Central Point, Ore.—Rogue Creamery is the first American cheese company to be awarded an Innovation in Excellence award at the prestigious SIAL trade show in Paris. The Creamery has also become the first American artisan cheese company to be certified by the European Union and the first Raw Milk Cheese to be imported into the EU.

“Our cheese was very well received because of its uniqueness and our innovative flavors,” says David Gremmels, co-owner of Rogue Creamery. “We were hoping for a good reception but the overwhelmingly positive response was tremendously affirming.”

Oregon Blue, Smokey Blue, Oregonzola and Rogue River Blue were singled out in the blues category. Several flavored cheddars were recognized, including Rosemary, Chipotle, Lavender, Cumin and Rogue Chocolate Stout.

SIAL, held October 22-26 in Paris, is the world’s premier industry food show, attracting more than 135,000 trade professionals worldwide.

“The French said we were courageous to show our products in France, and were then taken by surprise when tasting our uniquely original raw milk cheeses,” says Gremmels. “To be given the nod in this exclusive region historically known for the finest cheese is a tremendous honor.”

Rogue Creamery cheeses will soon be found in cheese shops and white linen restaurants in France, UK, Spain, Greece, Norway, Denmark, Ukraine and Italy this holiday season.