In 2007, Elena Hovagimian was working for Donna Woolam, the Director of Agriculture at The Eastern States Exposition (The Big E). They thought it would be fun (!) to start a cheese competition at the fair. It was a daunting effort, but Elena began collecting all the information she could. She even went to the prestigious American Cheese Society Competition where John Greeley graciously showed
Home Cheese Making Competitions
It’s a wonderful idea and, yet, it seems to be the impossible dream. Why is it a great idea? Cheese making is basically a solitary pursuit and local contests are a great way for cheese makers to get to know each other. Contests provide a way for cheese makers to get feedback from judges (the kind of feedback they don’t get from family and friends).
Wine & Cider Competitions at The Big E, 2018
Behind the scenes at the judging In past years, I have volunteered at the cheese competition* at The Big E (Eastern States Exposition), but this was the first time I volunteered at the wine and cider competitions which were held at the same time. It was a totally different experience and every bit as fascinating. How is it possible for the judges to know as much