Final call for entries for World Cheese Awards 2023
The organizers have also released information on the Academy of Cheese’s Young Cheesemonger of the Year competition, which has now opened for entries.
Entries from more than 40 countries have been submitted so far, and cheesemakers have been urged to join at the earliest opportunity as the closing date would be brought forward if capacity is met. This year will be the 35th edition of the World Cheese Awards, the largest ‘cheese-only’ event of its kind globally.
Deadline to enter the competition is Friday, September 8, 2023.
John Farrand, managing director of the Guild of Fine Food, organisers of the competition, commented: “We’re already seeing entries coming in from all over the world and have recently spoken to cheesemakers in South America, Spain, Italy, UK and Norway about their submission as part of our programme of entry webinars to help even the smallest producer take part. We’re proud of our network of eighteen consolidated shipment points around the world, which enable cheeses from over 40 countries get to us with minimal cost to the producer.”
“Whether you're a cheesemaker, cheese buyer, or cheese seller, join us in Trondheim, Norway at the World Cheese Market for an extraordinary opportunity to immerse yourself in a huge variety of cheeses and connect with industry experts from across the globe. We are excited to be returning to Norway, this time to discover Trondheim’s food and drink culture, rich history, and breath-taking natural beauty.”
Young cheesemongers, unite!
The deadline for Young Cheesemonger of the Year is September 15, 2023. Under 30s can enter for a chance to receive a trophy and secure a place on the Academy of Cheese Level Two Member certification course. The competition has been established to celebrate rising talent, promote cheese knowledge, and provide career development opportunities to a younger generation within the industry.
The applicants can enter for free but need to provide a short biography and submit recommendations for their ‘perfect cheeseboard’. Shortlisted entrants will be invited to attend the World Cheese Awards, taking place in Trondheim, Norway, on October 27, 2023.
There, they will compete against their peers across four rounds - delivery of the rationale behind their initial cheeseboard selection; demonstration of their ‘cut and wrap’ skills; a cheese identification round, and the final round, MasterRind - a quiz, about cheeses from around the world.
Tracey Colley, director of the Academy of Cheese, said: “The Academy is delighted to continue its support to find the Young Cheesemonger of the Year. This esteemed award aligns with the Academy's core values of promoting expertise and understanding within the industry. We intend young cheesemongers nurture their passion for this field through our accreditation programme in the years ahead. It is worth noting that past contenders have achieved remarkable success in the cheese industry, securing positions such as Senior Buyer, Head Cheesemaker and Cheese Grader.”
In 2022, Le Gruyére AOP surchoix was crowned World Champion Cheese after coming just five points clear of the runner-up Gorgonzola Dolce DOP.
