Caputo Cheese Wins at The 2026 World Championship Cheese Contest

MADISON, WI – Caputo Cheese, a leading manufacturer of award-winning Fresh Mozzarella and Hard Italian cheeses, was just awarded at The World Championship Cheese Contest, placing First, ‘Best Of Class’, with their Bocconcini and Third Place with their Ovolini in the Fresh Mozzarella category.

Bocconcini, which means “little mouthfuls” in Italian, is a Fresh Mozzarella which is stretched and kneaded into small, bite-sized balls. Bocconcini are soft and chewy in texture and rich and creamy in flavor. These delicious Mozzarella bites lend themselves to many recipes like salads, pasta, and more.

Ovolini, from the Italian word for “egg-sized” are larger format mozzarella balls which are known as the ‘workhorse’ of the fresh cheese. Delicate in texture, with a subtly firm exterior and softer interior, Ovolini capture more butterfat resulting in richness in every bite. These provide versatility in the kitchen, especially for caprese salads, or tearing for traditional Margherita pizza.

Natale Caputo, company President and leader of Caputo Cheese states, “I am so incredibly proud of the Caputo team! The World Championship Cheese Contest gives us the opportunity to showcase our passion for our cheese alongside the best in the world. It is truly an honor to place in a global competition where everyone involved appreciates the art of cheese.”

The 2026 World Championship Cheese Contest was hosted by The Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association on March 3-5 in Madison, Wisconsin. This has been the premiere cheese contest in the world since 1957, and Caputo Cheese has medaled in every competition since 2016, including Gold in 2020, 2018, and 2024 (Burrata and Fresh Mozzarella). They are thrilled to have placed amongst peers and other industry giants, showcasing their true Italian cheese making skills that have been passed down through generations.

About Caputo Cheese

Based out of Melrose Park, Illinois, Caputo Cheese has been rooted in a simple belief: great cheese has the power to elevate every meal. Since opening in 1978, Caputo’s values have been built on a tradition of quality, craftsmanship, and dependable service. Today, we partner with distributors, manufacturers, and retailers across the country to deliver premium Italian cheeses and tailored solutions that meet evolving market demands.