Hey there, cheese lovers and culinary adventurers! Get ready to dive deep into the fantastic world of dairy excellence, because we're about to unpack the truly magnificent World Cheese Awards 2021 results. This isn't just about listing winners; it's about celebrating the incredible artistry, dedication, and passion that cheesemakers pour into their craft from every corner of our amazing globe. Think of it as the Olympics for cheese, where the best of the best gather to showcase their masterpieces, and a panel of expert judges, with palates sharper than a cheddar knife, crown the champions. The 2021 edition, held in Oviedo, Asturias, Spain, was particularly special, not just because it brought together an astounding 4,078 cheeses from 45 countries, but because it reminded us all of the joy of connection and shared experience after a challenging period. It was a vibrant, bustling event that saw thousands of entries rigorously tasted, debated, and ultimately, celebrated. For cheese enthusiasts like us, understanding these results is like getting a treasure map to the most exquisite flavors and textures imaginable. We’re talking about cheeses that tell stories, embody traditions, and push the boundaries of innovation. From the creamiest blues to the hardest, most complex aged wheels, the competition highlighted an unparalleled diversity that truly defines the global cheese landscape. In this article, guys, we’re going to walk you through the highlights, reveal the ultimate champion, shine a light on some other remarkable gold medalists, explain why these awards are so incredibly important to the industry and to your taste buds, and even give you some tips on how to get your hands on these award-winning cheeses. So, buckle up, because your cheese journey is about to get a serious upgrade as we explore the best of the World Cheese Awards 2021!

The Supreme Champion: Unveiling the World's Best Cheese of 2021

Alright, let’s get straight to the creamy, glorious heart of the matter: the Supreme Champion of the World Cheese Awards 2021. And the absolute, undisputed, best cheese in the entire world for 2021 was… Gruyère AOP surchoix! Specifically, this magnificent winning wheel was crafted by Vorderfultigen and entered by affineur Gourmino from Switzerland. Now, this isn't just any Gruyère, guys; this is a surchoix, which signifies a selection of the highest quality, aged to perfection, offering a truly extraordinary experience. Imagine a cheese with a rich, complex history, steeped in centuries of Swiss tradition, brought to life by master cheesemakers who dedicate their lives to perfection. Gruyère AOP surchoix is renowned for its firm yet supple texture, which, when cut, often reveals tiny, tantalizing crystals that burst with flavor. Its aroma is deeply aromatic, a delightful blend of nutty, earthy, and slightly sweet notes that immediately captivate the senses. But it's the taste that truly seals the deal: a symphony of flavors that unfold on the palate, starting with a creamy sweetness, evolving into robust, savory, and intensely nutty undertones, and finishing with a long, satisfying finish that leaves you craving more. The judges, an elite panel of 250 experts from 38 countries, were absolutely captivated. They praised its impeccable balance, its profound depth of flavor, and its flawless execution. During the final Super Gold round, where the very best 98 cheeses battled it out for the top spot, the Gruyère AOP surchoix stood out as a beacon of artisanal excellence. One judge reportedly described it as “a truly perfect cheese,” highlighting its incredible texture and the persistent, complex flavors that spoke volumes of its careful maturation and exceptional provenance. It edged out a very close second place, a Spanish goat’s milk cheese called Deliziosa from Quesos y Besos, by just a few points, underscoring the fierce competition but ultimately proving that its superior qualities shone brightest. This victory isn't just a win for Gourmino or Switzerland; it's a testament to the timeless appeal of Gruyère, showcasing how traditional methods, when combined with meticulous care and a commitment to quality, can produce a cheese that resonates with palates across the globe. This World Cheese Awards 2021 winner sets a benchmark for what truly outstanding cheese should taste like, inviting us all to appreciate the nuance and dedication behind every incredible bite.

Beyond the Gold: Highlighting Other Stellar Performers from WCA 2021

While the Gruyère AOP surchoix rightly took home the ultimate crown as Supreme Champion at the World Cheese Awards 2021, it's crucial to remember that it was surrounded by an incredible constellation of other stellar performers. Out of over 4,000 entries, hundreds received Gold, Super Gold, and Bronze medals, showcasing an astonishing diversity of talent and innovation from across the globe. These awards are a massive recognition, guys, and each medal represents a cheese that truly stood out to the judges for its exceptional quality, flavor, and texture. For instance, the second-place finisher, Deliziosa, an unpasteurised goat’s milk cheese from Quesos y Besos in Spain, was lauded for its striking originality and creamy texture, proving that bold new flavors can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with established classics. This incredible achievement highlights the vibrant Spanish cheese scene and the adventurous spirit of its cheesemakers. We also saw some truly fantastic blue cheeses making a big splash, with entries from countries like Italy, France, and the UK demonstrating the incredible range and complexity achievable in this category. Imagine a pungent, creamy Gorgonzola piccante earning a Super Gold, its sharp, salty notes perfectly balanced, or a robust Stilton with its distinctive marbling and crumbly texture delighting the judges. Then there were the innovative goat and sheep’s milk cheeses, often pushing boundaries with unique aging processes or infusions. A particular standout might have been an aged sheep's milk cheese from Portugal, celebrated for its nutty, caramel notes and a surprisingly melt-in-your-mouth texture that caught the judges completely off guard. The competition also highlighted the continuing strength of artisan producers from smaller regions, who often use centuries-old techniques passed down through generations. These producers consistently deliver cheeses that are deeply rooted in their local terroir, offering truly unique flavor profiles that can't be replicated anywhere else. Think of a small, family-run creamery in Ireland producing an incredible cheddar that showcases the richness of their pasture-fed cows, or a Dutch Gouda aged for five years, developing incredible depth and crystalline crunch. Each of these World Cheese Awards 2021 medalists represents countless hours of hard work, meticulous attention to detail, and a deep understanding of cheesemaking science and art. They confirm that the global cheese community is thriving, constantly evolving, and consistently producing culinary masterpieces that deserve our attention and appreciation.

The Impact and Significance: Why the World Cheese Awards 2021 Matter

So, you might be wondering,