The World Cheese Awards 2025, held in Bern, brought two notable moments for the Romanian cheese industry: a new gold medal for Brânza de Horezu and the participation of Andreea Popa in the international judging panel. The event brought together 5,244 samples from 46 countries, evaluated by 265 judges seated at 110 tables, each assessing approximately 45–47 cheeses. It is one of the competitions that set global standards in this field, and Romania's presence in this context carries significance for both producers and consumers.

Brânza de Horezu, matured for over 12 months and made from sheep’s milk, won yet another gold medal, continuing a pattern of consistent results in international competitions. The fact that this product manages to maintain its level from year to year shows that traditional techniques can generate quality recognized in contexts where thousands of samples from all over the world are evaluated. For producers in Vâlcea County, the award represents the confirmation of a long-term effort; for the general public, it is a signal that local cheeses can truly compete with products from countries with longstanding traditions.

Andreea Popa’s participation as a judge adds a complementary dimension. Her role at the World Cheese Awards was not only that of a specialist in a competition, but also that of a representative of a generation of professionals working to raise the level of cheese education in Romania. Her training through the Academy of Cheese and exposure to the way international judging is structured represent an advantage for the local market, where standards and professional language are still developing.

Brânza de Horezu is also included in the Academy of Cheese’s Cheese Library, alongside more than 300 international cheeses. Romania is represented in this resource with two products: Brânza de Horezu and brânza de burduf. For the general public, this means access to well-structured information about how the cheese is produced, what its sensory profile is, and what differentiates it. For the HoReCa sector, retail, and journalists, it is a useful reference source, especially in a market where clarity of information is essential.

These results can become a starting point for a more organized approach to the sector. The award obtained and the involvement of a Romanian judge show that there is capacity, knowledge, and potential. The coming years could bring the consolidation of a professional community working together to grow the local cheese market—from production to education, communication, and external promotion.

Thus, 2025 marks a moment in which Romanian cheeses were seen, evaluated, and appreciated in a strong international context, and this can generate real confidence for those who produce, sell, or simply love good cheese.

Congratulations to the producers and to judge Andreea Popa.