World Championship Cheese Contest Crowns Swiss Gruyere
The Prestigious Competition
Every two years, the World Championship Cheese Contest brings together cheesemakers from around the globe to showcase their finest creations. This year’s contest, held in Madison, Wisconsin, featured over 3,600 entries from 26 nations. After days of deliberation, a panel of 55 experts from 19 countries selected the Gourmino Le Gruyere AOP from Switzerland as the grand prize winner.
The Winning Cheese
Crafted by Michael Spycher of Mountain Dairy Fritzenhaus, Gourmino Le Gruyere AOP is a cow’s milk cheese known for its “subtle, sophisticated flavor.” To achieve its distinctive taste, the cheese is aged for two years in mountain caves, allowing it to fully mature.
The Cheesemaker’s Legacy
Michael Spycher is a renowned cheesemaker in Switzerland, having won numerous awards for his dairy creations. This is not his first victory at the World Championship Cheese Contest; he also won in 2008 with another batch of Swiss cheese.
Wisconsin’s Dairy Dominance
Despite the international competition, Wisconsin cheesemakers made a strong showing at the contest, taking home 45 gold medals out of the 132 categories. This dominance is a testament to Wisconsin’s reputation as “America’s Dairyland.”
The History of Gruyere Cheese
Gruyere cheese has a rich and storied history. For nearly a millennium, dairy connoisseurs have adhered to the same recipe to craft this exceptional cheese. The traditional production methods, including the two-year ripening period in mountain caves, contribute to Gruyere’s unique flavor and texture.
The Gruyere Cheesemaking Process
Creating Gruyere cheese is a labor-intensive process that requires skill and patience. The cheese is made from cow’s milk, which is heated and then coagulated with rennet. The resulting curds are cut and cooked, then placed in molds and pressed. The cheese wheels are then brined and aged in mountain caves for a minimum of two years.
The Health Benefits of Gruyere Cheese
Gruyere cheese is not only delicious but also nutritious. It is a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamins A, B2, and B12. Gruyere also contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which has been linked to various health benefits, including reduced inflammation and improved heart health.
Gourmet Uses for Gruyere Cheese
Gruyere cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It can be melted over pasta or vegetables, grated into salads, or crumbled onto sandwiches and pizzas. Gruyere is also a popular choice for cheese platters and fondue.
Finding the Best Gruyere Cheese
If you’re looking for the best Gruyere cheese, look for wheels that are firm and have a slightly shiny rind. The cheese should have a nutty, slightly sweet flavor with a hint of caramel. You can find high-quality Gruyere cheese at specialty cheese shops and online retailers.
Conclusion
The World Championship Cheese Contest is a prestigious event that celebrates the art and science of cheesemaking. This year’s grand prize winner, Gourmino Le Gruyere AOP from Switzerland, is a testament to the skill and dedication of cheesemakers around the world. Whether you’re a cheese enthusiast or simply appreciate fine food, be sure to add Gruyere cheese to your culinary repertoire.