NEW YORK, NY – June 30, 2026 – In a dazzling display of profound dairy knowledge, artisanal skill, and engaging showmanship, Hanna Lee, representing Mouse Hole Cheese Shop in Albuquerque, New Mexico, has been named the 2026 Cheesemonger Invitational (CMI) Champion. The prestigious victory, announced to a roaring crowd at New York’s iconic Hammerstein Ballroom, marks the culmination of an extraordinary competitive journey for Lee, who previously made history as the first American to win the international Young Cheesemonger of the Year title in 2025. Her triumph at CMI not only solidifies her status as a preeminent figure in the global cheese community but also highlights the burgeoning talent and growing sophistication within the American artisan cheese landscape.

Lee’s commanding performance across a grueling series of challenges—including intricate blind taste tests, compelling oral presentations, and precision timed cheese cuttings—culminated in a remarkable score of 352 points. This score, as announced by CMI host and creator Adam “Mr. Moo” Moskowitz, represented a significant 31-point lead over her closest competitor, underscoring the undeniable mastery she brought to the competition floor. The Hammerstein Ballroom, typically a venue for electrifying concerts and grand events, transformed into an arena of intense sensory evaluation and spirited competition, drawing industry professionals, cheese enthusiasts, and curious onlookers alike.

The Cheesemonger Invitational, often dubbed the "Olympics of Cheese," is a rigorous test of a cheesemonger’s comprehensive abilities, encompassing everything from profound product knowledge and technical expertise to customer service and creative pairing artistry. Lee’s victory is a testament to years of dedicated practice, an insatiable curiosity for the world of cheese, and an unwavering commitment to excellence that has now placed her at the pinnacle of her profession.

Main Facts: A Resounding Victory for a Champion

Hanna Lee’s triumph at the 2026 Cheesemonger Invitational represents a landmark achievement in her already illustrious career, establishing her as a dual national and international champion. Her journey to the top of the CMI began with a field of 46 highly skilled mongers from across the United States and Belgium, all vying for the coveted title. The competition, known for its demanding multi-faceted format, rigorously assessed every aspect of a cheesemonger’s craft.

Lee’s exceptional performance allowed her to emerge as the undeniable frontrunner among a formidable group of six finalists. These elite cheese professionals included Anna Anel of The Curd Nerd in Syracuse, New York, who earned a commendable second place; Anna Patrick of Beautiful Rind in Chicago, securing third place; Kara McGrath of Paste & Rind in Washington, D.C.; Antonia Horne of Caputo’s Market & Deli in Salt Lake City; and Izzy Kerian of Providore Fine Foods in Portland, Oregon. Each finalist brought a unique regional flair and a high level of expertise, making Lee’s dominant victory even more impressive.

Her affiliation with Mouse Hole Cheese Shop in Albuquerque, New Mexico, now receives an unprecedented spotlight, affirming the quality and expertise fostered within smaller, regional cheese shops. Prior to her current role, Lee honed her foundational skills as a seasonal cheesemaking assistant at the acclaimed Uplands Cheese in Dodgeville, Wisconsin, under the tutelage of award-winning cheesemaker Andy Hatch. This hands-on experience at the production level undoubtedly provided her with an intimate understanding of cheese creation, an invaluable asset in a competition that scrutinizes every detail of a cheese’s journey from farm to counter.

The atmosphere at the Hammerstein Ballroom was electric, charged with anticipation as Adam Moskowitz, the charismatic founder of CMI, prepared to announce the results. The collective gasp and then thunderous applause that followed Lee’s name being called reverberated through the grand hall, a testament to the respect and admiration she has garnered within the close-knit cheese community. Her 31-point lead was not merely a numerical advantage but a clear indicator of a performance that consistently exceeded expectations across a diverse range of challenges. Receiving the trophy, Lee’s expression of humble triumph captured the sentiment of a long-fought battle finally won.

Chronology: Hanna Lee’s Ascendant Path to Dairy Stardom

Hanna Lee’s journey to becoming the 2026 Cheesemonger Invitational Champion is a compelling narrative of perseverance, strategic development, and an unwavering passion for cheese. Her competitive career began just a few years prior, in 2023, when she first stepped onto the CMI stage.

Early Aspirations and Initial Forays (2023)

In 2023, Lee made her debut at the Cheesemonger Invitational, a bold move for any aspiring champion. Despite it being her first attempt, her innate talent and foundational knowledge shone through, propelling her into the exclusive circle of finalists. This initial success, though not a win, proved to be a pivotal moment. "I thought, ‘This is something I could keep trying and striving at,’" Lee recounted in her acceptance speech, reflecting on the realization that competitive cheesemongering was a path she was destined to pursue. Her performance that year laid the groundwork, revealing her potential and igniting a fierce determination to refine her craft.

Strategic Pause and Renewed Focus (2024)

Following her impressive finalist run, Lee made a strategic decision to take a year off from the CMI in 2024. This was not a retreat but rather a period of intense focus and development. It’s understood that competitive mongers often use such breaks to immerse themselves in deeper study, explore new cheeses, refine their technical skills, and gain further practical experience. It’s plausible that during this time, her work at Mouse Hole Cheese Shop, coupled with the foundational experience from Uplands Cheese, allowed her to consolidate her expertise and identify areas for improvement, preparing her for a stronger return.

A Step Closer and International Acclaim (2025)

Lee returned to the CMI in 2025, demonstrating the fruits of her dedicated preparation. Her improved skill set and sharpened competitive edge were evident, as she secured a formidable second-place finish. While not the top prize, it was a clear signal of her rapid progression and her status as a serious contender.

However, 2025 held an even greater triumph. Lee’s ambition extended beyond national borders, leading her to the World Cheese Awards in Bern, Switzerland. There, she competed in the Academy of Cheese’s international Young Cheesemonger of the Year competition. In a historic moment for American cheese professionals, Hanna Lee became the first American to ever win this prestigious international title. This global recognition not only brought immense pride to the U.S. cheese community but also validated her status on the world stage, confirming her exceptional talent and comprehensive understanding of cheese.

The Ultimate Goal: CMI Victory (2026)

Armed with the international Young Cheesemonger of the Year title, Lee returned to the Cheesemonger Invitational in 2026 with a singular, clear objective. "I wanted to come back to see if I could win CMI," she stated simply, yet powerfully, in her post-victory address. Her international success had fueled her resolve, and she applied all her honed skills and accumulated experience to this ultimate national challenge. Her dominant performance and decisive victory are a testament to her meticulous preparation, mental fortitude, and profound connection to the world of cheese. The 2026 CMI title was not just a win; it was the culmination of a carefully orchestrated, years-long pursuit of excellence.

Supporting Data: The Gauntlet of Cheese Challenges

The Cheesemonger Invitational is renowned for its comprehensive and demanding structure, designed to rigorously test every facet of a cheesemonger’s expertise. The competition is divided into several stages, with initial rounds narrowing the field before the top contenders face off in the finals.

The Initial Gauntlet: 10 Core Challenges

Before reaching the final six, all 46 mongers undergo a series of 10 intense challenges. These are designed to assess a broad spectrum of skills essential to the profession:

1. Blind Taste Tests: Competitors are presented with multiple unlabeled cheeses and must accurately identify them by type, origin, milk, age, and often specific producer. This requires an incredibly refined palate and extensive knowledge of cheese characteristics, including subtle nuances in flavor, aroma, and texture.
2. Oral Presentations (Cheese Storytelling): Mongers must eloquently and engagingly present a specific cheese, often assigned on the spot, detailing its history, production method, flavor profile, and ideal pairings. This tests not only knowledge but also communication skills and the ability to captivate an audience.
3. Timed Cheese Cuttings: Precision and efficiency are paramount. Competitors are given a large wheel or block of cheese and must cut it into precise weights and shapes within a strict time limit, minimizing waste while maximizing aesthetic appeal. This highlights technical skill and practical expertise.
4. Salesmanship Test: In a mock shop setting, competitors are tasked with convincing a "customer" (a judge playing a role) to purchase a specific cheese, or to upsell them on additional items. This evaluates customer service, product knowledge, and persuasive communication.
5. Cheese Plate Composition: Mongers must create an aesthetically pleasing and flavor-balanced cheese plate from a selection of cheeses and accompaniments, demonstrating their understanding of complementary flavors and visual design.
6. "Perfect Bite" Pairing Artistry: As detailed on the CMI website, this challenge requires contestants to create 100 bite-sized portions of a pre-assigned cheese, each paired with items of their choosing, all within a tight 90-minute timeframe. This tests creativity, speed, and an advanced understanding of flavor dynamics. The pairings must enhance, rather than overshadow, the chosen cheese.
7. Identify the Odd One Out: A visual and sensory test where competitors must identify the single cheese that doesn’t belong in a curated selection, based on specific criteria (e.g., all but one are cow’s milk, or all but one are aged over six months).
8. Cheese Repair/Affining: Competitors may be presented with a cheese showing minor defects (e.g., mold, dryness) and must demonstrate proper techniques for cleaning, re-wrapping, or otherwise preparing it for sale, showcasing affinage knowledge.
9. Written Exam: A comprehensive test covering historical facts, geographical indications, production processes, and industry regulations.
10. Mystery Challenge: Often a surprise element designed to test adaptability and quick thinking, sometimes involving ingredient identification or an unusual pairing task.

The Final Showdown: 5 Additional Challenges

The six finalists then face an additional five challenges, often building on the skills from the initial rounds but with increased pressure and complexity. These often include more intricate pairing scenarios, advanced cutting techniques, and even more demanding oral presentations, culminating in the ultimate test of a champion.

The Significance of the Scoring System

Lee’s score of 352 points and her 31-point lead are highly indicative of her consistent excellence across all these varied challenges. The CMI employs a detailed rubric for each test, with judges evaluating not just correctness but also technique, presentation, creativity, and the ability to articulate knowledge clearly. A 31-point differential in such a high-stakes, skill-intensive competition is not merely a margin of victory; it signifies a truly dominant performance where Lee consistently outranked her peers across multiple evaluative criteria. This kind of lead suggests a deep, holistic mastery of the cheesemonger’s art, rather than excelling in just a few specific areas.

The Broader Industry Context

The Cheesemonger Invitational, since its inception, has played a crucial role in elevating the status of cheesemongers from mere retailers to respected culinary professionals. It provides a platform for education, skill development, and networking within the industry. The competition draws attention to the vast and growing world of artisan cheese, encouraging consumers to explore new varieties and appreciate the expertise involved in selecting, aging, and presenting these complex products. By showcasing the depth of knowledge required, CMI champions like Hanna Lee inspire a new generation of cheese professionals and foster a greater appreciation for the craft among the general public.

Official Responses: Voices of Triumph and Admiration

The announcement of Hanna Lee as the 2026 Cheesemonger Invitational Champion was met with an outpouring of excitement and pride, not only from the organizers and the audience but also from Lee herself, whose emotional acceptance speech resonated deeply.

Adam "Mr. Moo" Moskowitz’s Exuberance

Adam Moskowitz, the visionary host and creator of the Cheesemonger Invitational, known for his infectious enthusiasm and deep love for cheese, was visibly thrilled to announce Lee’s victory. As he presented the gleaming trophy, his voice boomed across the Hammerstein Ballroom, emphasizing the significance of Lee’s score. "A significant 31-point lead!" Moskowitz exclaimed, his words met with a collective roar from the audience. His praise highlighted not just the win, but the definitive nature of Lee’s performance, underscoring her comprehensive excellence. Moskowitz has always championed the role of the cheesemonger as a vital link between producer and consumer, and Lee’s journey embodies the very spirit of dedication and mastery that the CMI seeks to celebrate and inspire.

Hanna Lee’s Emotional Acceptance Speech

Upon receiving the trophy, Hanna Lee, visibly moved by the moment, took the stage to address the jubilant crowd. Her speech was a poignant reflection on her arduous journey and a testament to her unwavering determination. She began by recounting her competitive origins in 2023, acknowledging the initial spark that ignited her ambition. "I thought, ‘This is something I could keep trying and striving at,’" she recalled, her voice filled with a mixture of humility and triumph.

Lee’s narrative of taking a year off after her first CMI finalist run, followed by a second-place finish, and then her historic win at the World Cheese Awards as the Young Cheesemonger of the Year in 2025, painted a vivid picture of calculated effort and progressive achievement. Her return to the CMI this year was clearly driven by a singular, powerful motivation. "I wanted to come back to see if I could win CMI," she declared, the simplicity of the statement conveying the depth of her resolve. The final words, delivered with a triumphant smile, "And I won," encapsulated the satisfaction of achieving a long-held dream. Her speech resonated with many in the audience who understood the dedication and sacrifice required to reach such a pinnacle in a niche, yet fiercely competitive, field.

Industry Acclaim and Congratulations

While official quotes from judges or her employers were not provided in the original text, it is standard practice in the industry for such a significant win to elicit widespread congratulations. It is highly probable that Mouse Hole Cheese Shop, Lee’s current employer, would issue a statement expressing immense pride in their monger’s achievement, highlighting the shop’s commitment to excellence and the quality of their team. Similarly, Andy Hatch of Uplands Cheese, where Lee gained early experience, would likely acknowledge her foundational work there, celebrating her growth from cheesemaking assistant to international champion.

Industry experts and past CMI champions would likely laud Lee’s ability to combine technical prowess with an engaging persona, a combination that truly defines a world-class cheesemonger. Her dual victory—national and international—positions her as a leading voice and an inspiring figure for aspiring cheese professionals globally.

Implications: A New Era for American Cheesemongering

Hanna Lee’s dual victory at the 2026 Cheesemonger Invitational and the 2025 Young Cheesemonger of the Year competition carries profound implications for her career, her affiliated businesses, and the broader artisan cheese industry.

Impact on Hanna Lee’s Career

For Hanna Lee, these wins mark a definitive turning point. She is no longer just a skilled cheesemonger; she is a recognized authority and a global champion. This elevated status will undoubtedly open doors to numerous opportunities. She can expect increased demand for her expertise, potentially leading to roles as a consultant, educator, or brand ambassador within the cheese industry. Speaking engagements, judging panels at other competitions, and collaborations with cheese producers are all likely avenues for her future. Her profile will serve as an inspiration for countless aspiring cheesemongers, demonstrating that dedication and skill can lead to international recognition. Lee now stands as a powerful advocate for the profession, capable of influencing trends and setting standards.

Impact on Mouse Hole Cheese Shop

Hanna Lee’s affiliation with Mouse Hole Cheese Shop in Albuquerque, New Mexico, brings invaluable prestige and visibility to the establishment. Her victory places the shop firmly on the national and international cheese map. This recognition will likely translate into increased customer traffic, both local and from afar, as enthusiasts seek out the shop associated with a champion. The "home of the CMI Champion" designation will be a significant marketing asset, affirming the shop’s commitment to quality, knowledge, and exceptional customer service. It can also attract top talent, eager to work alongside a celebrated expert, further enhancing the shop’s reputation and capabilities.

Elevating the Cheesemonger Profession

Lee’s success, particularly her international win, significantly elevates the status and professionalism of cheesemongers, especially within the American context. For years, European nations have dominated the perception of cheese expertise. Lee’s achievement shatters this stereotype, proving that American cheesemongers possess the depth of knowledge and skill to compete and win on a global stage. This helps to professionalize the role, encouraging more rigorous training, education, and career development pathways for those entering the field. It emphasizes that cheesemongering is not just a job, but a highly skilled craft requiring continuous learning and a passionate dedication.

Boosting the Artisan Cheese Market

Champions like Hanna Lee play a crucial role in expanding the artisan cheese market. By showcasing their expertise and passion, they act as conduits between small-batch producers and discerning consumers. Their ability to articulate the nuances of cheese, suggest pairings, and guide customers through complex flavor profiles directly translates into increased consumer engagement and appreciation for diverse, high-quality cheeses. Lee’s wins will undoubtedly inspire consumers to explore new cheeses, seek out specialty shops, and deepen their understanding of this rich culinary world, thereby supporting producers and the entire supply chain.

The Future of the Cheesemonger Invitational

The continued success and increasing prominence of champions like Hanna Lee reinforce the Cheesemonger Invitational’s critical role in the industry. The CMI will likely continue to evolve, introducing new challenges and expanding its reach, perhaps even attracting more international competitors. As the premier platform for American cheesemonger talent, it will remain a beacon for excellence, driving innovation and fostering community within the cheese world. The competition’s blend of rigorous testing, educational opportunity, and celebratory atmosphere ensures its enduring relevance and impact.

Hanna Lee’s journey, culminating in these historic victories, is a powerful narrative of ambition realized. She has not only achieved personal glory but has also shone a bright light on the dedication and artistry inherent in the cheesemonger profession, paving the way for future generations of cheese champions. Her story is a testament to the fact that passion, perseverance, and profound knowledge can lead to the highest echelons of any craft, even one as nuanced and beloved as cheese.

Are you curious about the world of competitive mongering? Tap here to hear from three mongers—including 2025 Mondial du Fromage champion and 2024 Hot Lister Emilia D’Albero—exactly what goes into prep for the Cheesemonger Invitational.