From Chicago Kitchens to World Stage: V&V Supremo's Authentic Cheeses Win Top Global Honors

CHICAGO, IL – March 06, 2026 – In a resounding validation of heritage and craftsmanship, Chicago-based V&V Supremo Foods, Inc., a family-owned company steeped in authentic Mexican cheesemaking, has triumphed at the prestigious World Championship Cheese Contest. The company’s products were decorated with six medals, including two coveted “Best of Class” honors, distinguishing them from thousands of international competitors.

The biennial event, hosted by the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association, is widely considered the pinnacle of dairy competitions, a global arena where the world’s finest cheeses are scrutinized by an elite panel of technical experts. For a brand born from family recipes and a commitment to tradition, this recognition on the world stage marks a significant milestone, celebrating the authentic flavors of Mexico in the heart of America's dairy land.

A Legacy of Authenticity Recognized

Founded in 1964 by brothers-in-law Gilberto Villaseñor Sr. and Ignacio Villaseñor, V&V Supremo began as a humble neighborhood operation with a singular mission: to provide authentic, high-quality Mexican dairy products to their community. Over six decades, that mission has propelled the company from a local Chicago favorite to a nationally recognized brand, without sacrificing the core principles of its founders.

This latest achievement is a powerful testament to that enduring vision. The company’s Chihuahua® Brand Cheese and its shredded counterpart both earned the highest distinction of “Best of Class” in their respective categories. This dual victory for a single cheese style underscores its exceptional quality and consistency. The brand also secured a Silver Medal for its Chihuahua® Brand Cheese and a Bronze for the shredded version, showcasing a remarkable depth of quality across the product line that impressed judges.

“Our team takes tremendous pride in producing authentic cheeses that truly honor our Mexican heritage while meeting the highest standards of quality,” said Gilberto Villaseñor, Chief Visionary Officer of V&V Supremo, in a statement. “Receiving recognition at the World Championship Cheese Contest is a meaningful validation of the dedication and expertise of everyone at V&V Supremo.”

This sentiment reflects a journey of more than half a century, demonstrating that a focus on cultural heritage and uncompromising quality can resonate far beyond its original community, earning respect and accolades from the most discerning palates in the world.

The Anatomy of an Award-Winning Cheese

The judges at the World Championship Cheese Contest evaluate entries on a range of technical merits, including flavor, body, texture, and appearance. V&V Supremo’s success lies in mastering these elements while preserving the unique character of traditional Mexican cheeses.

The star of the show, Chihuahua® Brand Cheese, is a quintessential Mexican-style melting cheese. Celebrated for its rich, buttery flavor and exceptionally smooth melting properties, it is the cornerstone of classic dishes like quesadillas, queso fundido, and enchiladas. Its ability to achieve a perfect, creamy melt without separating is a hallmark of superior craftsmanship, a quality that clearly stood out to the judges. The fact that both the solid block and the convenient shredded format were awarded “Best of Class” speaks to the company’s ability to deliver excellence in different forms.

Equally impressive was the performance of the Sierra® Brand Cotija. Often lauded as the “Parmesan of Mexico,” Cotija is a firm, crumbly, and salty cheese with a bold, savory flavor. V&V Supremo’s Grated Sierra® Brand Cotija Cheese earned a Silver Medal, while the Sierra® Brand Cotija block took home a Bronze. This cheese is not meant for melting but for finishing, adding a burst of flavor and a distinct texture when crumbled over tacos, salads, grilled corn (elote), and soups. Its success at the competition highlights the company's versatility in mastering cheeses with vastly different profiles and applications.

A Pattern of Sustained Excellence

While the 2026 awards are a significant achievement, they are not an anomaly for V&V Supremo. This victory is the latest chapter in a long history of competitive success, underscoring a sustained commitment to excellence. A look back at past World Championship Cheese Contests reveals a consistent pattern of recognition for the Chicago-based company.

V&V Supremo has previously secured gold, silver, and bronze medals for its products in various Latin American cheese categories. For instance, its Chihuahua® Cheese won Gold in 2014, and its traditional, hand-stretched Oaxaca cheese earned the top prize in its class in both 2016 and 2018. This history of accolades demonstrates that the company’s quality is not a matter of chance but the result of decades of refined processes, time-honored recipes, and an unwavering dedication to their craft.

This consistent performance sets the brand apart in a competitive market. It signals to both consumers and culinary professionals that the V&V Supremo name is synonymous with benchmark quality in Mexican-style cheeses. Each award serves as another building block in a reputation carefully constructed over generations.

Redefining the American Dairy Landscape

The success of V&V Supremo on a global stage is reflective of a larger culinary movement. American palates are becoming more adventurous, and the demand for authentic, high-quality ethnic foods has surged. Traditional Mexican cheeses, once confined to specialty grocers or ethnic markets, are now claiming their rightful place as staples in mainstream American kitchens and restaurants.

This shift is pushing the boundaries of the domestic dairy industry. The recognition of cheeses like Chihuahua® and Cotija at a contest held in Wisconsin—America's dairyland—symbolizes a broadening definition of what constitutes award-winning American cheese. It shows that the industry is embracing a more diverse and flavorful landscape, where heritage and tradition from other cultures are celebrated as integral parts of the nation's culinary fabric.

V&V Supremo's awards are more than just a corporate win; they are a victory for cultural authenticity in the food space. They prove that by staying true to one's roots and focusing on quality, a family business can not only thrive for decades but also lead the way in shaping national and international food trends, bringing the vibrant and delicious world of Mexican cheese to an ever-growing audience.