From the family-run dairies of the Western Cape to artisanal producers across the country, local cheese is proving it can compete with the best in the world by awards.
Local producers and medium-sized businesses turned passion into medals, showing that dedication, skill, and a love for craft can transform litres of milk into internationally acclaimed flavours during the 2025 World Cheese Awards in Switzerland.
A total record of 5 244 cheeses from 46 countries were entered and judged by 265 international experts, including affineurs, cheesemakers, and food specialists under strictly blind tasting conditions.
Despite intense competition, South African producers emerged among the top performers.
Several of these award-winning cheeses come from local producers who supply Woolworths, including Klein River, Dalewood Fromage, Fairview Cheese, and Lactalis South Africa. In total, 10 South African-made cheeses sold through Woolworths received awards, including one Super Gold.
Woolworths congratulated the cheesemakers, celebrating the wins as a testament to local craftsmanship.
“Ten South African-made cheeses from Woolworths won prizes at the World Cheese Awards in Bern, Switzerland, including one Super Gold. Huge congratulations to our local cheesemakers,” the retailer said.
Klein River Cheese delivered one of the strongest performances, earning 10 medals, including a super gold for its 24-month-aged Babylonstoren Parmesan. The Stanford-based family business also secured multiple gold, silver and bronze awards across its Parmesan, Gruberg and Gouda varieties.
Reflecting on the win, the Klein River team described the achievement as deeply affirming for small, rural producers.
“This is global recognition for the finest products made in South Africa. As a rural family business and small passionate team, we are going to celebrate with lots of cheese,” the team said.
Dalewood Fromage also stood out on the world stage, taking home a Super Gold for its Boland cheese and Gold for its Huguenot. The company’s Nellie Fischer was further recognised as Best Female Cheesemaker, highlighting the growing leadership role of women within the dairy industry.
“Recognition on the world stage confirms that our products are unique in every respect,” Dalewood noted, adding that being judged purely on merit by international experts reaffirmed the broad appeal of South African cheese.
Lancewood also received a Gold medal for its sweet chilli medium-fat cream cheese and a Bronze for its Mature Cheddar, while Fairview Cheese earned a Bronze for its Paarl Rock Brie. Lactalis South Africa collected three awards across its matured Gouda and President Cheddar ranges.
“This is a proud moment for our entire team,” Lactalis South Africa said. “It demonstrates the passion, craftsmanship and dedication that go into every wheel of cheese we produce.”
Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen praised the achievement, describing it as a testament to the craftsmanship and dedication underpinning the country’s dairy sector.
“Behind every medal is the work of countless farmers, cheesemakers and workers whose skills shape the cheeses enjoyed in South African households and beyond,” Steenhuisen said.
South Africa produces more than 82 000 metric tonnes of cheese annually, using over 800 million litres of milk. Although most production is consumed locally, dairy exports continue to grow. In 2024, the country exported approximately 56 000 tonnes of dairy products, with cheese accounting for about 16% of the total.
As a net exporter of cheese, Steenhuisen said the global recognition was more than symbolic.
“These achievements strengthen South Africa’s position as a competitive and credible producer on the international stage,” he said.
Azwi@vutivibusiness.co.za
