Sartori Cognac BellaVitano® Named 'Best USA Cheese' and 3rd in the World at 2011 World Cheese Awards

BIRMINGHAM, England, Nov. 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Sartori is proud to announce today that Sartori Limited Edition Cognac BellaVitano was named "Best USA Cheese," received a Super Gold Medal, and finished Third In The World overall in a stiff  2011 competition of over 2,500 entries at the World Cheese Awards in Birmingham, UK.  Sartori also took home an additional 5 gold medals and a bronze. The World Cheese Awards is one of the most prestigious cheese competitions, featuring entries from over 30 countries.

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Cognac BellaVitano, brainchild of Sartori Master Cheesemakers, is a unique delicacy that is made in extremely limited quantities each year.  It features the sweet, fruity, and tangy base flavors of BellaVitano Gold, paired with the delectable oaky, smoky and vanilla caramel flavors that emanate from soaking the cheese in a premium cognac.  

The 2011 holiday release of Cognac BellaVitano is underway. Produced in 20 pound wheels, Cognac BellaVitano will be sold through high end specialty cheese retailers.  A small quantity will also be available for purchase on the company's website at www.sartoricheese.com.

In support of local families in need during the holiday season, Sartori is currently auctioning 2 full 20 pound Cognac wheels on eBay, with 100% of the proceeds being donated to area food banks.

In addition to the top accolades received by Cognac BellaVitano, the company took gold with four other cheese types.  Dolcina® Gorgonzola, Limited Edition Caprimenthe® and Sartori Reserve Extra Aged Fontina were awarded gold medals, along with the new Canella™ BellaVitano.  Cinnamon BellaVitano took a Super Gold Medal and finished in the top 16 overall.  SarVecchio® Parmesan, recent winner at the Global Cheese Awards was presented a bronze medal.

Jeff Schwager, Sartori President attended the competition.  "We were advised that our overall 3rd place out of over 2,500 entries was the highest achievement ever recorded at this competition for a cheese from the United States. Being awarded 'Best in the USA', and third best in the world, among a number of other gold medals is truly an honor beyond all words. These awards recognize all of our Team Members and our Patron Farmers for their efforts and commitment every day to making the 'Best Cheese in the World.'"

About Sartori

Sartori has been producing artisan and premium cheese for seven decades for Specialty, Retail, Ingredient, Restaurant and Food Service markets.  Based in Plymouth, Wisconsin, Sartori has an impressive array of award winning cheese noted for innovative approaches and consistent top quality across their entire line.  For more information, please visit www.sartoricheese.com.

SOURCE Sartori