The 37th edition of the prestigious World Cheese Awards took place last week in Bern, Switzerland. Woolworths came tops with an exceptional range that stood out among the winners, reaffirming its position as a leader in quality and innovation.
Organised by the Guild of Fine Food, a British organisation dedicated to celebrating artisan food and drink, the competition has been spotlighting exceptional cheese producers from around the globe since 1988.
With over 5 000 cheeses from nearly 50 countries, the World Cheese Awards is widely regarded as the most distinguished event in the global cheese calendar.
Of its 20 submissions, Woolworths suppliers proudly took home 10 awards: five Bronze, one silver, three gold, and, even more impressively, a super gold qward – a momentous accomplishment.
A world-class judging panel
Event organisers curate an international judging panel of over 200 leading cheese experts, a balanced mix of technical experts, chefs, buyers, acclaimed food journalists, and passionate connoisseurs, including prominent industry names like Giles & Charlie Barber (Barber’s Cheese), Jason Hinds (Borough Cheese Company) and Cathy Strange (Whole Foods Market).
Suzy O’Regan, Woolworths’ product development manager for central sensory quality, celebrated her 15th year as a judge at the awards, stepping into the role of team coordinator this year.
She also brought eight years of experience as a supreme judge, one of the select few entrusted with choosing the World Champion Cheese.
“It’s such an honour to be part of the judging panel for this prestigious event, alongside some of the loveliest, most knowledgeable and passionate people in the industry,” she said.
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Judging at the World Cheese Awards is meticulous and transparent. Each cheese is tasted blind, with no indication of its name or producer until the end.
The judges, divided into teams of two or three and led by a team coordinator, assess the appearance of the rind and paste, the aroma, texture, mouthfeel, and most importantly, the flavour of their allocated cheeses.
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Proudly South African wins
Following this rigorous process, Woolworths’ cheeses, made in close collaboration with its trusted and dedicated local cheesemakers, earned a host of accolades.
Bronze awards were received for cheeses produced by Klein River, Fairview and Lactalis, including its Klein River Havarti, Klein River Oak Smoked Stanford, Lactalis 10 months matured Gouda, Lactalis 20 months matured Gouda, and Fairview Paarl Rock Brie, a phenomenal accomplishment for a brand-new cheese, exclusive to Woolworths.
The Klein River Gruberg Vintage 12 months matured earned a silver, and three other Woolworths-exclusive creations, the Fairview Chevre Roue, Dalewood Fromage Huguenot and Klein River Gruberg 6 months matured, each secured a gold.
“I’m incredibly proud of Woolworths’ unwavering commitment to delivering cheeses of the highest quality. Woolworths remains dedicated to collaborating with top-quality cheese producers, and our cheesemakers and partners are the true heroes behind these wins.
“Their expertise, drive for continuous innovation, and passion help us ensure that Woolies’ award-winning products continue to delight both everyday cheese lovers and gourmet enthusiasts alike. We are extremely proud of our team and suppliers whose hard work made this achievement possible,” she said.
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