Clark County was officially recognized by the Commonwealth of Kentucky as the birthplace of beer cheese in 2013.
A Festival as Flavorful as Its History!
Since 2009, the Beer Cheese Festival has been celebrating this bold and beloved local specialty, growing into one of Winchester’s favorite traditions! Every year, thousands of eager festival-goers flood Beer Cheese Boulevard, indulging in delicious beer cheese from across the country while exploring the charm of historic Downtown Winchester.
But it’s more than just a great time—festival proceeds go right back into revitalizing Downtown Winchester, making every bite count!
👉 Check out our past champions here!
The Spicy History of Beer Cheese
The origins of beer cheese are as bold as its flavor! Legend has it that in the late 1930s, Chef Joe Allman crafted this irresistible spread for his cousin Johnnie, owner of the Driftwood Inn on the banks of the Kentucky River. The idea? A zesty, salty snack to keep customers reaching for their beer.
But when Johnnie lost his restaurant in the early 1960s, his beer cheese recipes vanished with it—sparking a decades-long debate over who holds the title for the “original” beer cheese.
Originally served with sliced veggies, beer cheese has evolved into a fan-favorite spread, now enjoyed with pretzels, crudités, burgers, fries, and more!
And it’s not just a Kentucky thing anymore—beer cheese has taken the nation by storm. From South Carolina to California, restaurants have put their own spin on this regional favorite. Even the Queen of England couldn’t resist, reportedly flying home from Lexington with several tubs of beer cheese in tow!
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time taster, one thing is for sure—beer cheese is here to stay!
