Cheesemaking Contest

When and where is the contest?

When

Judging is September 15, 2020
Deadline for entries is September 11, 2020

Where

Bongard's Creameries - Norwood, MN

How do I participate?

Any current member of the NCCIA can enter the cheesemaking contest. All entries must list the manufacture date, the name, and address of the individual entering the cheese. You can submit one entry per category.

Cheddar Block
Cheddar Blocks must be a minimum of 40 lbs and include the manufacture date.
Entry fee: none (considered a donation)

Barrel
Barrel entries must consist of 3 plugs of cheese taken at random with a barrel cheese trier. Plugs must be individually wrapped with aluminum foil (do not use plastic) and placed in a plastic bag.
Entry fee: $50

Miscellaneous
Miscellaneaous entries must be standard commercial size. Any type of cheese (except Cheddar) may be entered in this classification: Mozzarella, Colby, Brick, Blue, Monterey jack, Swiss, Brie, Camembert, etc.
Entry fee: none (considered a donation)

Important Dates

Entry Deadline: 9/11
Contest Judging: 9/15
Cheese Auction: 10/14
Contest Awards: 10/14

Entry Fees
Please make checks payable to: NCCIA
Send payment to:
NCCIA
8665 Summit Peak Way, #112
Ooltewah, TN 37363

Important Documents
cheesecontestidcard.pdf

How does judging work?

Judging occurs September 10th at Bongards’ Creameries in Norwood, MN. Professionally-trained judges grade all entries and provide you with an official ADSA scorecard that identifies the grade of and feedback for your product.

Judges select one Grand Champion, as well as 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners in each category.

Award-winning cheeses are put up for auction at the NCCIA Annual Conference on October 14, 2020. All remaining cheese entries (except barrel) become part of the cheese buffet served during the conference auction.

Awards

Contest winners are announced before September 30 and recognized during the banquet dinner at the NCCIA Annual Conference. NCCIA will award the Grand Champion with an engraved plaque. 1st place in each category will receive $40 cash from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.