France’s Superiority in Cheesemaking: Beyond Just Camembert | A Look by Meg Zimbeck

France is not the only country making exceptional cheeses. Great Britain, Switzerland, and even the US all have outstanding cheeses being produced. The most recent winner of the World Cheese Awards, Nidelven Blå, actually comes from Norway. However, when it comes to sheer numbers of exceptional cheeses, France leads the pack. Their tradition of cheese-making dates back over 2,000 years, and they have honed their craft to produce a wide variety of delicious cheeses.

Paris is a fantastic place to sample cheeses, with its high concentration of excellent fromageries. While visiting the new cheese museum is an option, simply strolling into a nearby shop can be just as rewarding. Look for the word “affineur” as these sellers compete to source cheese from top producers and ripen them to perfection. The taste of these cheeses is far superior to their pasteurized or supermarket counterparts.

During the summer, young and fresh cheeses made from goat’s milk are in season. These cheeses often have hints of wild herbs and green grass, reflecting the diet of the goats that produced them. This direct connection to the source of the flavors makes these cheeses even more special.

One of the must-try French cheeses is Brie de Meaux. This authentic brie with an edible rind offers complex aromas of mushrooms, cauliflower, forest leaves, and even oysters. Pasteurized brie, found in many supermarkets, pales in comparison to the real deal. A good affineur will even ask when you plan to eat your Brie de Meaux to ensure it is perfectly ripe on that day.

Paris is home to many excellent fromageries, but one standout is Laurent Dubois. Visitors can sample cheeses at his shop and then head to a nearby wine cellar for a tasting. For those who want to enjoy a picnic, the Seine River is just a few blocks away, making it the perfect setting to savor French cheese and wine. Meg Zimbeck, editor of Paris by Mouth, also organizes food tours, including The French Cheese Explosion tour.