This interview is part of culture’s 2026 Hot List, recognizing individuals who are redefining the world of cheese. Learn more about our selection process and the latest Hot List class here.

Jacqueline Mau Mullican stands as a formidable force in the evolving landscape of American artisan cheese, particularly in the often-overlooked Southern states. As the Co-Founder and Head of Operations for GREYS Fine Cheeses, she is not merely selling cheese; she is cultivating a culture of appreciation, education, and connection across Tennessee. Her inclusion in culture magazine’s 2026 Hot List underscores her profound impact, highlighting a decisive shift from the impersonal world of industrial food to a passionate advocacy for products steeped in care and rich narratives.

With outposts in Memphis and Nashville, GREYS Fine Cheeses has become synonymous with a revolutionary approach to cheese retail, blending global perspective with quintessential Southern hospitality. Mullican’s vision, born from a transformative trip to Paris and a keen observation of her local community’s needs, has blossomed into a thriving enterprise. It’s a place where weekly classes, immersive tastings, and hands-on experiences demystify the complex world of artisan cheese, making discovery approachable and transforming cheese from a specialty item into an integral part of everyday life. Her philosophy, centered on "cheeses with soul and story," champions producers who prioritize ethical practices and environmental stewardship, thereby redefining how the South experiences and engages with this ancient culinary art.

A Journey from Industrial Scale to Artisan Craft

Jacqueline Mau Mullican’s path to becoming a leading figure in the artisan cheese industry is a compelling narrative of transformation and purpose. Her professional life began far removed from the rustic charm of a specialty cheese shop, immersed instead in the intricate, often impersonal, mechanics of large-scale food production.

The Corporate Crossroads

For years, Mullican navigated the complex supply chains of industrial food and beverage companies. This experience offered her an intimate, albeit often disheartening, view of a system driven by efficiency and volume over provenance and quality. "I spent years working in supply chain for food and beverage companies and saw firsthand the differences between industrial food systems and the products made by people who truly care about their herds and the environment," Mullican recounts. This stark contrast between the industrial ethos and a more mindful approach to food began to sow seeds of discontent and a burgeoning desire for something more authentic and connected.

Simultaneously, Mullican was undergoing a personal culinary renaissance at home. She found herself drawn to the elemental acts of food creation: baking bread, making yogurt, cultivating vegetables, and even raising chickens. This hands-on engagement with food production deepened her understanding and appreciation for ingredients that carried a story, that reflected care from farm to table. This personal journey underscored the growing disconnect she felt with her professional environment and solidified her yearning for a career that aligned with her evolving values.

The Parisian Spark and Memphis Roots

The decisive pivot came not as a sudden epiphany but as a gradual awakening, significantly catalyzed by the influence of her husband, Kurt, who introduced her to the nuanced world of artisanal cheese. This introduction was a revelation, illuminating a realm of flavor, tradition, and craftsmanship that contrasted sharply with her corporate experiences.

The idea for GREYS Fine Cheeses truly began to coalesce during a pivotal trip to Paris with her mother and daughters. In the city renowned for its profound cheese culture, Mullican witnessed firsthand the omnipresence of small, dedicated cheese shops, each a vibrant hub of community and culinary heritage. This experience wasn’t just inspiring; it was a blueprint. Returning to Memphis, she recognized a significant void in her own community. "I realized Memphis didn’t have a specialty cheese shop, and it felt important to bring that experience—good, thoughtfully sourced cheese—to my community," she explains. This realization, coupled with her growing understanding of the industrial food system’s limitations and her personal commitment to conscientious eating, laid the foundational stones for GREYS Fine Cheeses. It was a vision to create a retail concept built not just on selling products, but on education, storytelling, and access to the very best of the artisan cheese world.

GREYS Fine Cheeses: Cultivating a Culture of Curiosity

From its inception, GREYS Fine Cheeses was designed to be more than just a retail establishment; it was envisioned as a community hub dedicated to demystifying artisan cheese and fostering genuine connections between producers and consumers. The rapid growth of GREYS, with locations now thriving in both Memphis and Nashville, speaks volumes about Mullican’s insightful approach and the Southern community’s readiness for this culinary awakening.

Education at the Core

At the heart of GREYS’s mission is a profound commitment to education. Mullican recognized that for many in the South, artisan cheese was an unfamiliar territory, often perceived as intimidating or elitist. Her goal was to dismantle these barriers, making the world of cheese accessible and exciting. "Many people here are just starting to learn about artisanal cheese and that it’s a living product. Education is everything for us," Mullican emphasizes. This educational philosophy is embedded in every interaction at GREYS, from casual conversations at the counter to structured weekly classes.

The concept of "cheeses with soul and story" is not merely a catchy slogan; it’s a guiding principle that informs GREYS’s entire selection process and educational programming. Each cheese stocked is chosen not just for its flavor profile, but for the narrative it carries—the history of the cheesemaker, the unique terroir, the specific breed of animal, and the traditional methods employed. By sharing these stories, GREYS transforms a simple purchase into a cultural experience, allowing customers to connect more deeply with the food they consume.

The shop hosts a diverse array of weekly classes, designed to broaden palates and expand understanding. These range from fundamental "Introduction to Cheese" sessions to more specialized pairing workshops. Customers can explore the intricate dance between cheese and various beverages, including wine, beer, and whiskey, pushing the boundaries with less conventional yet equally rewarding pairings such as sake and mezcal. These classes are more than just tasting sessions; they are interactive learning environments where participants gain practical knowledge, develop their sensory discernment, and build confidence in exploring new flavors.

One of the most rewarding aspects for Mullican and her team is witnessing the transformation of their customers. "What we love most is seeing people discover us and then become regulars, shifting from buying cheese at the grocery store to coming in, asking questions, and engaging with a cheesemonger," she shares. This shift represents a significant triumph for GREYS and, by extension, for the artisan producers they champion. It signifies a growing appreciation for quality, craftsmanship, and the value of expert guidance in a world often dominated by mass-produced alternatives.

Bridging Global Palates with Southern Hospitality

Mullican’s vision for GREYS successfully bridges a global perspective on cheese with the inherent warmth and welcoming nature of Southern hospitality. The shops are designed to be inviting, comfortable spaces where curiosity is encouraged, and questions are celebrated. This deliberate atmosphere fosters an environment where discovery feels approachable, stripping away any pretense often associated with specialty foods.

By curating a selection that includes both celebrated European classics and emerging American artisan cheeses, GREYS offers a comprehensive journey through the world of cheese. This global reach is balanced by a strong commitment to local engagement, ensuring that the community feels a sense of ownership and pride in their local cheese shop. Mullican’s ability to infuse international sophistication with genuine Southern charm has been instrumental in making artisan cheese a cherished part of everyday life for her growing clientele.

Navigating Challenges and Celebrating Triumphs

Opening and sustaining a specialty retail business, particularly one dedicated to a niche product like artisan cheese in a relatively nascent market, inevitably presents a unique set of challenges. Yet, for Jacqueline Mau Mullican and GREYS Fine Cheeses, these hurdles have been met with innovative solutions and a steadfast commitment to their mission, leading to significant triumphs.

The Unique Landscape of Southern Sourcing

One of the most persistent challenges Mullican identifies lies in the very uniqueness of GREYS’s market position. "I always say the best thing about GREYS is that we’re the only ones in our market doing this—and the hardest thing is that we’re the only ones in our market doing this," she states. This duality encapsulates the pioneering spirit required to introduce a new culinary concept. While being a leader offers unparalleled opportunities, it also means navigating uncharted territory without the benefit of established infrastructure or robust supply chains common in more mature artisan food markets.

Sourcing unique artisan cheese in the South presents specific logistical and financial complexities. While Mullican is quick to laud "some incredible Southern producers," acknowledging the burgeoning local talent, the reality is that the majority of small-batch, high-quality artisan cheeses are produced in other regions, particularly the Northeast and Pacific Northwest. This geographical disparity translates directly into high shipping costs and complicated logistics. Maintaining the delicate temperature requirements for cheese during transit over long distances adds another layer of difficulty, making it expensive and challenging to ensure product integrity from farm to shop. GREYS must meticulously plan its inventory and shipping routes, often absorbing higher costs to bring the best products to its customers.

Early Validations and Community Embrace

Despite these operational challenges, GREYS has experienced significant victories, often affirmed by the very community it seeks to serve. One of the most critical confirmations came even before the official opening of their first shop. Mullican strategically engaged in collaborations with local restaurants, introducing their curated cheese selections through special events and tasting menus.

The resounding success of these pre-opening initiatives served as a powerful validation of Mullican’s vision. "The success of those events showed us the community was ready—and excited—for what we were building," she reflects. This early enthusiasm not only provided a much-needed morale boost but also demonstrated a tangible market demand for artisan cheese in Memphis. It proved that the community was eager to embrace thoughtfully sourced products and the stories behind them, paving the way for GREYS to establish itself as a beloved local institution. These initial collaborations forged crucial partnerships within the local culinary scene and laid a strong foundation of community trust and anticipation.

The Heart of GREYS: Engagement and Identity

Beyond the business operations and logistical complexities, the true essence of GREYS Fine Cheeses lies in its commitment to genuine engagement and the personal identity that Jacqueline Mau Mullican imbues into every facet of her enterprise.

The Power of Introduction

Among the myriad classes and tasting experiences offered at GREYS, Mullican holds a special fondness for the "Introduction to Cheese" class. This foundational course is where the most profound transformations occur, as participants shed preconceived notions and embrace a new understanding of cheese. "Watching people learn that cheese is a living product—and that it can be a full, satisfying meal on its own—is incredibly rewarding," she explains. This class is designed to demystify cheese, moving it beyond a mere condiment or appetizer to recognize its rightful place as a complex, nourishing food item in its own right.

The impact of these introductory sessions is deeply personal for Mullican. When a customer leaves the shop with a renewed perspective, thinking about cheese differently and perhaps even considering it as the centerpiece of a meal, it reaffirms the core purpose of GREYS. "When someone walks away thinking about cheese differently, that’s exactly why we opened GREYS," she says, highlighting the deep satisfaction derived from fostering true culinary enlightenment. This foundational education empowers customers to explore further, ask more questions, and ultimately become more adventurous and informed cheese lovers.

Weaving Heritage into Business

Mullican’s Cuban heritage is not just a personal detail; it is a vibrant thread woven throughout the fabric of GREYS Fine Cheeses, enriching its offerings and expanding its cultural reach. She expresses immense pride in her background and actively seeks opportunities to incorporate it into her business.

A prominent example of this integration is the beloved Cuban sandwich offered at GREYS. Authenticity is paramount to Mullican, which is why she goes to great lengths to source specific ingredients. "Our Cuban sandwiches are a big one—I fly in bread from a Cuban bakery in Miami because authenticity matters," she reveals. This dedication ensures that the flavors are true to tradition, offering customers a genuine taste of her heritage. Beyond the culinary, Mullican also incorporates Spanish into GREYS’s newsletter, with aspirations to eventually create a fully Spanish version, further engaging with and serving the diverse communities in Memphis and Nashville.

Her commitment to her heritage extends to an active exploration of cheeses from Central and South America. Mullican has personally traveled to countries like Argentina, Uruguay, and Honduras, meeting local cheesemakers and immersing herself in regional cheese-making traditions. These expeditions are not just for personal enrichment; they are driven by a desire to broaden GREYS’s selection and introduce these unique, often lesser-known, cheeses to her clientele. "Bringing those stories back to our customers is something I care deeply about," she states, emphasizing the importance of cultural exchange and the sharing of global culinary legacies.

The Playful Origin of a Distinctive Name

The name "GREYS" itself carries a subtle playfulness that reflects Mullican’s approach to making cheese approachable and enjoyable. The genesis of the name emerged during a time when charcuterie boards were rapidly gaining popularity, and the term "graze" was ubiquitous in culinary discourse.

Mullican sought a name that was memorable and evocative but also possessed a certain charm and originality. "It’s a play on the word ‘graze’," she explains, indicating a clever twist on a trending concept. While initially, some customers mistakenly assumed "GREYS" was her last name, the narrative behind its coinage quickly endears it to them. "Once they hear the story, they love it," she confirms. This playful yet meaningful name perfectly encapsulates GREYS’s ethos: inviting customers to explore, savor, and enjoy the rich world of artisan cheese in a relaxed and engaging manner.

Inspiring a New Generation of Cheese Leaders

Jacqueline Mau Mullican’s journey with GREYS Fine Cheeses is not merely a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit; it also serves as a significant source of inspiration for the broader artisan cheese industry, particularly in championing diversity and fostering future leaders.

Championing Women in Cheese

When asked about her inspirations within the cheese industry, Mullican finds it challenging to single out just one individual. Instead, her admiration extends collectively to "women in cheese." This collective inspiration highlights a growing recognition of the vital contributions women make across all facets of the industry, from cheesemaking to retail and education. She points to figures like Padgett Arnold of Sequatchie Cove Creamery and Melanie Webb of Stony Pond Farm, both of whom "pour their lives into their work." These women exemplify the dedication, passion, and skill required to produce exceptional artisan cheeses, often against considerable odds. Their success serves as a powerful beacon for others in the field.

Beyond the domestic scene, Mullican draws particular inspiration from international figures, notably Carolina Vilhena in Brazil. Vilhena’s success resonates deeply with Mullican, who acknowledges the underrepresentation of Latin women in the cheese industry. "There aren’t many Latin women in this industry, and seeing her success opens doors for people like me," Mullican asserts. This sentiment underscores the broader implications of diverse representation: when individuals from underrepresented backgrounds achieve prominence, they not only inspire others but also pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable industry. Mullican’s anticipation of visiting and learning from Vilhena firsthand further exemplifies her commitment to continuous learning and cross-cultural exchange, fostering a global network of support and collaboration among women in cheese.

The Future of Southern Artisan Cheese

GREYS Fine Cheeses, under Mullican’s leadership, has positioned itself as a pioneering force in the Southern artisan food movement. By demonstrating the viability and demand for high-quality, thoughtfully sourced cheese in a region not traditionally celebrated for it, GREYS has become a catalyst for change. The growing appreciation for artisan food in the South is part of a larger national trend, but GREYS’s localized success proves that the region is ripe for such culinary exploration and development.

The implications of GREYS’s model extend beyond mere retail success. It fosters local economies by supporting small-scale producers, both within the South and across the nation. It enriches the cultural landscape by introducing new flavors and traditions, broadening palates, and encouraging a more mindful approach to food consumption. Mullican’s unwavering dedication to education, storytelling, and community engagement ensures that GREYS will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Southern artisan cheese, inspiring both consumers and aspiring entrepreneurs alike to embrace the "soul and story" inherent in every exquisite wedge. Her work is a powerful testament to the idea that passion, purpose, and a deep respect for heritage can indeed redefine an entire culinary experience.

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