#United States #Wisconsin #Henning Cheese #Cheesemaker #Kiel, Wisconsin

Henning Cheese Achieves Grand Master Title

In a significant recognition of quality and tradition, Henning Cheese has been awarded the coveted 2026 Grand Master Cheesemaker title at the Wisconsin State Fair's Dairy Products Contest. This honor, presented on August 13 during the Blue Ribbon Dairy Products Auction, was bestowed upon Joshua Henning, the fourth-generation cheesemaker and co-owner of Henning Cheese, for his extraordinary 18-month Traditional Waxed Cheddar. The cheese scored an impressive 99.175, outperforming over 500 entries submitted by various dairy manufacturers from across Wisconsin.

Founded in 1914 by Otto and Norma Henning, Henning Cheese has built a legacy that spans over a century, deeply rooted in family tradition and craftsmanship. The journey of this family business reflects the love and dedication poured into every product. With Joshua currently enrolled in the Wisconsin Master Cheesemaker Program, expected to graduate in 2027, the future seems bright for Henning Cheese.

Rebekah Henschel, co-owner and director of national sales, reflected on the significance of Joshua’s achievement and its relation to the family's rich history. “There is something incredibly special about seeing this recognition go to Joshua, knowing that it represents over 100 years of our family making cheese in Wisconsin,” she stated. The pride is palpable, especially given the stiff competition faced from equally talented cheesemakers.

Apart from the Grand Master title, Henning Cheese clinched several other awards at the contest, showcasing the team’s diverse skill set:

• - 1st Place: Unflavored Cheese Curd Class – Traditional Cheddar Cheese Curds
• - 2nd Place: Flavored Pepper Cheese Class – Mango Fire Cheddar
• - 3rd Place: Flavored Hard Cheese Class – Tomato Basil Cheddar
• - 3rd Place: Mild Cheddar Class – Mild Cheddar

The Blue Ribbon Dairy Products Auction, during which the awards were announced, also served as a key fundraising event for the Wisconsin State Fair Dairy Promotion Board. Impressively, Joshua Henning’s award-winning Traditional Waxed Cheddar was auctioned for an astonishing $550.00 per pound, further underscoring the cheese's renowned quality and desirability.

Henning Cheese operates on the belief that great cheese starts with great milk. The company sources its milk from local family dairy farms located within a 30-mile radius of its cheese factory, emphasizing a commitment to quality sourcing. This philosophy not only contributes to the flavor and quality of their cheeses but also supports local farmers and the community.

For those interested in exploring Henning's award-winning selection, additional information can be found at henningscheese.com. This award represents not just a personal triumph for Joshua Henning, but also a celebration of over a century of passion and expertise that continues to thrive in Wisconsin’s dairy landscape.

In a world where traditions can easily fade, Henning Cheese stands as a brilliant example of deep-rooted heritage meeting modern excellence in cheesemaking. Their continuous recognition at prestigious contests affirms their status as leaders within the competing lineup of Wisconsin dairies, ensuring that their story—and their cheeses—will be enjoyed for generations to come.