Willi Schmid
In Toggenburg, Switzerland, amidst green mountain meadows and traditional farms, Willi Schmid works daily on cheeses renowned worldwide for their quality and character. From his small cheese dairy in the historic town of Lichtensteig, he creates artisanal cheeses that reflect the flavors of their surroundings.
From a farming background
Willi grew up as the son of a farming family. Although his brothers continued the family business, he chose the profession of cheesemaker. What began as a practical choice grew into a lifelong passion. From an early age, he became fascinated by the transformation of milk into cheese and by the influence that animals, seasons, and landscape have on flavor.
To cheesemaker
In his cheese dairy, Willi works exclusively with high-quality raw milk from a small number of local farmers. Cows, goats, sheep, and even water buffaloes provide the milk for his creations. Every morning, he tastes and assesses the fresh milk before deciding which cheese to make that day. To him, no milk is the same, and it is precisely these natural differences that make every cheese unique.
To cheese artist
Over the years, Willi has developed an impressive range of award-winning cheeses, including Mühlistein, Jersey Blue, and many other exceptional creations. His cheeses are served in top restaurants around the world and are praised by chefs and cheese lovers for their distinctive flavor and authenticity. Yet his philosophy remains simple: exceptional cheese is created only when man, animal, and nature are in complete balance.
Today, Willi Schmid is regarded as one of Switzerland's most inspiring cheesemakers. With respect for tradition, a deep understanding of nature, and a continuous pursuit of perfection, he demonstrates that great cheese is not created in a factory, but in the pastures, with the farmers, and in the hands of a craftsman who masters his trade down to the smallest detail.