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France wins world’s best cheese for first time in 15 years as British entries arrive late to award ceremony
A 24-month-aged Comté from eastern France won the World Cheese Awards, giving France its first victory in 15 years. British entries were delayed at customs and by transport disruption, and none of the cheeses that arrived in time reached the final 14.
The competition drew 5,330 cheeses from 45 countries, judged by 270 experts from 51 nations in Córdoba, Spain. Switzerland and Italy each placed four cheeses in the top 14; Spain had three and France two. The organisers say late British entries may still be assessed, while London is set to host the 2027 awards.
In short
- A 24-month-aged French Comté took the top prize.
- British cheeses missed the final after export delays.
- London will host the awards in 2027.
Explained simply
Comté is a firm cheese made in eastern France, traditionally from cows’ milk and matured for different lengths of time. The World Cheese Awards is an international competition in which expert judges assess cheeses from many countries.
The awards bring together cheesemakers, judges and organisers, and results can draw attention to different cheese-making regions. The competition has travelled between host cities, with London due to host in 2027.
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