Abondance is a semi-hard, fragrant, raw-milk cheese made in the Haute-Savoie department of France. Its name comes from a small commune also called Abondance. A round of Abondance weighs approximately 10 kg and its aroma is similar to that of Beaufort, also from France. Abondance is made exclusively from milk produced by the Abondance breed of cattle. In 1998, 873 tonnes were produced (+16.4% since 1996), 34% from local farms.
The name "Abondance" actually refers to two different cheeses granted an Appellation d'origine contrôlée or AOC:
Abondance, Savoie, AOC 1990
Abondance de Savoie, Savoie, AOC 1990
Since the 15th century, the Abondance region has been well known for its cheese produced by monks from the Sainte Marie d'Abondance Monastery, located near the Swiss border.
Abondance cheese can be either artisanal or farm-made; it is now made exclusively in the area of Abondance in Chablais, Haute-Savoie.
The aging period for Abondance is only 90 days; it is best enjoyed from July through November.
This cheese has been made by the Fruitières du Massif du Parmelan since 1896.
The aging period for Abondance de Savoie is only 16 weeks; and for better results sometime leave it for 1 year for maturity; it is best enjoyed from July through December.
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