Cello Specialty Cheese Crowned Champion at 2026 American Cheese Society Awards
Schuman Cheese, a revered fourth-generation cheesemaker, proudly announced a resounding triumph at the 2026 American Cheese Society (ACS) Competition, where its flagship brand, Cello, garnered multiple accolades. As one of the industry's most esteemed showcases, this year's event saw Cello claim nine awards across various categories, reiterating its dedication to exceptional quality and innovative cheesemaking practices.
Notable highlights from Cello's award-winning repertoire included:
- - HD Traditional Regional Italian Cheeses: 1st Place for Cello Asiago and 2nd Place for Cello Fontina.
- - KA Fresh Unripened Cheese with Flavor Added: 1st Place for Cello Maple Mascarpone and 2nd Place for Cello Vanilla Mascarpone.
- - KK Rubbed-Rind Cheese: 2nd Place for Cello Smoky Pepper Hand Rubbed Fontina, 3rd Place for Cello Black Pepper Roasted Garlic Rubbed Fontina, and another 3rd Place for Cello Tuscan Hand Rubbed Fontina.
- - DC Open Category: 2nd Place for Cello Monteau.
- - HA Grating Types: 2nd Place for Cello Aged Asiago.
Every piece of Cello cheese is a testament to traditional craftsmanship, quality, and innovation. Manufactured at Lake Country Dairy in Turtle Lake, Wisconsin, these cheeses are crafted with fresh milk sourced from three local family farms, ensuring optimal freshness and flavor. Under the skilled guidance of Master Cheesemaker Christophe Megevand, Cello produces beloved classics and remarkable flavored varieties that resonate with cheese aficionados worldwide.
This remarkable recognition comes shortly after Cello unveiled a modernized brand identity, enhancing its visibility and accessibility in specialty cheese aisles. The updated packaging and visual elements aim to celebrate the artisanal heritage while inviting consumers to explore the delightful world of high-quality cheeses. This brand refresh symbolizes Cello's growth, making it easier for lovers of fine cheese to discover and enjoy their products while maintaining the superior quality that has positioned Cello among industry leaders.
Keith Schuman, the Business Unit Lead at Lake Country Dairy, expressed pride over the accolades, stating, "These awards reflect the dedication and expertise that our team pours into every batch of Cello cheese. We are grateful for the recognition from the American Cheese Society and are committed to advancing the craft of specialty cheesemaking while upholding the values our family business has lived by for generations."
The recent honors further solidify Cello's stature as a leading name in the specialty cheese market. Each award enhances the brand's reputation and exemplifies Schuman Cheese's commitment to innovation, exceptional ingredients, and traditional techniques that inspire culinary professionals and consumers alike.
For more details about Schuman Cheese and its Cello brand offerings, visit
www.schumancheese.com and
www.cellocheese.com.
About Schuman Cheese
Founded in New York in 1945, Schuman Cheese has spent over four generations perfecting its cheesemaking craft. With a focus on integrity and excellence, the company has continuously built strong partnerships globally while setting the gold standard in premium cheese. Today, skilled cheesemakers at Lake Country Dairy create world-class cheeses, including being the leading importer of hard Italian cheeses in the United States. Their craftsmanship exemplifies a commitment to quality and values established by Arthur Schuman.
About Cello
Cello is a dominant force in the specialty cheese sector, producing a diverse range of cheeses from traditional favorites like Parmesan, Asiago, and Romano to unique hand-rubbed varieties such as Mascarpone and specialty cheese flights. As the only American cheesemaker crafting hard Italian cheese in traditional copper kettles, Cello stands out with its award-winning Copper Kettle Parmesan, reflecting its dedication to exquisite quality and time-honored practices.