Best Norwegian Blue Cheese Types
Norway probably isn't the first country that comes to mind when we think about great cheese. However, that might change as Norwegian producer Tingvollost won the main prize and the title of the world's best cheese at the 2016 World Cheese Awards in San Sebastian, Spain for its blue cheese called Kraftkar.
More than a hundred judges assessed over 3,000 cheeses according to a number of qualities such as color, texture, and flavor before they came to the conclusion that Kraftkar is undoubtedly the champion. This blue cheese is produced from cow's milk from the family farm located in the village of Torjulvågen.
Norzola is Norway's answer to Gorgonzola. This Norwegian blue cheese is produced by TINE (a cooperative owned by milk producers). The cheese is made from pasteurized cow's milk, cream, salt, and rennet. Underneath its natural rind, the texture is buttery, smooth, and supple.
The aromas are intense, while the flavors are rich and full-bodied. There's also a blue-green marbling running throughout the body. The cheese was launched in 1974.
Gamalost is a traditional cheese made from skimmed cow's milk. The cheese has a mold-ripened rind; its texture is dense, granular, and chewy, the aromas pungent, while the flavor is sharp. It's also rich in protein and has a fat content of only 0.5 to 1.0%.
The cheese is traditionally aged from 1 to 6 months. In order to make it, an acid is added to skim milk, causing it to sour. The fermented solids are then pressed into molds to create the circular shape. Later on, the cheese is hand-rubbed with mold and left to age.
Best Norwegian Blue Cheese Producers
Den Sorte Gryte is a cheese producer based in Norway, known for specializing in organic cheeses made from goat milk. They implement traditional methods in their cheese production, focusing on sustainability and the preservation of natural flavors.
Their products include a variety of cheeses, such as aged, soft, and flavored types, catering to diverse culinary preferences.
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2023
World Cheese Awards - Gold
2023
BEST Den Sorte Gryte Cheeses
Gangstad Gårdsysteri is a farm-based dairy producer located in Inderøy, Norway. It produces a variety of artisan cheeses using milk sourced from its own farm and local suppliers. The dairy is known for emphasizing sustainable practices in both production and sourcing.
Gangstad Gårdsysteri’s products, including blue cheese, brie, and other specialty cheeses, have received awards at Norwegian and international cheese competitions.
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2023
World Cheese Awards - Gold
2022, 2021
BEST Gangstad Gårdsysteri Cheeses
Best Norwegian Blue Cheeses
Kraftkar, a product made by Tingvollost, is a distinctive Norwegian blue cheese that has received international acclaim for its exceptional quality. Aged for 7 months, this robust cheese is known for its rich and creamy texture with blue veins running throughout, offering a balanced combination of sweetness and sharpness in its flavors.
Kraftkar has garnered substantial praise, notably winning the title of "World's Best Cheese" at the World Cheese Awards in 2016. This accolade highlights its superior craftsmanship and the meticulous aging process that enhances its unique, flavorful profile.
AWARDS
Concours International de Lyon - Gold
2025
World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2024, 2023
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2023
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Gold
2023
Britannia Blå is a blue cheese produced by Gangstad Gårdsysteri, a renowned Norwegian farm dairy. This cheese is known for its rich flavor and creamy texture, which make it particularly popular among cheese aficionados. Britannia Blå is typically aged to develop its distinctive blue veining and robust taste.
The cheese pairs well with a variety of wines and is often enjoyed in gourmet culinary settings.
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Gold
2022
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Gold
2024
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