Which country has the best cheese in the world?

The Big Cheese: Why the Netherlands Might Just Be the Best Cheese Country in the World

Declaring any single nation the definitive “best” when it comes to cheese is a fool’s errand, guaranteed to spark heated debate and launch a thousand cheese boards. Taste, after all, is subjective. However, when considering a combination of factors, from consumption and import habits to production diversity and sheer cheesy passion, one country consistently rises to the top: the Netherlands.

While the French and Italians might boast longer histories of cheesemaking and the Swiss have their iconic holes, the Netherlands takes a different approach. They’ve embraced a global perspective, becoming world champions of cheese appreciation and, arguably, achieving a unique mastery of the craft. Their secret? It’s not just about making cheese, it’s about loving cheese.

The numbers tell a compelling story. Despite a relatively small population of around 17 million, the Dutch import a staggering amount of cheese – approximately $14 worth per person annually, translating to a whopping 3.1kg each. This makes them the undisputed global leaders in cheese imports, a testament to their insatiable appetite for all things cheesy. They’re not just content with Gouda and Edam, although they certainly excel at those. They’re actively seeking out and savoring cheeses from every corner of the globe, refining their palates and cultivating a deep understanding of the vast cheese landscape.

This adventurous spirit translates into their own cheesemaking practices. While honoring their traditional cheeses, Dutch producers are also experimenting with new techniques and flavors, incorporating international influences and pushing the boundaries of what Dutch cheese can be. This willingness to innovate, coupled with their deep-rooted cheese culture, results in a vibrant and dynamic cheese scene that’s constantly evolving.

Furthermore, the Netherlands serves as a vital hub for the global cheese trade. Their expertise in cheese handling, storage, and distribution is unparalleled, ensuring that cheeses from around the world reach consumers in optimal condition. This central role in the international cheese market further solidifies their position as a major player in the world of cheese.

So, while declaring the Netherlands the absolute “best” might be contentious, it’s undeniable that their passion for cheese, combined with their import dominance, diverse production, and central role in the global cheese trade, places them in a league of their own. They’re not just making cheese; they’re curating a global cheese experience, one delicious bite at a time. And that, perhaps, is what makes them the true champions of cheese.