Swiss Gruyere Claims Victory at World Championship Cheese Contest

by Peter April 3, 2021

written by Peter April 3, 2021

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.

Peter

Peter is a marketer with a background in business and a passion for writing. With a keen eye for detail and a talent for crafting compelling narratives, Peter has carved out a niche for himself as a versatile contributor to LifeScienceArt.com, where he enjoys sharing his insights and expertise across a wide array of topics. Peter's journey into the world of marketing began with his university education in business. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Business Administration. His academic pursuits were characterized by a deep understanding of market dynamics, consumer behavior, and strategic planning. This foundation laid the groundwork for his successful career in marketing, where he has applied his knowledge to help businesses grow and thrive in competitive landscapes. Throughout his career, Peter has worked with a diverse range of companies, from startups to large multinational conglomerates, helping them develop and execute effective marketing strategies. His experience spans various industries, including technology, healthcare, and consumer goods, reflecting his adaptability and broad skill set. Peter's ability to blend analytical thinking with creative problem-solving has made him a valuable asset in any organization he works with. Despite his busy professional life, Peter has always made time for his true passion: writing. He finds joy in the written word and believes in its power to inform, inspire, and connect people. This passion has found a perfect outlet in LifeScienceArt.com, where he contributes to all sections of the site. Whether it's penning thought-provoking articles on the latest trends in life sciences, crafting engaging profiles of industry leaders, or writing insightful pieces on art and its intersection with science, Peter brings a unique voice and perspective to his work. One of the aspects Peter cherishes most about his role at LifeScienceArt.com is the opportunity to collaborate with a wonderful cohort of writers. He values the camaraderie and the shared commitment to excellence that characterize the team. Working alongside talented and passionate individuals inspires him to continually hone his craft and push the boundaries of his writing. Outside of his professional pursuits, Peter is an avid reader and a lifelong learner. He enjoys exploring new ideas, delving into diverse genres of literature, and staying abreast of developments in science and art. His curiosity and enthusiasm for learning are reflected in his writing, where he strives to bring fresh insights and a nuanced understanding to his readers. Peter's story is one of dedication, versatility, and a deep-seated love for both marketing and writing. His contributions to LifeScienceArt.com not only enrich the site's content but also underscore the importance of passion and collaboration in creating meaningful and impactful work.