Oregon’s reputation as a culinary hotspot just reached a new level. Known for its farm-to-table dining, award-winning wines, and exceptional craft breweries, the state has added another accolade to its impressive résumé: the home of the world’s best cheddar cheese. At the prestigious World Cheese Awards held last month in Portugal, the Tillamook County Creamery Association (TCCA) earned the top honor for their Maker’s Reserve 2014 Extra Sharp White Cheddar.
“Our Maker’s Reserve Cheddars are a testament to the power of time,” said Jill Allen, TCCA’s Director of Product Excellence, in a statement. “The aging process elevates the cheese, creating a truly unforgettable flavor. Having our 2014 Maker’s Reserve Extra Sharp White Cheddar recognized as the best in the world is an incredible achievement and reflects our unwavering commitment to producing exceptional dairy products.”
This wasn’t Tillamook’s only victory at the competition. Their Farmers’ Collection Hickory Smoked Extra Sharp White Cheddar and Farmers’ Collection English Style Sweet Cheddar both earned bronze medals, further solidifying Tillamook’s reputation as a global cheese powerhouse. Competing against nearly 5,000 cheeses from over 1,000 brands across 39 countries, Tillamook stood out, proving that their century-old craft is as strong as ever.
But what led Tillamook to this incredible achievement? Let’s take a deeper look into the rich history and legacy behind one of Oregon’s most beloved brands.
The Journey to Greatness: A Timeline of Tillamook’s History
1850s: Oregon’s Dairy Beginnings
The story of Tillamook begins with the fertile lands of Tillamook County, Oregon. In the mid-19th century, settlers discovered that the area’s mild climate and lush pastures were ideal for dairy farming. Small family-run farms started producing high-quality milk, laying the foundation for what would become a thriving dairy industry.
1909: The Formation of Tillamook County Creamery Association
By the early 20th century, local farmers realized that collaboration was the key to consistent quality and economic success. In 1909, several farmers joined forces to create the Tillamook County Creamery Association (TCCA), a cooperative dedicated to producing exceptional dairy products. This marked the beginning of Tillamook’s journey as a unified brand.
1918: Cheddar Becomes the Star
While TCCA produced various dairy products, it was cheddar cheese that truly set the cooperative apart. Using traditional cheese-making techniques passed down through generations, Tillamook cheddar quickly became renowned for its bold, tangy flavor and smooth texture.
1947: The Iconic Baby Loaf
Tillamook revolutionized how cheddar was packaged with the introduction of their iconic baby loaf—a smaller, rectangular block of cheese that made slicing and storing easier for customers. This innovative packaging helped bring Tillamook cheddar into homes across the United States.
2000s: A New Era of Excellence
As Tillamook expanded its offerings to include ice cream, yogurt, and other dairy products, the brand remained committed to its roots. The introduction of their Maker’s Reserve line showcased their dedication to craftsmanship, with each batch of cheese aged to perfection to bring out complex and nuanced flavors.
2020s: Global Recognition
Tillamook’s expertise hasn’t gone unnoticed. In recent years, their cheeses have consistently ranked among the best in the world. The Maker’s Reserve 2014 Extra Sharp White Cheddar is just the latest in a long line of accolades that highlight the brand’s exceptional quality.
What Makes Tillamook Cheddar the Best?
At the heart of Tillamook’s success is their unwavering commitment to quality. The Maker’s Reserve line, for instance, is crafted with precision and care, then aged for up to a decade. The 2014 vintage that won the “Best Cheddar Cheese” award was aged for 10 years, allowing it to develop a bold, sharp flavor with notes of toasted caramel and a perfectly crumbly texture.
Tillamook’s Farmers’ Collection also exemplifies their innovation and attention to detail. The hickory-smoked cheddar and English-style sweet cheddar offer unique flavor profiles that reflect the brand’s ability to balance tradition with creativity.
The World Cheese Awards: A Global Stage
The World Cheese Awards is one of the most prestigious cheese competitions in the world. This year, nearly 5,000 cheeses from 39 countries vied for top honors. Judges—including chefs, food writers, and retailers—conducted blind taste tests to evaluate flavor, texture, aroma, and presentation.
Tillamook’s dominance at this year’s competition follows a similar triumph earlier in 2024 at the World Championship Cheese Contest, where they claimed four of the top five spots in the sharp cheddar category. These consistent wins are a testament to the cooperative’s dedication to excellence.
Visiting the Tillamook Creamery: A Must-See for Cheese Lovers
For those eager to experience Tillamook’s magic firsthand, a visit to the Tillamook Creamery in Oregon is a must. The state-of-the-art visitor center offers an inside look at the cheese-making process, from milking the cows to aging the cheddar. Guests can sample a variety of products, enjoy freshly made ice cream, and take home their favorite Tillamook cheeses.
The creamery is more than just a tourist destination—it’s a celebration of Tillamook’s history, craftsmanship, and the community that supports it. Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the art of cheese-making and the dedication that goes into every bite.
Tillamook: A Symbol of Oregon’s Excellence
From its humble beginnings as a small cooperative to its recent triumphs on the global stage, Tillamook embodies the spirit of Oregon: innovative, community-driven, and committed to excellence. With its Maker’s Reserve line setting a new standard for cheddar, Tillamook isn’t just representing Oregon—it’s representing the very best in American cheese-making.
So, the next time you savor a slice of Tillamook cheddar, remember: you’re not just enjoying a piece of cheese—you’re tasting over a century of history, craftsmanship, and passion.
