Vacherin Mont d’Or: The Seasonal Delight You Don’t Want to Miss

As the leaves begin to turn and a chill sets into the air, cheese lovers around the world know that a very special treat is back in season. From September to March, Vacherin Mont d’Or, one of the most exquisite seasonal cheeses, makes its return—and it’s an experience no gourmet should miss.

Vacherin Mont d’Or is not just any cheese. Made from high-quality raw cow’s milk during the cooler months, it is matured for 21 days to develop its signature character. The result is a cheese with a delicate rind, an almost runny consistency, and a rich, creamy flavour that lingers delightfully on the palate. Its production is limited to the months between August and March, making its availability truly special.

This cheese comes in its own spruce wood box, which serves both as packaging and as a baking vessel. The wood not only helps preserve its structure during aging but also imparts a subtle, earthy aroma that enhances the tasting experience. To enjoy Mont d’Or at its best, keep it in its original container in the least cold part of your refrigerator. When ready to serve, you can indulge in it cold, scooping the soft, silky paste straight from the box with a spoon.

However, many consider Mont d’Or even more luxurious when warmed. Simply place the entire box in the oven until the cheese becomes molten, then serve it with warm potatoes, crusty bread, or smoked sausages. The melted interior is rich, deeply savoury, and utterly comforting—a true winter pleasure. Some even add a splash of white wine and a clove of garlic before baking for an extra layer of depth.

Traditionally, Vacherin Mont d’Or is enjoyed at the end of a meal, much like a dessert cheese. But its versatility allows it to take centre stage, whether at an intimate dinner or a festive gathering. Its creamy, almost spoonable texture makes it an interactive and memorable dish, perfect for sharing with friends or loved ones.

Mont d’Or also shines when paired with the right wines. Both white and red wines from the Jura, Savoy, and Jurançon regions complement its flavours beautifully. The bright acidity of these wines cuts through the richness of the cheese, creating a perfectly balanced pairing. Whether enjoyed on a crisp autumn evening or a snowy winter night, Mont d’Or offers a comforting elegance that is only available for a limited time.

Make sure to enjoy this artisanal cheese while it’s in season. Once March passes, Mont d’Or disappears from shelves until next autumn. Now is the time to discover, or rediscover, what makes this cheese so special!

Pre-order here: https://thefrenchgrocer.com/product/france-mont-dor-vacherin-cheese-400g