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July 27, 2026Sources cited
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Fontina

Fontina is a semihard cow’s-milk cheese that originated in Italy, specifically the Valle d’Aosta region in the northwestern Alps.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Fontina is a semihard cow’s-milk cheese that originated in Italy, specifically the Valle d’Aosta region in the northwestern Alps. The authentic Italian version is protected as a PDO cheese and is known for a mild, nutty flavour and good melting properties. Similar cheeses made outside the region are also sold under the Fontina name, but they are typically milder and less traditional.

Origin and history

Fontina is associated with the Valle d’Aosta region of northern Italy. Historical references to the cheese date back to the 13th century, and it appears in later written sources from the 15th century.

Characteristics

Fontina is a semihard cheese made from cow’s milk, with a natural rind and a pale yellow interior containing small holes. Its flavour is generally mild, nutty, and savoury, though it becomes stronger with age.

Production and protection

Traditional Fontina is made in the Aosta Valley and is protected as a PDO cheese within the European system. Similar cheeses made elsewhere may use the name fontina, but they are not considered the authentic Italian product.

Culinary use

Fontina is eaten as a table cheese and is also valued for melting. It is commonly used in pasta dishes, sandwiches, soups, and on pizza.

Key facts

  • Authentic Fontina comes from the Valle d’Aosta region of Italy and is protected as a PDO cheese.
  • It is traditionally made from cow’s milk and has a pale interior with small holes.
  • Its flavour is typically mild, nutty, and savoury, with stronger versions developing with age.
  • Fontina is widely used for melting because it stays creamy when heated.
  • Cheeses made outside Italy, including in Sweden, Denmark, and the United States, are often labelled fontina but differ from the original.
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Canadian context

Fontina is sold and used in Canada as an Italian-style cheese, and Canadian shoppers may encounter both authentic imported Fontina and domestic or North American versions labelled fontina.

Frequently asked questions

What is Fontina?
Fontina is a cow’s-milk cheese from Italy, usually semihard, with a mild nutty flavour and good melting properties.
Where did Fontina originate?
Fontina originated in the Valle d’Aosta region of northern Italy.
Is Fontina protected by a geographical designation?
Yes. Authentic Italian Fontina is protected as a PDO cheese.
What does Fontina taste like?
It is typically mild, nutty, and savoury, with a richer and more pungent flavour as it ages.
How is Fontina used in cooking?
It is used as a table cheese and is popular for melting in pasta, soups, sandwiches, and pizza.
Are all cheeses called Fontina the same?
No. Similar cheeses are produced outside Italy, but they often differ in flavour and texture from authentic Fontina from Valle d’Aosta.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/Fontina
    Supports: Origin in Valle d’Aosta, cheese type, flavour, appearance, and culinary uses.
  2. Fontina D.O.P. — https://www.fontina-dop.it/en/fontina-pdo/the-story/
    Supports: Historical references to Fontina in 1270 and 1477.
  3. Wisconsin Cheese — https://www.wisconsincheese.com/about-cheese/fontina
    Supports: Cheese style, texture, flavour, aging, and melting characteristics.
  4. The Spruce Eats — https://www.thespruceeats.com/what-is-fontina-cheese-5183657
    Supports: Traditional production from cow’s milk, origin, and international production.