The big cheese: 10-year-old Tillamook product earns title of world's best cheddar

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — If Oregon’s numerous acclaimed restaurants hadn’t already put the state on the map, it’s new title as home of the world’s best cheddar has.

At the World Cheese Awards last month, the Tillamook County Creamery Association’s Maker’s Reserve 2014 Extra Sharp White Cheddar took home the trophy for “Best Cheddar Cheese.”

"Our Maker's Reserve Cheddars are truly special and reflect the all-important factor of time. Our aging process transforms the cheese into an unforgettable tasting experience," TCCA’s Director of Product Excellence Jill Allen said in a statement. "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."

But that’s not the only award the Oregon-based company secured at the prestigious awards ceremony held in Portugal. It also received bronze recognition for its Farmers' Collection Hickory Smoked Extra Sharp White Cheddar and Farmers' Collection English Style Sweet Cheddar.

According to TCCA, nearly 5,000 cheeses from about 1000 brands from 39 countries competed in the cutthroat World Cheese Awards. A panel of expert judges — including chefs, retailers and influencers — then conducted a blind taste test of all of the entries.

Tillamook’ was also awarded at the World Championship Cheese Contest earlier this year, for its sharp cheddar. It nabbed four of the top five slots in the sharp cheddar cheese category.

The company’s acclaimed cheeses are available at several grocery stores throughout Oregon.