Gulmarg: The Star
Leading the pack with a Super Gold medal was 'Gulmarg,' a creation from Eleftheria in Mumbai, spearheaded by Mausam Narang. This cheese is a sophisticated
take on the classic French brie, enhanced with a higher butterfat content that results in an exceptionally rich and soft texture. Its flavor profile is characterized by subtle earthy and mushroom-like undertones, culminating in a clean, pleasant lactic finish. This award signifies a remarkable achievement for Indian cheesemaking, positioning a locally produced brie among the world's elite dairy products and demonstrating a mastery of French cheesemaking techniques adapted with an Indian sensibility.
Yak Churpi: Himalayan Gold
Securing a Gold medal, 'Yak Churpi (Soft)' represents a significant cultural triumph for producer Thenlay Nurboo of Nordic Farm, based in Leh, Ladakh. This cheese is a deeply traditional Himalayan delicacy, traditionally crafted from yak or cow milk. Its appeal lies in its mild, creamy consistency and a delightfully subtle chewiness. For centuries, Churpi has been a vital food source and cultural staple for communities inhabiting the high-altitude regions of Ladakh. Its recognition on a global stage brings well-deserved international attention to this ancient and cherished artisanal craft, celebrating the unique ingredients and methods of the Himalayas.
Brunost: Caramel Delight
Another Gold medal was awarded to 'Brunost,' also from Eleftheria, Mumbai, and Mausam Narang. This cheese offers a fascinating interpretation of the Norwegian-style Brunost, which is essentially a whey cheese. Its distinct character comes from a slow caramelization process applied to the whey, yielding a texture akin to fudge and a flavor profile that evokes rich notes of sweet salted caramel and toffee. The fact that a single producer from Mumbai earned both a Super Gold and a Gold medal underscores the high regard and serious consideration that India's emerging artisan cheese industry now commands on the international stage.
Kaali Miri: Spicy Twist
Completing the quartet of accolades, 'Kaali Miri' earned a Silver medal and stands out as perhaps the most distinctively Indian of the four award-winners. Inspired by the Swiss Belper Knolle, this aged cheese ball is infused with garlic and Himalayan pink salt, then generously coated in cracked black pepper from Kerala. The result is a cheese that is both creamier and more potent in flavor than its European counterpart. This innovative creation by Mausam Narang of Eleftheria ingeniously melds a classic European format with the bold, unmistakable tastes of Indian spices, showcasing a progressive approach to cheesemaking.
