MADISON, WIS. — The Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WCMA) began accepting entries Nov. 2 for the 2022 World Championship Cheese Contest. The association has hosted this biennial contest since 1957 and bills it as the largest technical dairy products evaluation in the world. The contest will include 141 classes of dairy products, including expanded classifications for washed rind, sheep’s milk, blue, and cream cheeses, as well as instantized whey protein.

In 2020, a record-setting 3,667 entries were submitted from 26 countries and 36 US states. A Gruyère made in Bern, Switzerland by Michael Spycher of Bergkäserei Fritzenhaus for Gourmino AG ultimately became the 2020 World Champion Cheese.

“Competing in the World Championship Cheese Contest isn’t just a way to earn a prestigious title – it’s a way for cheesemakers to show potential customers just how outstanding their products really are,” said John Umhoefer, WCMA Executive Director. “WCMA is proud to offer a platform to recognize excellence in the industry and help connect industry professionals with cheese lovers all over the world.”

All entries must be submitted by January 26, 2022 at WorldChampionCheese.org. Entries cost $75 per product when submitted online. Paper submissions cost $85 per product. Judging will occur March 1-3 at the Monona Terrace Convention Center in Madison, Wisconsin.

Entries are evaluated by a team of skilled technical judges from all over the world. Starting from a maximum possible 100 points, deductions are made for various defects found by each judge. Defects are noted in the areas of flavor, body and texture, salt, color, finish, packaging, and other appropriate attributes. A Gold medal, Silver medal and Bronze medal are awarded to the three highest-scoring entries in each class.