Tea Fondada is an alpine-style cheese produced by Chascharia Val Müstair in Val Müstair, a high alpine valley in the canton of Graubünden, Switzerland. The name “Tea Fondada” refers to the valley floor, reflecting the cheese’s strong connection to local pastures and traditional mountain farming.
It is made from high-quality cow’s milk sourced from local farms, with production closely tied to seasonal grazing conditions. The cheese is crafted using traditional alpine methods, emphasizing slow processing and careful handling of the milk to preserve its natural character.
During maturation, Tea Fondada develops a firm yet supple texture and a well-structured paste. Aromatically, it expresses clean dairy notes combined with gentle herbal and grassy nuances that reflect the alpine terroir.
On the palate, the flavour is balanced and rounded, offering mild sweetness, subtle nuttiness, and a restrained savory depth without excessive sharpness. The finish is smooth and persistent, making it approachable while still expressive of place.
Tea Fondada is versatile as a table cheese and works well both on its own and in simple culinary applications. It represents a clear, authentic expression of Val Müstair’s cheesemaking tradition and its mountain environment.
Best cheeses from other producers
- Best in Switzerland
- Best in the World