A lot of places may say they make the world’s best cheese, but at Rogue Creamery in Central Point, it’s official.
Rogue Creamery’s Rogue River Blue earned recognition as the world’s best at the 2019-20 World Cheese Awards in Bergamo, Italy, when a panel of more than 250 of the globe’s foremost cheese connoisseurs chose it as Grand Champion, a first for an American-made cheese.
“When we got that news from Italy, I don’t think any of us believed it,” David Gremmels recalls. He bought the long-time cheese company in Central Point with a partner in 2002. “Being the world’s best, that doesn’t happen overnight. It’s really about building upon each day.”
Rogue Creamery has a long history in Southern Oregon. It began as a co-op in the Rogue River Valley in 1933, before Tom Vella and a partner purchased it in 1935. Tom’s son, Ignazio Vella, took over in 1998.
The company has continued to expand its product line over the years. In addition to multiple varieties of its famous blue cheese, Rogue Creamery offers a selection of young and old cheddars, some featuring a variety of flavorful additions, including jalapeños, hops, rosemary, chocolate and aromatic lavender.
Rogue Creamery is committed to making premier cheeses while upholding the highest environmental standards. In 2013, it was certified as Oregon’s first Public Benefit Corporation, recognizing the company’s commitment to service and sustainability.
Rogue Creamery entered a partnership with Savencia Fromage & Dairy in France in 2018 to further the reach of its products in the U.S. and around the world.
David, company president, says the character of Rogue Creamery remains one with the valley and its local farms. “The flavor of Rogue is so distinctive. It’s a reflection of this place. It’s a reflection of our aging caves. And it’s a reflection of the dedication and talent of our team,” he says. “It truly reflects the passion and the hard work that this industry requires in creating phenomenally tasting cheese, every day.”
At Market of Choice, we’re pleased to say that we’ve expanded our Rogue Creamery offerings for customers to enjoy. Stop by and see what’s new!
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