Comté
A firm French alpine cheese from the Jura mountains, made from raw cow's milk and aged from 4 months to over 2 years. Each wheel is graded before release.
| Category | Cheese |
|---|---|
| Maker / Origin | Jura, France |
| Storage | Wrap in wax paper or parchment, then loosely in plastic; store in the cheese drawer. |
| Shelf life | About 3 to 4 weeks once cut; unopened wedges keep for months. |
| Best uses | Fondue, gratins, gougères, soufflés, sandwiches, and cheese boards. |
| Substitutes | Gruyère, Emmental, or Beaufort-style alpine cheese. |
| Pairings | Jura white wines, walnuts, charcuterie, and crusty bread. |
| Last checked | October 18, 2026 |
About it
Comté wheels weigh up to about 90 pounds and are made in village dairies called fruitières. Graders score each wheel on taste and appearance; top wheels earn the green Comté Extra band. Flavor runs from milky and floral to deeply nutty.
Storing it
Rewrap after each use and keep cold. Freeze grated for up to 2 months for cooking if needed.
Using it
Comté melts into an even, silky fondue and gratin topping. Younger wheels suit cooking; older wheels are best eaten as they are, in slices.
Swaps & pairings
Gruyère is the nearest neighbor, a touch earthier. Emmental melts similarly with a milder flavor, and aged cheddar can stand in for boards.
More from this maker: Jura, France