If France is known for its wines, it is equally celebrated for its cheeses. With over 1,200 varieties produced across the country, French cheese represents an extraordinary diversity of flavour, texture, and tradition. From the creamy richness of Brie to the pungent strength of Roquefort, every cheese tells the story of its region, its people, and its landscape.
A Nation of Cheese Lovers
Cheese in France is not just food; it is part of the cultural fabric. It appears on tables daily, often as a separate course between the main dish and dessert. This ritual reflects the respect given to cheese as more than just an accompaniment — it is an experience in itself.
The Families of French Cheese
French cheeses can be grouped into several families:
• Soft cheeses with bloomy rinds, like Camembert and Brie, with their creamy interiors and delicate flavours.
• Blue cheeses, such as Roquefort, aged in caves and veined with tangy blue mould.
• Washed-rind cheeses, like Munster or Pont-l’Évêque, with their strong aromas and bold flavours.
• Hard cheeses, including Comté and Beaufort, which are aged for months or years to develop deep, nutty notes.
This classification makes it easier to explore French cheese without being overwhelmed by its vastness.
Cheese and Terroir
The concept of terroir — the unique combination of soil, climate, and tradition — is at the heart of French cheesemaking. Each region’s cheese reflects its environment: Normandy’s lush pastures give birth to creamy Camembert, while the caves of southern France provide the perfect humidity for ageing Roquefort. This link between land and flavour is what makes French cheese so unique.
Pairing Cheese with Food and Wine
A cheese board is rarely complete without good bread and wine. The French approach is simple yet refined: pair creamy cheeses with crisp white wines, strong cheeses with bold reds, and blue cheeses with sweet wines like Sauternes. Fresh fruit, nuts, or honey are often added to enhance flavour contrasts and textures.
Cheese as a Cultural Symbol
Charles de Gaulle once famously asked, “How can you govern a country which has 246 varieties of cheese?” — a humorous remark that underlines how deeply cheese is woven into French identity. It symbolises diversity, craftsmanship, and the French love for simple pleasures elevated to art.
A Journey Worth Tasting
Discovering French cheese is like travelling across the country without leaving the table. Each bite is a passage through regions, traditions, and centuries of know-how. Whether you enjoy the delicate mildness of Brie or the powerful bite of Roquefort, French cheese remains a true ambassador of culture and taste.
