The 2026 Wisconsin Grand Master Cheesemaker Joshua Henning of Henning Cheese Kiel, who earned the state’s top honor for his 18-month Traditional Waxed Cheddar.
The 2026 Grand Master Cheesemaker award was announced Aug. 13 during the Blue Ribbon Dairy Products Auction. The award follows the Wisconsin State Fair Dairy Products Contest, where dairy manufacturers from across Wisconsin submitted over 500 entries spanning more than 50 classes of cheese, butter, yogurt, milk and custard. Henning’s 18-month Traditional Waxed Cheddar earned a score of 99.175.
The company was founded in 1914 by Otto and Norma Henning. Today, the family’s fourth generation, including Joshua, continues the family business. Joshua is in the Wisconsin Master Cheesemaker Program and is expected to graduate in 2027.
“There is something incredibly special about seeing this recognition go to Joshua, knowing that it represents over 100 years of our family making cheese in Wisconsin,” said Rebekah Henschel, co-owner and director of national sales at Henning Cheese. “To earn the Grand Master Cheesemaker honor in our home state, in a competition filled with so many talented cheesemakers, is an incredible source of pride for our family and our team.”
The company also took home awards in other categories, including:
- First Place: Unflavored Cheese Curd Class – Traditional Cheddar Cheese Curds
- Second Place: Flavored Pepper Cheese Class – Mango Fire Cheddar
- Third Place: Flavored Hard Cheese Class – Tomato Basil Cheddar
- Third Place: Mild Cheddar Class – Mild Cheddar
The Blue Ribbon Dairy Products Auction serves as a fundraiser for the Wisconsin State Fair Dairy Promotion Board. The winning 18-month Traditional Waxed Cheddar sold at auction for a jaw-dropping $550 per pound.
For more information about Henning’s award-winning cheeses, visit henningscheese.com.
