Best cheeses in the Fromage et Cime competition in Ovronnaz
Fromage et Cimes in Ovronnaz: a celebration of taste
Introducing the Fromage et Cime event
Located in the heart of Switzerland's Valais region, Ovronnaz is renowned not only for its breathtaking scenery, but also as the annual host of the prestigious “Fromage et Cime” competition. The aim of this competition is to honor the best alpine raclette cheese, an emblematic delicacy of the Valais region. Every year, and especially for this 2024 edition, a mix of cheese experts and enlightened amateurs come together, driven by a shared passion, to award the coveted title of “Fromage & Cime d'Or”.
The authenticity of Valais cheese
Origins and preparation of the Fromage & Cime contest
Contestants are cheesemakers from all over the Valais. Each cheese, unique in flavor, is the fruit of a traditional process. They come from cows fed on pastures at altitudes of 900 to 1900 meters. These raclette cheeses reflect the richness of mountain herbs. They are prepared in copper vats and matured on spruce boards, respecting ancestral methods.
The judging process
Blind tasting
With meticulous attention to detail, the Cheese & Cime jury examines every detail. First, they present 18 cheeses anonymously. Then, for each cheese, they assign it a simple number, facilitating a blind tasting. Next, the jurors evaluate three series of six raclette cheeses. Finally, they select the best six. To top it all off, the tasting takes place early in the morning, guaranteeing a fresh, unbiased palate.
Impact and repercussions of the competition
Promoting Valais heritage
The “Fromage et Cime” competition in Ovronnaz goes far beyond a simple tasting. It represents an invaluable opportunity to highlight the Valais' gastronomic heritage. By highlighting the work of cheese-makers and the exceptional quality of their products, this event reinforces the region's reputation as a culinary destination not to be missed. What's more, thanks to this recognition, the winning mountain pastures often see an increase in demand for their cheeses, boosting the local economy.
An experience for cheese lovers
A not-to-be-missed event
Every year, many cheese lovers and tourists converge on Ovronnaz for the “Fromage et Cime” experience. Not only is this celebration a treat for the taste buds, it also offers an immersion in Valaisan culture and traditions. Between tastings, workshops and meetings with producers, participants leave with memorable taste memories and a renewed appreciation for the art of mountain cheese-making.
Results of the “Fromage et Cime” 2024 competition
The long-awaited announcement of the winners of this year's “Fromage et Cimes” 2024 competition in Ovronnaz has finally arrived!
- Gold medal: L'alpage de Savolaire, from Sophie and Damien Granger (Morgins, Val d'Illiez).
- Silver medal : L'alpage de Flore, run by Jeremy Daven (Conthey).
- Bronze medal: Patrice Défago, alpage de Chaupalin (Les Crosets).
- Special awards: Alpage de l'Au-de-Morge (Saint-Gingolph) and Alpage de Balavaux (Isérables).
The 2024 “Ovronnaz Fromage et Cime” competition for the best alpine raclette cheese takes place in Ovronnaz, Switzerland.
