Queijo de Ovelha Amanteigado, a sheep’s milk cheese produced by the small family-run Quinta do Pomar factory in Sualeira, Portugal, has won the top prize at the World Cheese Awards 2024 in Viseu. Selected from nearly 5,000 cheese samples worldwide, this unique cheese stands out for its creamy texture, delicate herbaceous notes, and the use of a vegetarian enzyme extracted from thistles.
Queijo de Ovelha Amanteigado, a unique sheep’s milk cheese from the small, family-run Quinta do Pomar factory in the town of Sualeira, Portugal, has been crowned the best cheese in the world at the prestigious World Cheese Awards. The competition, held in Viseu, saw nearly 5,000 cheese samples from 14 countries, with Quinta do Pomar’s exceptional cheese standing out for its creamy texture and delicate herbaceous flavors.
Produced by just ten artisans, Queijo de Ovelha Amanteigado is renowned for its use of a natural vegetarian enzyme extracted from thistles, which gives the cheese its distinct qualities. Traditionally served without a crust, the cheese’s creamy interior is eaten with a spoon, making it a truly unique delicacy.
The World Cheese Awards, judged on criteria such as appearance, aroma, taste, and texture, saw participation from manufacturers across several countries, including Brazil, the United States, Norway, Italy, Germany, and Spain. The competition aims to celebrate the best in cheese production globally, with blind tastings ensuring impartiality in the judging process.
John Farrand, organizer of the event, emphasized the fairness of the competition, which has seen recent victories from host countries like Spain and Norway in the past years. The recognition of Queijo de Ovelha Amanteigado underscores the growing international appreciation for Portuguese cheeses and their exceptional quality.
