Young Cheesemonger of the Year
Celebrating the brightest emerging talent in the cheese industry, recognising skill, knowledge and passion in professionals aged 30 and under.
What is Young Cheesemonger of the Year?
The Young Cheesemonger of the Year award celebrates rising stars in the world of cheese. It recognises individuals, aged 30 or under, who are passionate, knowledgeable, and committed to growing their careers within the cheese industry.
More than just a title, this award is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the next generation of cheese professionals, those who demonstrate technical skill, strong communication, and a deep respect for the craft. Finalists are tested on their cheesemongering expertise, from identification and cutting to tasting and customer service, under the watchful eyes of industry judges.
It’s a celebration of talent, a chance to learn, and a platform to launch the future leaders of our cheese community.
How Young Cheesemonger of the Year works
Each year, the Young Cheesemonger of the Year award opens the door for the next generation of cheese professionals to showcase their knowledge, passion, and flair. From the initial entry to the high-profile final at the World Cheese Awards, the competition is designed to challenge, inspire and celebrate the very best young talent in the industry.
Meet the finalists
This year’s entries showcase exceptional young cheesemongers from around the world, highlighting the industry’s bright future.
Meet the judges
The Young Cheesemonger of the Year judges represent a cross-section of the industry, from celebrated cheesemongers and affineurs to makers, buyers and educators. Each judge brings their own perspective, but all share a commitment to nurturing emerging talent and upholding the highest standards of cheesemongering.
How Young Cheesemonger of the Year is Judged
Finalists are put through their paces in a dynamic, multi-round competition designed to assess their technical ability, cheese knowledge, communication skills and flair for customer service. Judging takes place live at the World Cheese Awards, in front of an audience of industry professionals and cheese lovers alike.
Each contestant will compete in five rounds. Judges are looking for confidence, clarity, and above all, a deep passion for cheese. It’s not just about getting the answers right, it’s about showing your potential as a future leader in the industry.
The Finalists are invited to the stage to discuss the rationale behind their qualifying cheeseboards, which were submitted with their original application, including balance of styles, seasonality, and customer appeal.
Demonstrate precision and presentation by cutting to weight and wrapping cheese to professional retail standards.
Accurately identify a selection of cheeses by eye, nose and palate, including make class, milk type, and country of origin.
Present the perfect Peter’s Yard cracker pairing and accompaniment for a selected cheese, explaining your choice, using flavour descriptors and textural balance.
A fast-paced quiz, testing knowledge across the breadth of the cheese world, from affinage and make processes to heritage, regulations and more.
Thanks to our sponsors
We’re proud to partner with sponsors who share our passion for supporting the next generation of cheese professionals. Their generosity helps make Young Cheesemonger of the Year possible
And the winner is...
Young Cheesemonger of the Year 2025 Dates for Your Diary
Planning to enter? Make a note of these important dates. The 2025 competition will culminate at the prestigious World Cheese Awards in Bern, Switzerland, a unique opportunity for young cheesemongers to compete on an international stage.
21 September, 2025
3 October, 2025
13 November, 2025
Young Cheesemonger of the Year 2025 Updates
Latest news, views, announcements and insights from the awards
