The 35th biennial World Championship Cheese Contest was a success for Wisconsin cheesemakers. They have once again demonstrated their exceptional craftsmanship, earning 117 cheese awards. That’s more than the combined total of the subsequent six highest-earning competing countries and states.
The esteemed global competition received 3,302 samples of cheese, yogurt, butter, and other dairy products from 25 countries. Of the awards, Wisconsin took home 36.2 percent of the total cow’s milk cheese awards.
“These awards are a testament to the commitment and passion of our cheesemakers, and these accolades are well-deserved,” says Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin CEO Chad Vincent. “Wisconsin’s cheesemakers are dedicated to upholding the state’s rich cheesemaking tradition and delivering exceptional award-winning products to consumers worldwide.”
Making it to the list of top 20 cheeses in the world are Henning’s Cheese, Kiel, WI, for their team’s Traditional Waxed Cheddar, Sharp to Aged, and Schuman Cheese, Turtle Lake, WI, for their Cello Copper Kettle Parmesan.
Other key wins from Wisconsin include:
- 34 Best of Class awards, 36 Second Awards, and 41 Third Awards
- 38 Wisconsin cheese and dairy companies won one or more awards
- Wisconsin cheese and dairy companies swept 21 classes (took the top three places)
Wisconsin’s cheesemaking heritage goes back over 180 years, combining art and science in a tradition so rich you can taste it. The state is home to over 1,200 licensed cheesemakers who produce more than 600 varieties, types, and styles of cheese.