TILLAMOOK, ORE. — Tillamook County Creamery Association left the 2024 World Cheese Awards in Portugal with another title for its decorated Maker’s Reserve Extra Sharp White Cheddar, which was deemed the “Best Cheddar Cheese” by 244 international judges.

The 2014 vintage cheddar, Tillamook shared, benefits from a long, natural aging process, after which the company’s director of product excellence, Jill Allen, and her team of tasting experts select only a few batches for the Maker’s Reserve line.

The farmer-owned cooperative also earned bronze awards for its Tillamook Farmers' Collection Hickory Smoked Extra Sharp White Cheddar and Tillamook Farmers' Collection English Style Sweet Cheddar at the competition in Viseu, Portugal.

"Our Maker's Reserve cheddars are truly special and reflect the all-important factor of time,” Allen said. “Our aging process transforms the cheese into an unforgettable tasting experience. The recognition of our 2014 Maker's Reserve Extra Sharp White Cheddar as the best cheddar in the world is an incredible honor and a true reflection of our company's commitment to making extraordinary dairy."

Every year, Tillamook releases 10-year and three-year aged extra sharp white cheddar cheeses for its Maker’s Reserve line.

The 2024 World Cheese Awards saw 4,786 cheeses from 1,032 companies in 47 countries submitted to be scrutinized by expert judges from around the world. A blind judging process included evaluating cheeses on appearance, aroma, body, texture, flavor and mouthfeel.

A complete list of this year’s award-winning cheeses is available online at the Guild of Fine Food website.