World Cheese Awards: Best 2024 cheese

The World Cheese Awards 2024 recently crowned Queijo de Ovelha Amanteigado as the best cheese in the world. This soft, raw ewes’ milk cheese from Portugal stood out among 4,786 entries from 47 countries, impressing a panel of 240 cheese experts.

Produced by Quinta do Pomar in Soalheira, Portugal, this cheese is made with vegetarian rennet created from thistles. It is described as gooey, glossy, and buttery with a hint of herby bitterness. The cheese is typically served by slicing off the top and spooning out the center, offering a unique and delightful experience for cheese lovers.

The World Cheese Awards is a prestigious event that gathers cheeses of all shapes, colors, sizes, ages, and textures. Judges evaluate each entry based on appearance, feel, smell, taste, and texture in the mouth. The competition is fierce, with cheeses from around the world competing for top honors.

While some might argue that local cheeses have a home advantage, the judging process is blind to ensure fairness. The goal is to recognize the best cheeses, regardless of their country of origin. The competition also awards the best cheeses by country and style, highlighting the diversity and quality of cheeses worldwide.

In recent years, different cheeses from various countries have claimed the top prize, showcasing the global appeal of cheese production. The World Cheese Awards not only celebrates the art of cheese making but also supports small producers by providing them with recognition and opportunities to promote their products.

The event is a testament to the vibrant and diverse cheese community worldwide. Winning an award at the World Cheese Awards can significantly impact small producers, helping them gain visibility and expand their business. It is a celebration of craftsmanship, innovation, and passion for cheese that resonates across borders and cultures.

Overall, the World Cheese Awards 2024 was a testament to the creativity and excellence of cheese makers worldwide. Queijo de Ovelha Amanteigado may have taken the top prize, but all participants contributed to a showcase of the best cheeses from around the globe. Cheers to the world of cheese and the artisans who continue to push the boundaries of flavor and quality.