THORP, WIS. — Marieke Gouda founder and owner Marieke Penterman added another designation to her list of titles, becoming a certified master cheesemaker.

Graduating from Wisconsin’s signature program, Penterman became just the fourth woman to earn the distinction.

"When I began making cheese, my dream was to recreate the gouda I grew up with in the Netherlands," Penterman said. "Becoming a certified master cheesemaker is a true honor and a reflection of my unwavering commitment to crafting the highest quality cheese that I am proud to put my name on."

Marieke Gouda noted its cheeses, which are created by combining traditional Dutch methods with Wisconsin’s cheesemaking traditions, have earned more than 270 national and international awards.

Organized by the Center for Dairy Research and Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin (DFW), the Wisconsin Master Cheesemaker Program is unique in the United States. In order to achieve the master cheesemaker title, an expert must have at least 13 years of professional experience and advanced training.

DFW chief executive officer Chad Vincent said the certification is not easily earned.

"Only a select few achieve the title of Wisconsin master cheesemaker, making it a mark of unparalleled expertise and dedication,” Vincent said.

The premium cheeses crafted by Penterman are made with milk from Marieke Gouda’s dairy cows. Penterman is involved with each step of the process, from milking cows on the farm, to aging the cheeses.