La Maison du Comté
About This Museum
Forget everything you think you know about cheese museums; La Maison du Comté isn't a static display of artifacts, but a vibrant, sensory journey into the soul of France's most iconic cheese. Nestled in the heart of Poligny, the unofficial capital of Comté, this place immerses you in the 'fruitière'—the local cooperative where it all begins. You don't just see the process, you practically smell the alpine hay and hear the bells of the Montbéliarde cows. It’s a passionate tribute to a centuries-old tradition that’s still very much alive.
Collection Highlights
The real stars are the giant copper vats and ancient wooden presses used by generations of cheesemakers. My favorite part was the 'cellar of aromas,' where you can sniff your way through wheels aging on spruce shelves, learning to identify the nutty, buttery, and fruity notes that define a perfect Comté. They even have a fascinating display on the 'clos,' the final metal seal that tells you exactly which dairy your cheese came from.
Visitor Information
You absolutely must time your visit to end with a tasting at their little counter—trust me, the complex flavor of a 24-month-old Comté after learning its story is a revelation. It's a compact museum, perfect for a 90-minute deep dive, and it’s wise to check their website for cheesemaking demonstration days.
Architecture & Building
Housed in a charming, traditional Jura stone building with rustic wooden beams and shutters, it feels less like an institution and more like stepping directly into a working 'fruitière' from another era.
Contact & Location
Address: Maison du Comté, 1, Rue de la Maison du Comté, En Boutasse, Poligny, Dole, Jura, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, France métropolitaine, 39800, France
Phone: +33 3 84 37 78 40
Website: Visit Website
