Swiss Gruyère Wins World’s Best Cheese Award
Switzerland recently witnessed a prestigious moment in the culinary world with the announcement of the world’s best cheese for 2025. The accolade was given to an aged Swiss Gruyère produced by Bergkäserei Vorderfultigen, a small dairy located in the picturesque Alpine lowlands of western Switzerland. This recognition was part of the World Cheese Awards, an annual event showcasing exceptional cheeses globally.
World Cheese Awards 2025: Event Overview
The event took place in Bern, Switzerland, where 265 cheese experts gathered to evaluate a staggering 5,244 entries from 46 countries. Every participant had the challenging task of assessing cheeses based on various criteria, including appearance, aroma, texture, and taste. The judging took place in the Festhalle venue, filled with contrasting fragrances from merit-worthy cheeses and the lively sounds of Swiss horns in the background.
Judging Process
- Judges assessed cheeses in teams of two or three, all wearing matching yellow aprons.
- Each judge tasted at least 40 different cheeses throughout the day.
- Cheeses included a variety of milk sources: cow, sheep, buffalo, and more.
- They physically engaged with the cheeses, by cutting, crumbling, and tasting.
Judges used different palate-cleansing methods, such as sipping water and munching on apples, allowing for accurate evaluations. During this rigorous process, they identified bronze, silver, gold, and “super gold” contenders among the curated selections.
Winning Cheese and Its Maker
Pius Hitz, the cheesemaker of Bergkäserei Vorderfultigen, expressed immense pride in receiving this honor. He noted that while winning often leads to an increase in demand, he aims to maintain the delicate balance of the Gruyère market without increasing production. This careful approach ensures the continued quality of their cheese, which is celebrated for its complex flavors, described as having butterscotch and caramel notes.
Competition Highlights
The competition featured not just Swiss cheeses, but a broad range of types and flavors, including cheeses infused with whiskey and those covered in flowers. The judges’ tasks were both rewarding and challenging, as they encountered a wide array of tastes, textures, and unique presentations.
Looking Ahead
The World Cheese Awards are known for their global perspective, rotating locations annually and welcoming diverse entries from around the world. In 2026, the event will take place in Córdoba, Spain, continuing to celebrate the art of cheesemaking on an international scale.
The success of the Swiss Gruyère at the World Cheese Awards highlights the expertise and tradition behind this celebrated cheese, ensuring that it remains a favorite among cheese lovers worldwide.
