Potato cheese croquettes are the most original version of this recipe.
Clues from recent cheese competitions show that you don’t need to travel far to discover exceptional flavors. The International Cheese and Dairy Awards 2021, held in Nantwich, United Kingdom, crowned a premium product from Mercadona with the gold prize. The standout entry, Old Sheep’s Cheese La Reserva, carried a price tag of just €3.69, proving that top-tier quality can come at an affordable cost.
La Reserva is crafted from raw sheep’s milk and is presented without pasteurization, a choice that some fans view as a hallmark of authentic, natural cheese. In addition to its robust flavor, the cheese contains about 39 grams of fat per 100 grams and only around 0.5 grams of sugar, making it a candidate for balanced diets when consumed in moderation. Its combination of traditional production and accessible pricing makes it appealing to a broad range of shoppers who seek value without compromising taste.
This particular gold prize at the International Cheese and Dairy Awards 2021 spotlights a product that resonates with consumers who favor natural milk cheeses produced outside the UK. The recognition comes from sheep producers who gave La Reserva an honorable mention for excellence in the sheep milk category, highlighting the strength of non-UK suppliers in international dairy contests. The award sits within a broader context of global cheese competition where regional specialties often win praise for their unique textures and aromas. Cheese and Dairy Awards 2021, Nantwich, United Kingdom.
Other Mercadona offerings also received accolades in the same event. The Reserva Tostado Viejo and Mezcla Curado were noted for achieving strong results in their respective categories, illustrating the retailer’s growing footprint in the premium cheese segment. The awards underscore how traditional processing methods and careful aging can elevate familiar varieties to international recognition, attracting tasters who value craft, history, and regional character.
In addition to the award landscape, the competition sparked interest in the broader category of potato cheese croquettes, described as the most original variation tied to this recipe. The event’s diverse lineup demonstrates how dairy producers blend flavor profiles and textures to appeal to contemporary palates, from aged raw milk cheeses to inventive savory bites that pair well with light beverages and seasonal menus. A glance at the awards catalog reveals ongoing attention to balance, origin, and sustainability as guiding themes for judges and producers alike.
Mercadona’s broader cheese portfolio also showcased notable entries such as the Reserva Tostado Viejo and Mezcla Curado, which achieved top placements in separate categories on the world stage. These recognitions reflect a combination of quality sourcing, aging mastery, and consistent product development that resonates with consumers seeking premium experiences at accessible prices. The award reflections emphasize the value of a well-curated selection that emphasizes provenance and traditional techniques while remaining mindful of modern preferences for texture, aroma, and value. Attribution: International Cheese and Dairy Awards 2021, Nantwich.