Academy of Cheese Launches First US Training Courses with Fine Vintage
The Academy of Cheese has officially announced its expansion into North America, partnering with leading wine education provider Fine Vintage to deliver its first-ever US-based cheese certification courses. This landmark collaboration marks a significant milestone for professional cheese education in the United States.
- Rachel
- 2 months ago
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Academy of Cheese Expands into the United States
Academy of Cheese, the UK-based not-for-profit organisation dedicated to promoting cheese knowledge and careers in cheese, will host its first US course in New York City on Sunday 19 April.
Its inaugural North American training partner, Fine Vintage, widely regarded as the Harvard of wine schools, operates 20 locations across the USA and Canada. This partnership brings structured, certified cheese education to American professionals and enthusiasts for the very first time.
First Academy of Cheese Course in New York City
The debut Academy of Cheese Level One Certification will take place at the Hilton New York Fashion District and will be taught by British cheese writer, educator and presenter Patrick McGuigan.
This beginner-friendly professional certification is designed for:
- Cheese lovers
- Hospitality professionals
- Wine specialists
- Retail and food industry newcomers
- Anyone starting their journey toward becoming a Master of Cheese
The course represents the first formal step toward achieving the prestigious Master of Cheese Certification.
What the Level One Cheese Certification Includes
The full-day immersive training experience combines guided tasting with structured learning. Participants will:
- Taste 12 benchmark cheeses
- Explore six classic wine pairings
- Learn in an interactive classroom setting
- Receive a digital Delegate Pack
- Gain 12 months of access to the Academy’s Level One Learning Road and Cheese Library
- Access to sit the Level One online exam with instant results
This structured approach ensures that students build both practical tasting skills and theoretical knowledge.
Expansion Across Canada: Toronto, Calgary, Kelowna & Vancouver
Following the New York launch, Fine Vintage will also roll out the Level One course across four Canadian cities between April and June:
- Toronto
- Kelowna
- Calgary
- Vancouver
Courses will be delivered by Patrick McGuigan alongside Certified Cheesemaker Tracey Johnson (ACS CCP), further strengthening the Academy’s international footprint.
The Academy of Cheese now supports programmes in 18 countries, with students from 96 nations, underscoring its rapid global growth.
Industry Leaders Celebrate the North American Launch
Tracey Colley, founding director of the Academy of Cheese, describes the move as a “huge moment” for the organisation as it enters its 10th year, highlighting Fine Vintage as the ideal North American partner.
Meanwhile, James Cluer, Master of Wine and owner of Fine Vintage, emphasised the natural synergy between wine and cheese education, calling the partnership an exciting opportunity for food and wine enthusiasts across the region.
Momentum Builds Following International Success
The US expansion follows another milestone for American cheese professionals. Hanna Lee recently became the first American to win the Academy’s Young Cheesemonger of the Year competition.
Based at Uplands Cheese Company in Dodgeville, Wisconsin, she claimed the title at the finals held during the World Cheese Awards in Switzerland – signalling growing American engagement with global cheese excellence.
Course Pricing and Booking Information
Places on the Academy of Cheese Associate Level One Certification with Fine Vintage are priced at $599 per person.
Why This Launch Matters for US Cheese Professionals
- First certified cheese training programme available in the US
- Structured pathway to Master of Cheese
- Backed by internationally recognised educators
- Strong wine and cheese integration
- Expanding professional opportunities in the food and hospitality industries
- Earn up to 24 recognised education hours toward the 2,000 hours required for the Certified Cheese Professional® (CCP) Certification, with Level Two and Level Three certifications contributing more than 200 additional qualifying hours toward this leading cheese industry accreditation.
With cheese education gaining momentum globally, this North American launch represents a pivotal step in professionalising and elevating cheese expertise across the United States and Canada.
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