Delilah Fine Foods is delighted to share the exciting news that our very own Sangita was part of the judging panel at the 2024 World Cheese Awards, held in Viseu, Portugal, from 15th to 17th November. This prestigious event, organised by the Guild of Fine Food, brought together 240 judges from 40 countries to evaluate 4,786 cheeses from 47 countries.
Sangita was joined by Maarten Baaker and Benjamin Vogel, and together they helped select one of the Super Gold winners at this year’s event: Pata de Mulo Curado Los Payuelos from Quesería Artesanal Los Payuelos, Spain. This exceptional cheese, made with animal rennet and raw sheep’s milk, stood out for its exquisite flavour and texture, earning it a well-deserved spot at the top of the rankings.
The World Champion Cheese: Queijo de Ovelha Amanteigado
The highlight of the event was the crowning of Queijo de Ovelha Amanteigado from Quinta do Pomar as the World Champion Cheese. This soft, ivory-coloured cheese, made with vegetarian rennet from the cardoon flower, won the admiration of the 240 judges for its perfect balance of fat and protein, combined with its unique herbal bitterness.
Sonia Marroyo, the cheesemaker behind this winning masterpiece, was deeply moved by the recognition, and her triumph represents the craftsmanship and dedication of cheesemakers around the world.
A Celebration of Cheese Excellence
The World Cheese Awards is not just about judging – it’s also a celebration of cheese culture. This year it was held at the Pavilhão Multiusos de Viseu, the event featured a wide range of activities such as cooking demonstrations, evening entertainment, and cheese tours, making it an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
The Top 14 Super Gold Cheeses
The Super Gold cheeses are then re-judged by the Top Cheese Gurus from around the world, including Roland Barthélémy (President of France’s Guilde Internationale des Fromagers), Joey Wells, and Neşe Biber…to create the ultimate cheese board of 14 cheeses to represent the crème de la crème of the competition, alas the Pata de Mulo Curado Los Payuelos was not selected to be among the Top 14but. for a closer look at those that did reach the heady heights you can explore the World Cheese Awards Top 14 Super Golds here: World Cheese Awards Top 14.
Sangita’s Judging Experience
For Sangita, being part of this global event is always exciting and a highlight of her year. As a passionate lover of fine foods and a strong advocate for artisanal producers, she was honoured to be invited to play a role in celebrating the excellence of cheeses.
Sangita and her fellow judges tasted their way through a broad spectrum of cheeses, each with unique stories, textures, and flavours. The entire experience offered a glimpse into its makers' culture, heritage, and innovative practices.
Discover the Best Cheeses at Delilah Fine Foods
If reading about these award-winning cheeses has inspired you to sample some of the finest cheeses in the world, look no further than Delilah Fine Foods. We’re proud to stock an eclectic selection of artisan cheeses, including award-winning varieties from around the globe.
Whether you’re seeking bold and complex blue cheeses, creamy and mild varieties, or intensely flavoured aged selections, our curated cheese counter is bound to satisfy your cravings for world-class dairy. Our knowledgeable staff are always on hand to offer expert advice and recommendations to help you find your perfect cheese!
Final Thoughts
The 2024 World Cheese Awards not only showcased the incredible talents of cheesemakers worldwide but also highlighted the global appreciation for the art of cheese-making. For all of us at Delilah Fine Foods, it’s inspiring to see how these awards bring together the best of the best in the cheese world.
Come and explore our selection of fine cheeses today, and take home a taste of the award-winning world of artisanal cheese from Delilah Fine Foods!