quality of buffalo milk, cheese/gelato making
WHAT TO BRING:
BRING A COOLER to stock up on cheeses, gelato, butter, buffalo meat
LOCATION: 295 Fading D Farm Rd. Salisbury, NC