French Cheese 101: An Insider's Guide to Paris's Best Fromageries
Step into a French cheese shop and you'll discover over 1,200 varieties, each with its unique character. In France, cheese isn't merely food—it's the heart of social gatherings, where friends connect over wine and cheese before meals. Overwhelmed by the choices? Don't be! Whether you're planning your first cheese tasting in Paris or venturing beyond familiar varieties, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about French cheese. We'll share local tips and recommendations to help you discover your new favorites.
The Three Cheese Families
French cheese falls into three main categories based on milk source: cow, goat, and sheep. Understanding these categories is your first step to becoming a cheese connoisseur. Each type has distinct characteristics, shaped by factors like breed, animal diet, production methods, aging process, and region. While this diversity makes simple categorization challenging, here are the essential traits of each type:
- Cow's Milk Cheese: The most approachable choice for beginners, offering balanced flavors with subtle earthiness and a creamy texture.
- Goat Cheese: Known for its white color due to high vitamin A content. Fresh varieties offer bright, slightly acidic flavors, while aged versions develop a crumblier texture and bolder taste.
- Sheep's Milk Cheese: Rich and buttery with nutty notes. These cheeses deliver fuller, more pronounced flavors that appeal to those who enjoy robust tastes.
Best Cheese Shops
As a cornerstone of French culinary culture, cheese is readily available everywhere—from local grocery stores to supermarkets. For the widest selection and expert guidance, visit a fromagerie (cheese shop), where knowledgeable fromagers will help you explore the offerings. Here are the best cheese shops in Paris:
Essential Tips for Cheese Shopping
Ready to navigate your fromagerie? Here's how to make the most of your cheese shopping experience. French cheese shops organize their selection by milk source, so look for these familiar varieties as reference points:
- Camembert → Cow's milk section
- Roquefort → Sheep's milk section
- Crottin → Goat cheese section
After finding your preferred milk source, explore textures—from soft to semi-soft to hard.
Unsure what to choose? Your cheesemonger is there to help! Ask for recommendations and seasonal selections (yes, cheese has seasons too!). Simply share your preferred flavor intensity and texture preferences.
Planning a cheese board? Let them know how many people you're serving and when you'll be enjoying the cheese. They'll help you select the perfect portions and ensure each cheese will be at its peak ripeness for your occasion.
Storing Your French Cheese
Store cheese in a cool place (10–15°C) for up to one day. For longer storage, place it in your refrigerator's vegetable drawer or an airtight container to prevent odors from transferring.
Let cheese rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to allow its flavors and aromas to fully develop.
Our Recommendations
If you like soft cheeses: Saint-Félicien is your perfect introduction to French cheese! This creamy delicacy melts in your mouth with subtle earthy and nutty flavors.
If you like semi-soft cheeses: Morbier is a fascinating choice with its distinctive ash line running through the middle. This cow's milk cheese offers a creamy, slightly smoky flavor with a smooth finish. Look for the AOC label to ensure authenticity.
If you like hard cheeses: Comté is France's most popular cheese for good reason! Experience its evolution by tasting different ages - from mild 12-month to complex 36-month varieties. Each slice delivers a perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and slightly salty notes. A true crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with both white and red wines.
Remember, experiencing French cheese in Paris isn't just about eating—it's about embracing a cultural tradition perfected over centuries. Take your time, stay curious, and don't hesitate to ask questions at the fromageries!
