Introducing the Academy of Cheese in America
The Academy of Cheese, a renowned UK-based not-for-profit organization dedicated to cheese education, is making its debut in the United States. In partnership with Fine Vintage, a prestigious wine school known as the Harvard of wine education, the Academy is set to launch its first training courses in North America. This exciting initiative marks a significant expansion for the Academy, which aims to elevate cheese knowledge and appreciation across the globe.
What to Expect from the Course
The inaugural Level One course will take place in New York City on Sunday, April 19, at the Hilton New York Fashion District. Led by esteemed British cheese writer and educator Patrick McGuigan, this beginner-friendly certification is designed for both cheese enthusiasts and industry newcomers. Participants will embark on a full-day guided tasting experience, exploring 12 benchmark cheeses paired with six classic wines, all in a relaxed classroom setting.
Upon completion, students will receive a digital Academy of Cheese Delegate Pack, granting them access to the Level One Learning Road and Cheese Library for a full year. This ongoing study resource is invaluable for anyone looking to deepen their cheese knowledge. Additionally, students can take an online exam at their convenience, which lasts just 30 minutes and provides instant results.
Expanding Cheese Education Across North America
Fine Vintage will not only bring the Level One course to the US but will also roll it out to four Canadian locations: Toronto, Kelowna, Calgary, and Vancouver. These sessions, presented by Patrick McGuigan and Certified Cheesemaker Tracey Johnson ACS CCP, will take place between April and June. This partnership is crucial for the Academy of Cheese as it seeks to increase its international reach, currently supporting programs in 18 countries with students from 96 nations.
Industry Insights and Expert Commentary
Tracey Colley, founding director of the Academy of Cheese, remarked, “This is a huge moment for the Academy of Cheese, as we continue our work to promote cheese education and careers in cheese across the world. Now in our 10th year, we have found the perfect training partner for North America in Fine Vintage. This is the first time that food lovers in America can sign up for a certified training program in cheese – ushering in a new wave of cheese knowledge set to sweep across the States!”
James Cluer, Master of Wine and owner of Fine Vintage, added, “Cheese and wine is the ultimate pairing. Learning about them is a life-long passion. I’m so thrilled that Fine Vintage can bring the courses from the Academy of Cheese, the gold standard in cheese education, to foodies and wine lovers of NYC and beyond.”
Celebrating Achievements in Cheese Education
This landmark announcement comes shortly after Hanna Lee became the first American to win the Academy’s Young Cheesemonger of the Year competition, showcasing the growing recognition of cheese expertise in the US. Based at Uplands Cheese Company in Dodgeville, Wisconsin, Hanna earned this prestigious title after a competitive three-hour final held at the World Cheese Awards in Switzerland.
Enroll in the Academy of Cheese Level One Course
For those interested in enhancing their cheese knowledge, places on the Academy of Cheese Associate Level One Certification courses with Fine Vintage are available for $599 per person. Full details, including booking information, can be found on the Academy of Cheese website.
Elevate Your Cheese Knowledge
The Academy of Cheese’s partnership with Fine Vintage represents a pivotal development in cheese education in North America. By participating in these courses, restaurant owners, foodies, and hospitality leaders can significantly enhance their understanding of cheese, ultimately benefiting their businesses. As more cheese professionals emerge, the culinary landscape will continue to evolve, enriching the dining experience for everyone.
Stay tuned for more updates and insights in the world of cheese education. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this transformative journey at the Academy of Cheese!
Written by Michael Politz, Author of Guide to Restaurant Success: The Proven Process for Starting Any Restaurant Business From Scratch to Success (ISBN: 978-1-119-66896-1), Founder of Food & Beverage Magazine, the leading trade magazine and resource in the industry. Designer of the Bluetooth logo and recognized in Entrepreneur Magazine’s “Top 40 Under 40” for founding American Wholesale Floral. Politz is also the Co-Founder of the Proof Awards and the CPG Awards and a partner in numerous consumer brands across the food and beverage sector.
