Wisconsin cheesemakers won big at the American Cheese Society's 2018 competition in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The state's cheese and dairy producers captured a total of 94 awards, 39 more than second-place California. It marks the 14th straight year Wisconsin has taken home more awards than any other state.

Wisconsin companies took home 27 first-place ribbons, 30 second-place and 37 third-place. California was second with 53 overall awards, while Vermont was third with 34.

"Wisconsin cheesemakers and dairy producers are incredibly passionate and dedicated to perfecting their craft," says Suzanne Fanning, vice president of marketing communications at Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin. "We could not be more excited that their hard work has once again been recognized by the American Cheese Society. Beyond honoring their great achievements, this year's competitions was a true celebration of the outstanding cheesemaking community that thrives in Wisconsin."

The competition included 1,954 entries from 259 companies representing 35 U.S. states, five Canadian provinces, Mexico, Colombia and Brazil.