Wisconsin Cheesemakers Triumph at 2026 American Cheese Society Awards

Wisconsin's cheesemakers showcased exceptional talent at the 2026 American Cheese Society (ACS) Judging & Competition held in Louisville, Kentucky, amassing 106 awards. This achievement represents over 31% of the total awards distributed at the event, underscoring Wisconsin's leading position in the artisan cheese industry.

The event is highly regarded as a premier platform for artisan cheese and cultured dairy products from across the Americas. Marieke Gouda, a prominent cheese producer based in Thorp, Wisconsin, received significant recognition. Its Marieke Gouda Golden Mature was named the Highest-Scoring American Original, and its Marieke Gouda Mature was included in the Top 11 “Best of Show”.

Klondike Cheese Company emerged as the top award-winner among Wisconsin's participants, taking home 20 awards. Other notable multi-award recipients included BelGioioso Cheese Inc. and Schuman Cheese, each with nine awards, and Marieke Gouda, with a total of eight. Arena Cheese and Deer Creek Cheese each secured seven awards, while Widmer’s Cheese Cellars added six to its accolades.

Chad Vincent, CEO of Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin, highlighted the awards as a testament to the skill and dedication of the state's dairy producers. Wisconsin hosts over 1,200 licensed cheesemakers, contributing to more than half of the specialty and artisan cheese produced in the United States.

This success comes at a critical time as the state navigates complex retail dynamics and changing consumer tastes. The recognition further solidifies the economic value of Wisconsin's specialty cheese, enhancing its market position against international competition.