A Swiss Gruyère AOP has claimed the title of the world’s best cheese at the 2025 World Cheese Awards, held this year in Bern, Switzerland. The annual event, considered the most prestigious competition in the dairy world, brought together more than 5,000 cheeses from 45 countries.
The champion cheese, aged for 18 months, was produced at the Vorderfultigen dairy in canton Bern by cheesemaker Pius Hitz. Its victory came after an intensive judging process conducted by 250 experts from five continents, who evaluated cheeses displayed across more than 100 tables.
The competition’s final round included 14 outstanding cheeses from various categories.
Gruyère AOP ultimately impressed judges with its balanced texture, rich aroma and depth of flavour, reflecting centuries of Swiss cheesemaking tradition.
In a statement, the Gruyère Interprofessional Association praised the result, calling it “an exceptional distinction” for a product that has been part of Swiss heritage for more than nine centuries.
The association highlighted that Gruyère’s success showcases craftsmanship passed down through generations and the importance of preserving artisanal skills.
This year’s event marked the first time the World Cheese Awards were hosted in Switzerland, offering an international platform to celebrate its renowned dairy industry.
Organisers noted that the competition has been held annually since 1988 and continues to grow in global relevance.
The win also reinforces the value of the protected designation of origin (AOP) label, which guarantees quality, traceability and adherence to traditional production methods. Swiss officials emphasised that such certifications help safeguard iconic products amid increasing global competition.
Gruyère AOP’s triumph comes amid recent developments concerning its international trademark protection. In 2024, Swiss authorities decided not to pursue further global defence of the Gruyère name after several legal challenges abroad.
Despite this, the cheese’s performance in Bern demonstrates its enduring status as a benchmark of quality. Producers say the award will help raise awareness of the importance of maintaining stringent standards in dairy production.
As the 2025 edition concluded, organisers announced that next year’s World Cheese Awards will take place in Córdoba, Spain. Swiss participants expressed hope that the country’s cheeses will continue to shine on the world stage.
For now, the spotlight remains firmly on the winning Gruyère AOP—an emblem of Swiss excellence and a symbol of the nation’s deep-rooted dairy heritage.