World Cheese Awards

World Cheese Awards
Status	Active
Genre	Cheese competition
Date(s)	Annually
Frequency	Annual
Location(s)	Varies
Country	Varies
Years active	1988–present
Inaugurated	1988
Participants	International
Activity	Cheese judging and awards
Organized by	Guild of Fine Food

The World Cheese Awards is an annual cheese competition that brings together cheesemakers, retailers, buyers, and food commentators globally to judge thousands of cheese entries from around the world. Established in 1988, the event is organized by the Guild of Fine Food and has grown to become one of the most significant and respected competitions in the cheese industry.

History

The World Cheese Awards was first held in 1988 with the aim of celebrating excellence in cheese-making and promoting diverse cheese varieties from different countries. Over the years, the event has seen exponential growth in the number of entries and the variety of cheeses judged, reflecting the burgeoning global interest in artisan and specialty cheeses.

Event Overview

During the World Cheese Awards, cheeses are categorized and judged in a single day by a panel of internationally recognized experts from the cheese industry, including cheesemakers, technical experts, buyers, and food writers. Each cheese is scored on criteria such as texture, flavor, and appearance. The highest-scoring cheeses are then re-judged by a Super Jury to determine the supreme champion, known as the "World Champion Cheese."

Location and Participation

The location of the World Cheese Awards changes annually, often held in different countries to highlight the host nation's dairy industry and promote international cheese culture. This mobility allows a diverse range of participants and attendees from various countries to engage with and experience the competition.

Impact and Significance

The World Cheese Awards plays a crucial role in the cheese industry. Winning or even being shortlisted can significantly impact a cheesemaker's reputation, opening up new markets and increasing demand. The awards also help in promoting cheese diversity and educating the public about the wide range of cheese styles and traditions worldwide.

See Also

• Cheese
• Guild of Fine Food
• Cheesemaking