GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) – The 2019 U.S Championship Cheese Contest is Tuesday and Wednesday at Lambeau Field.
Kirsten Strohmenger, Events Manager says they are expecting a larger turnout than last year.
“We will have expert judges from across the nation judging over, 2,555 dairy products.”
Strohmenger says 26 companies from the region are competing in a field of big and small cheese makers.
“Anyone and everyone who is making cheese in the United States, so everyone is on the same stage.”
The judging and competition can be tough. Starting from a maximum possible 100 points, deductions are made for various defects found by each judge. Defects are noted in the areas of flavor, body and texture, salt, color, finish, packaging, and other appropriate attributes.
Thursday evening, the winner will be announced at the KI Convention Center where the public has a chance to score the best reward of all. “Try all the cheese til your heart’s desire.”
Contestants will have the chance to earn a medal and often enjoy a sales bump if they have the winning cheese. “It is a great recognition that you can market with.”
Strohmenger says it helps cheesemakers reach consumers easier.
The Contest judging is open for free public viewing on March 5 and 6, 2019 in the Lambeau Field Atrium. Tickets to Cheese Champion, an evening of U.S. champion cheese tasting and the announcement of the winner can be purchased online for $30!
The event will be held in the KI Convention Center in downtown Green Bay and is open to 500 attendees
