#USA #Sacramento #Marieke Gouda #Cheese Awards #American Cheese Society

Marieke Gouda's Historic Night at ACS Awards

The annual American Cheese Society (ACS) Conference in Sacramento, California, recently emerged as a momentous occasion for Marieke Gouda. Held from July 23 to 26, the event concluded with the announcement of award winners, and Marieke Gouda did not disappoint. The company secured nine prestigious awards at this year's competition, which elevated its total lifetime awards to an astonishing 301.

Master Cheesemaker Marieke Penterman expressed immense pride in the achievements, stating, "We are incredibly honored to bring home nine awards and a top 10 finish from the American Cheese Society. These honors reflect the passion, grit, and heart behind every wheel we craft." This splendid recognition not only underscores the commitment of Marieke's team from the farm to the creamery but also highlights the role of cheese mongers who help share their story with the world.

Among the company's awards were three Gold, three Silver, and three Bronze accolades, including a remarkable Top 10 placement for their Aged Gouda. The breakdown of award categories reveals the company's versatility in cheese production:

• - Gold: Smoked Cumin, Belegen (4-6 months), Aged (9-12 months) - Top 10 Cheese
• - Silver: Golden Gouda Parmesan, Smoked, Original Gouda Spread
• - Bronze: Honey Clover Super (18-24 months), Mature (6-9 months)

The American Cheese Society Judging and Competition is a rigorous evaluation of cheeses made in the United States, conducted annually. The winners are recognized during the ACS Annual Conference, celebrating innovation and excellence within the cheese industry. The competition serves as a platform to highlight American cheesemakers, showcasing not only their cheese-making skills but also their adherence to food safety standards.

Marieke Gouda, based in Thorp, Wisconsin, is renowned for producing premium, all-natural cheeses. Their artisanal approach combines expert craftsmanship with the finest milk sourced from their dairy farm. Every aspect of production is meticulously overseen by Marieke, ensuring that the traditional Dutch cheesemaking methods they uphold result in authentic flavors and exceptional quality.

Founded under the ethos of passion and precision, Marieke Gouda emphasizes the importance of each step in the cheese-making process—from caring for their cows to the aging of their cheeses. As Marieke stated, it's a collective effort that makes their success possible.

The American Cheese Society, boasting a membership of over 2,300 cheese enthusiasts and professionals, is dedicated to enhancing the appreciation and understanding of artisan cheeses across the Americas. By providing educational opportunities and resources, the ACS plays a vital role in promoting the highest standards of cheesemaking, focusing on safety and sustainability.

As Marieke Gouda continues to grow and gain recognition, their dedication to quality and tradition remains at the forefront. With 301 awards to their name, the future looks bright for this exceptional cheesemaker, which will surely inspire further excellence in the cheese industry.