Although Swiss Gruyere may be better known, the French variety is no less special. Created by local villagers in alpine dairies called "Fruiteries", its milk comes only from Montbeliarde and Tachete de L'est cows. Contributing to Comte's unique flavor, morning and evening milkings are mingled before the cheesemaking process. For transforming the milk into curds, the cheesemaker must only use natural ferments to receive the Comte seal. During aging, the curd is cooked, then pressed, with a natural brushed rind that comes from weekly care.