Ziller Cheese
Ziller cheese is an award-winning American Swiss-style cheese produced by Guggisberg Cheese in Charm, Ohio (in the heart of Amish country). It’s a pasteurized cow’s milk cheese that’s often described as the “perfect in-between” — blending the robust, nutty character of traditional Premium Swiss (like Emmentaler) with the milder, creamier, sweeter profile of Baby Swiss.Key characteristics: Semi-hard texture with those classic small-to-medium holes (eyes), smooth and creamy mouthfeel that melts in your mouth, naturally lactose-free, savory yet balanced flavor with a sweet finish. It’s milder than full Swiss but more flavorful than standard Baby Swiss.
Production: Made using traditional Swiss cheesemaking methods at Guggisberg, the creators of the original Baby Swiss (since 1950). They emphasize fresh local milk for quality.
Awards: It’s a multiple-time champion!Gold medal and top spot in the Baby Swiss class at the 2025 United States Championship Cheese Contest.
Also won first place in Emmental-style or Baby Swiss categories at events like the American Cheese Society (ACS) in 2023 and others.
Serving tips: Excellent for snacking, sandwiches, melting (great on burgers or in fondue-style dishes), or on a cheese board. Pairs beautifully with wines like Riesling, Pinot Noir, Cabernet, or beers like Weiss/Weißbier, plus Port or Sherry.
Availability: Sold in wedges or blocks at grocery stores (e.g., Giant Eagle), online via Instacart, or directly from Guggisberg — often around $8–10 for an 8 oz piece.
This fits right in with the artisan American Swiss-style cheeses we’ve been discussing (like Zwitser from Rockhill Creamery), but Ziller is more mainstream award-winning and widely praised for its balance and creaminess. It’s not from Switzerland (despite the style and name possibly nodding to alpine regions), but a proud Ohio-made take on the classic.
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