On this week's episode of Cutting the Curd, Anne Saxelby and Sophie Slesinger are in the studio talking about the Cheesemonger Invitational. First, Anne and Sophie talk with Adam Smith of Cowgirl Creamery in Washington, D.C. Adam was this year's Cheesemonger Invitational champion, and he discusses the rigors of the cheese competition. Hear about the different facets of the contest, including everything from a "plate the slate" test to a blind tasting. Later, Adam Moskowitz, founder of the Cheesemonger Invitational, joins Anne and Sophie in the studio. Tune in to hear how the contest has grown, what are the aims of the competition, and Adam's hopes for the invitational in the future. Tune in to hear how your favorite cheesemonger scored in the competition! This program has been brought to you by Heritage Meat Shop.

"The first year- it was about the party. The second year- it was about the monger. And the third year- it was about the community, and I hope the community aspect continues to grow and prosper." -- Adam Moskowitz on Cutting the Curd

Ken Skovron is the owner of Darien Cheese and Fine Foods, based in Darien Connecticut. One of first original cheese stores opened 36 years ago, Darien Cheese and Fine Foods focuses their selection on the heart and soul of cheese making; the artisan cheese maker. In addition to cheese, the shop also offers fine oils and vinegars, chutney, mustards, pasta, olives, teas, oven breads, and much more. Tune in to learn more about the shop, as well as the art of running your own cheese business from an established veteran. This program was sponsored by Academie Opus Caseus

"I'm not a textbook person, I'm a hands on person . You're not a great cheese maker/bread maker without getting involved with your hands." [6:00]

"You gotta love the product and be willing to do the work." [8:00]

"I didn't get on the counter for a full year, there's alot of behind the scenes work, you need to know how to present it to the customer, know your "lingo" kind of things." [10:00]

"I think the people that are successful [in this industry] have a passion about cheese." [10:30]

--Ken Skovron on Cutting the Curd

This week on Cutting the Curd Anne and Sophie get a sneak peak of the 2011 Cheesemonger Invitational when they are joined by cheesemonger Adam Moskowitz and Brooke of Fromaggio Essex. Tune in for details and a min cheese description competition between Brooke and Anne! This episode is sponsored by Cain Vineyard and Winery.