Academy of Cheese Fellow, Irene Clemente is passionate about making cheese education welcoming, accessible and engaging for everyone from curious beginners to industry professionals. Her experience combines formal education with practical learning across the United States and Europe. She completed a cheesemaking and distribution apprenticeship at Fromagerie Moreau in France, working with traditional AOP goat cheeses across the journey from milk reception and production through early affinage, preparation and distribution. She has also undertaken professional training and immersive learning with cheesemakers, affineurs and cheese specialists in France, Italy, Spain and the United States.

Irene has served as a judge at international cheese competitions in France and Germany. This combination of education, hands-on production experience and international judging gives her a well-rounded understanding of cheese from its creation and maturation to its evaluation and enjoyment.

As a Filipina American working in cheese education, Irene brings a distinctive cross-cultural perspective to her teaching. Her approachable style helps learners build knowledge, tasting skills and confidence while connecting them with the craftsmanship, traditions and stories behind cheese.