The competition, held at the Casa del Vino de El Sauzal, showcased the high standard of Tenerife's primary sector. An expert jury thoroughly evaluated the entries, distributing awards that reflect the diversity and innovation in the island's cheese production.
“"This competition not only rewards a product, but also the daily effort of our farming families. This year's list demonstrates that the Island is a benchmark in sustainability and quality, where tradition coexists with avant-garde proposals."
Among the winners, Quesería Montesdeoca, located in Adeje, received the Grand Gold Medal for its aged goat's milk cheese with gofio coating, recognized as the best in the contest. In the metropolitan area, Quesería La Florida from La Laguna dominated the fresh cheese category, taking home the prestigious Pedro Molina Ramos Award and excelling in both fresh raw and smoked milk varieties.
The contest also celebrated innovation, with Quesería Granja Ara from Santa Úrsula winning gold in the innovative cheeses category for “El Minero,” a raw goat's milk cheese with an ash coating. Other recognitions include Quesería El Isorano from Guía de Isora with three golds in pasteurized milk, and Quesería Aborigen from Arafo for its organic production.
Beyond taste, presentation was also key, and the Best Image Award went to the Qosos Majuca brand from Arico. These results solidify the map of artisanal cheese dairies in Tenerife, which, according to the Cabildo, are essential for sustaining the rural economy and landscape of the island, offering consumers an updated guide to the best local products.
