If you’re hunting for the best cheddar cheese in the world, look no further than Oregon. At the prestigious World Cheese Awards in Viseu, Portugal, Tillamook County Creamery Association’s Maker’s Reserve 2014 Extra Sharp White Cheddar was crowned the “Best Cheddar in the World.”
With over 115 years of cheesemaking history, this farmer-owned co-op wowed judges with its exceptional flavor and craftsmanship.
What Makes Tillamook Cheddar So Special?
A Decade of Perfect Aging
The secret behind Tillamook’s award-winning cheddar lies in its dedication to aging. This cheese is part of Tillamook’s Maker’s Reserve Program, which focuses on crafting vintage cheddars with unforgettable flavors.
The 2014 Extra Sharp White Cheddar underwent a meticulous 10-year aging process, developing a rich, complex taste featuring brown butter and caramel notes.
More than 240 international judges tasted and evaluated thousands of cheeses, ultimately selecting Tillamook as the best in its class. The co-op’s commitment to natural aging ensures that every bite bursts with bold and refined flavors.
A Legacy of Excellence
Jill Allen, Tillamook’s director of product excellence, emphasizes the co-op’s passion for creating high-quality cheese. “We’re proud of our Maker’s Reserve program,” Allen shares, “and thrilled that our 2014 Extra Sharp White Cheddar was recognized as the world’s best.”
Tillamook’s unique approach involves grading each batch of cheese by a team of experts, ensuring only the finest selections make it into the Maker’s Reserve Program.
How to Get Tillamook’s Award-Winning Cheese
You don’t need to travel to Oregon to try the world’s best cheddar! Products from Tillamook’s Maker’s Reserve Program, including the 2014 Extra Sharp White Cheddar, are available online directly through Tillamook’s website. You can also find them in select grocery stores across the United States.
Additional Award-Winning Cheeses from Tillamook
In addition to the “Best Cheddar in the World” title, Tillamook received two bronze awards for:
- Farmers’ Collection Hickory Smoked Extra Sharp White Cheddar
- Farmers’ Collection English-Style Sweet Cheddar
These accolades highlight the co-op’s versatility and dedication to producing top-notch cheese.
A Commitment to Animal Care
Tillamook credits its success to its farmer-owner model, which emphasizes the well-being of cows and the quality of milk they produce. As a Certified B Corporation, Tillamook ensures that all farmers meet strict standards for animal care, sustainability, and environmental responsibility.
“We believe healthier cows produce better milk,” the brand explains. “It’s a simple recipe we’ve followed for over a century and continues to deliver outstanding results.”
Vermont’s Jasper Hill Farm Shines Bright
Tillamook wasn’t the only American standout at the World Cheese Awards. Vermont-based Jasper Hill Farm earned the title of Best American Cheese for its Bayley Hazen Blue, a blue cheese made with raw milk from the farm’s herd.
What Sets Bayley Hazen Blue Apart?
Bayley Hazen Blue combines traditional techniques with American innovation. Its smooth, fudge-like texture, balanced flavors of toasted nuts, subtle sweetness, and hints of anise make it a crowd-pleaser. Unlike most blue cheeses, its peppery character is more subdued, allowing its grassy and nutty notes to shine.
Jasper Hill Farm also won multiple gold, silver, and bronze medals for other creations, including:
- Harbison
- Vault No. 5 Cheddar
- Cabot Clothbound
Their dedication to high-quality, natural-rind cheeses showcases the diversity of American cheesemaking.
A Global Competition
This year’s World Cheese Awards was the largest in its history, featuring:
- 4,786 cheeses
- 1,032 companies
- 47 countries
Judges from 39 nations evaluated the entries based on appearance, aroma, texture, flavor, and mouthfeel. With such stiff competition, Tillamook and Jasper Hill Farm’s standing out is an incredible achievement.
The United States had an impressive showing, earning 160 medals and placing fourth behind Spain, Italy, and Switzerland.
Why You Should Try Award-Winning Cheeses
Both Tillamook and Jasper Hill Farm demonstrate the artistry and dedication required to create world-class cheeses. Whether savoring Tillamook’s sharp cheddar or Jasper Hill’s creamy blue, you’re tasting the pinnacle of cheesemaking excellence.
Where to Find These Cheeses
Tillamook’s Maker’s Reserve cheddars are widely available online and in select U.S. stores. At the same time, Jasper Hill’s award-winning cheeses can often be found at specialty retailers or ordered directly from the farm.
FAQs
What makes Tillamook Maker’s Reserve Cheddar so unique?
Tillamook’s Maker’s Reserve Cheddar undergoes a meticulous aging process, often up to 10 years. This natural aging brings out complex flavors like brown butter and caramel, making it unforgettable.
Where can I buy Tillamook’s award-winning cheese?
You can purchase Tillamook’s Maker’s Reserve cheeses online through their website or at select grocery stores across the U.S.
What is Jasper Hill Farm’s Bayley Hazen Blue?
Bayley Hazen Blue is a raw-milk blue cheese from Vermont. It’s known for its creamy texture, nutty flavors, and subtle sweetness, making it approachable for any palate.
How are cheeses judged at the World Cheese Awards?
International judges evaluate cheese anonymously based on their appearance, aroma, body, texture, flavor, and overall mouthfeel.
How did the U.S. perform at the World Cheese Awards?
American cheesemakers earned 160 medals this year, with Tillamook and Jasper Hill Farm leading the way. The U.S. ranked fourth overall, showcasing its growing reputation for high-quality cheese.
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