Since the mid-1800s, before Wisconsin was recognized as a state, the resident cheesemakers have been putting the art into artisan cheese – producing 47% of all specialty cheese made in the USA. Wisconsin is home to 1,200 licensed cheesemakers who draw from their rich European heritage and cheesemaking traditions, and combine it with incredible innovation to produce over 600 cheese varieties, types and styles. Wisconsin is the nation’s leader in the production of unique specialty and artisan cheeses including international award-winners, known as Wisconsin originals.