Swiss Gruyère Crowned World Cheese Champion: What This Means for Oman’s Gourmet Business Landscape
A Swiss Gruyère cheese has been named the 2025 World Cheese Champion, triumphing over more than 5,000 competitors from 46 countries. The 18-month-old Vorderfultigen Spezial, crafted by Bergkaserei Vorderfultigen, earned top honors at the World Cheese Awards held in Bern, Switzerland’s capital.
This distinguished cheese originates from a mountain dairy in the pre-Alps region of Gantrisch, located just south of Bern. Grand final judge Perry Wakeman praised the cheese for its ability to excite cheese lovers, noting its exceptional texture and complex flavors. "It’s a big old cheese—with a lot going on. The texture is beautiful; it’s flinty as you break it apart, and the delicate crystals within are remarkable," he remarked.
This year marked the first time the World Cheese Awards, established by Britain’s Guild of Fine Food in 1988, were held in Switzerland, renowned for its cheese. Gruyère cheeses have previously won this prestigious award five times.
Judging at the event involved a meticulous process with 265 international experts—comprised of cheesemakers, chefs, buyers, and journalists—sampling a staggering 5,244 cheeses displayed on long tables adorned with white cloths. Polish cheesemaker Kuba Maziarczyk explained the judging steps: "Initially, we examine the visual appearance of the cheese; then, we assess the aroma, followed by flavor."
The judging panel would initially narrow down the selections before a final evaluation by a "super jury" representing 14 different countries. French judge Laurent Dubois highlighted that a great cheese should reflect its terroir and balance taste, aroma, and flavor. "Cheese is about harmony, which is why many excellent cheeses have a long-standing tradition," he noted.
Around 2,000 attendees gathered at Bern’s Festhalle exposition hall to witness the event. British judge Nigel Barden expressed his enthusiasm for the diverse range of cheeses, stating, "Every time you think your palate’s tired, a new cheese comes along to excite you. That’s the beauty of the World Cheese Awards."
The awards aim to celebrate and elevate small cheesemakers, reminding us of the essential connections between land, milk, animals, and the craft of cheesemaking. Next year’s World Cheese Awards will take place in Córdoba, Spain.
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
Oman’s businesses could leverage the recent victory of a Swiss Gruyere at the World Cheese Awards to explore opportunities in artisan cheese production, tapping into global gourmet food trends. This event highlights the growing interest in high-quality, locally sourced products, signaling a potential market for Omani cheeses that reflect the country’s unique terroir. Smart investors and entrepreneurs should consider investing in dairy innovations and marketing strategies that emphasize artisanal craftsmanship and sustainability to capture this emerging market.
