While Alpine winds sweep over the pastures beneath Mont Blanc, a cheese rooted in centuries of Savoyard tradition is crafted in small, family-run dairies. Tomme de Savoie, affectionately called “Tomme” by locals, is not merely cheese – it is a cultural icon. In the photos accompanying this article, you’ll see wheels wrapped in simple plastic, but beneath that surface lies a story full of soul and heritage.
“Our cheese reflects the land. We are not just producing food; we are preserving a way of life,” says Yann Pocha, heir to the Pocha(t) & Fils dairy, founded in 1919 at the foot of La Pointe Percée.
SAVOIE – WHERE THE MOUNTAINS SPEAK OF TRADITION
Savoie is a historical and geographical region in southeastern France, nestled in the heart of the Alps. Bordered by Switzerland and Italy, it is known for its dramatic landscapes, alpine lakes, and enduring pastoral heritage. This land has glaciers, ski slopes, and mountain pastures where traditions run deep. Iconic cheeses like Beaufort, Reblochon, Abondance, and of course Tomme de Savoie originate here.
Savoie is not just a place – it is a way of life. Each cheese made in this region carries the taste of altitude, climate, and centuries-old know-how.
Made from raw cow’s milk, Tomme de Savoie is aged for at least 30 days in natural cellars. Its gray rind, often veined with mold, reflects the natural ripening process. Inside, it is soft, elastic, and filled with the delicate aromas of fresh milk, hay, and nuts.
Once a humble food of mountain folk and artisans, today it graces gourmet tables across France, Switzerland, and beyond.
“We cannot compete in volume, but we can in quality and story,” Yann adds proudly. Tomme de Savoie is a quiet, resilient cheese that holds firm against time and trend.
A CHEESE WITH HISTORY IN ITS CRUST
Tomme de Savoie first appeared in written records in the 13th century, although it was likely made much earlier. It was born out of the need to use leftover milk after making butter or other cheeses – a cheese for the people, by the people. Small farms made it for their use or to trade among neighbors.
Though once a humble staple, today it stands tall as a representative of Alpine tradition. With its IGP certification and the dedication of families like Pocha(t) & Fils, every wheel carries the story of its land and people.
