Question 1

True or false: The iconic holes in Gruyère are caused by carbon dioxide bubbles from propionic acid bacteria.

Accepted Answer

False. Holes are typical of Emmental, not Gruyère. Gruyère is a firm, dense cheese with few or no eyes.

Question 2

True or false: Gruyère cheese has been produced in the Swiss region of Gruyères since the 12th century.

Accepted Answer

True. Historical records confirm Gruyère cheese-making in the canton of Fribourg dates to at least the 12th century.

Question 3

True or false: Authentic Gruyère must be aged for a minimum of 12 months to earn its AOP label.

Accepted Answer

False. The minimum aging for AOP Gruyère is only 5 months; longer aging is optional for stronger varieties.

Question 4

True or false: Gruyère AOP regulations require that the cows providing milk are fed only grass and hay, without silage.

Accepted Answer

True. Under Swiss AOP rules, cows must graze on natural meadows and receive only grass or hay; silage is prohibited to preserve milk quality.

Question 5

True or false: Gruyère is lactose-free because the aging process naturally breaks down all lactose.

Accepted Answer

False. Aged Gruyère contains trace lactose, often tolerated, but it's not completely lactose-free for sensitive individuals.

Question 6

True or false: During aging, Gruyère wheels are regularly brushed with salt brine to develop the rind.

Accepted Answer

True. This traditional process, called 'frottage,' involves rubbing the wheels with brine to encourage bacterial growth and flavor.

Question 7

True or false: Swiss law recognizes Gruyère cheese produced in the Franche-Comté region of France.

Accepted Answer

True. Under the 2001 Switzerland-EU agricultural agreement, Swiss law protects French Gruyère IGP, acknowledging its distinct production region.

Question 8

True or false: A single wheel of traditional Gruyère can weigh up to 45 kilograms (100 pounds).

Accepted Answer

False. According to AOP regulations, traditional Gruyère wheels must weigh between 25 and 40 kg (55–88 lb). A 45 kg wheel would not meet the standard.

Gruyère Trivia Questions