Mont-Jura

1. History

Mont d'Or is a cheese with ancient origins, with the first written mentions dating back to the 18th century[1][4]. Its history was born from the winter constraints of the Jura: during winter, milk production decreased and no longer allowed the production of large wheels of Comté[1][7]. Cheesemakers from Haut-Doubs then developed a smaller cheese requiring less milk, which would be consumed young[1]. This cheese quickly conquered palates and its reputation rose to the court of Louis XV[1][4].

2. Physical characteristics

Mont d'Or is a soft cheese with a washed rind[5], characterized by its creamy, smooth and slightly runny texture[7]. It is presented in a wooden case, manually bound with a freshly cut spruce strap from the Jura forests[1]. This strap ensures the cheese's structure while imparting subtle resinous aromas[1]. The cheese takes its name from the highest mountain in Doubs, which reaches 1,461 meters[4].

3. Taste profile

Mont d'Or is appreciated for the fineness and smoothness of its paste[4]. Its taste profile is enriched by subtle resinous aromas imparted by the spruce strap that surrounds it[1]. It is a convivial cheese, particularly appreciated during winter meals[7]. Its creamy and runny texture makes it a refined tasting cheese.

4. Production zone and period

Mont d'Or is produced in about ten dairies located between Pontarlier, Morteau and Métabief, in Haut-Doubs[1]. Production is reserved for the cold season, when cows descend into the stables after spending summer in pastures[4]. Raw milk is transformed directly on site: curdled, molded, then manually bound[1]. Manufacturing uses raw milk from Montbéliarde or Simmental French cows, fed on grass and hay[1].

5. Certification

Mont d'Or obtained the Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) in 1981, then the Appellation d'Origine Protégée (AOP) in 1996[1]. These labels guarantee its manufacture in a specific geographic area of the Jura, using raw milk from specific cows, fed according to defined criteria[1]. Certification ensures compliance with artisanal know-how passed down through generations[1].