Full Breakdown
Gruyère AOP Vorderfultigen Spezial Crowned Best Cheese at 2025 World Cheese Awards
11/19/2025, 6:31:52 AM
Gruyère AOP Vorderfultigen Spezial Takes Top Honors
At the 2025 World Cheese Awards held in Bern, Switzerland, Gruyère AOP Vorderfultigen Spezial over 18 months was awarded the title of World Champion Cheese, triumphing over 5,244 entries from 46 countries. This raw cow's milk cheese, produced by Piuz Hitz at Bergkäserei Vorderfultigen, is noted for its complex flavor profile and unique texture, which includes savory tyrosine crystals. The event took place from November 13 to 15, transforming the Festhalle into a hub of cheese tasting and celebration.
Judging Process and Criteria
The judging process involved 265 experts from various fields, including affineurs, cheese graders, and journalists, who conducted blind tastings to evaluate the cheeses based on appearance, aroma, texture, and flavor. The initial round awarded Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Super Gold distinctions, with the Super Gold cheeses then assessed by a Super Jury of 14 top cheese experts. Gruyère AOP Vorderfultigen Spezial was championed by Perry Wakeman, who described it as "brothy and meaty" with a "beautiful flinty texture," emphasizing its ability to excite cheese enthusiasts.
Background on Gruyère AOP
Gruyère AOP is known for its strict production standards, which contribute to its frequent success in international competitions. This year marked a notable achievement for the Gruyère category, as it also secured the Best in Show award at the Mondial du Fromage for Le Gruyère AOP Vieux. Hitz expressed pride in the recognition, highlighting the dedication required in cheesemaking and its potential positive impact on their business.
American Representation at the Awards
Among the top cheeses, only one American entry, Stockinghall, a bandage-wrapped cheddar from Murray's Cheese, was recognized, earning the fifth-highest score. Stockinghall is made from pasteurized cow's milk sourced from New York State and aged for 12 months. Josh Windsor, associate director of caves at Murray's, noted the cheese's complex flavors and its role in challenging perceptions of American artisan cheese.
Vermont's Strong Performance
Vermont cheesemakers excelled at the awards, bringing home over 30 medals, including two Super Golds for Withersbrook Blue and West West Blue. This impressive haul underscores Vermont's growing reputation in the international cheese scene, with notable entries from producers like Cellars at Jasper Hill Farm and Vermont Creamery.
Conclusion: A Celebration of Cheese
The 2025 World Cheese Awards not only highlighted the exceptional quality of cheeses from around the world but also celebrated the cultural significance of cheese-making. The event showcased a diverse array of cheeses, with Gruyère AOP Vorderfultigen Spezial standing out as a testament to the craftsmanship and dedication of its producers. As the cheese industry continues to evolve, the recognition of such outstanding products fosters appreciation for artisanal cheese globally.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This kind of cheese is what gets people into cheese,” — Perry Wakeman, CEO of Rennet and Rind
- “It’s an honor for all the time that the cheese spends with us, around 20 months,” — Piuz Hitz, Cheesemaker at Bergkäserei Vorderfultigen
- “We are thrilled to continue to challenge international perceptions about the quality of American artisan cheese with our delicious and exceptional Stockinghall,” — Josh Windsor, Associate Director of Caves at Murray’s Cheese
- “ John Farrand, MD of the Guild of Fine Food, added: “And there you have it: the host country scoops the biggest prize in cheese again.” — John Farrand, Managing Director of the Guild of Fine Food
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the awards highlighted the success of Gruyère AOP Vorderfultigen Spezial, there were discrepancies regarding the exact number of entries and the specific rankings of other cheeses. Further clarification on the final medal counts for all participating countries is still pending.
