France is renowned for its outstanding cheese. With so many varieties to choose from, it can be challenging to know where to start. This list of 10 exceptionally delicious cheeses to try in France showcases some of the country’s finest cheeses. Each has a unique flavor and texture that will please any cheese lover’s palate. From creamy bries to tangy blues, this list has something for everyone.
1. Comté
A semi-hard, unpasteurized cow’s milk cheese made in France’s Franche-Comté region. It is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of ways. Including as a snacking cheese, in sandwiches, or as a cooking ingredient. The cheese is aged for at least 4 months, giving it a nutty, sweet, slightly fruity flavor, and a firm yet pliable texture.
Comté is often compared to Gruyere, another Swiss-style cheese. But it has a more complex flavor profile and is often considered superior. Comté is a popular cheese in France and is highly regarded by cheese connoisseurs around the world.
2. Roquefort
Is a blue-veined cheese made from the milk of the Lacaune sheep in the Aveyron region of France. It is one of the world’s most famous blue cheeses. Has a distinct, tangy flavor that is both salty and sweet. Roquefort’s blue veins are created by the mold Penicillium roqueforti. Which is introduced into the cheese during the production process.
The cheese is aged for at least 3 months. During which time it develops a creamy texture and a rich, complex flavor that pairs well with fruit, nuts, and wine. Roquefort is a protected cheese, which means that it can only be made in certain parts of France and must meet strict production standards.
It is a favorite among cheese lovers and is often considered to be one of the finest blue cheeses in the world.
3. Camembert
A soft, creamy, and buttery cheese that originated in the Normandy region of France. It is made from cow’s milk and has a bloomy rind that is white in color and edible. Camembert has a rich, earthy flavor that becomes more intense as the cheese ages. It is often enjoyed on its own or as a dessert cheese, and pairs well with crusty bread, crackers, and fruit.
It is produced by a variety of cheese makers, but some of the most sought-after varieties are those that are made in the traditional way, using unpasteurized milk. A staple of French cuisine and is one of the most popular French cheeses around the world.
4. Brie de Meaux
A soft and creamy cheese that comes from the Meaux region of France. It is made from cow’s milk and has a bloomy rind that is white in color and edible. Brie de Meaux has a delicate and nutty flavor and a smooth buttery texture that becomes runnier as it ages. It is often enjoyed on its own or as a dessert cheese, and pairs well with bread, crackers, and fruit.
Brie de Meaux is a protected cheese, which means that it can only be made in certain parts of France and must meet strict production standards. It is considered to be one of the finest examples of Brie cheese and is highly regarded by cheese connoisseurs around the world.
5. Tomme de Savoie
A semi-soft, cow’s milk cheese that comes from the Savoie region of France. It has a natural rind that is often covered in gray or brown mold, which gives the cheese a rustic appearance. Tomme de Savoie has a mild, earthy flavor and a tangy finish, with a slightly grainy texture that becomes creamier as it ages.
It is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of ways, including as a snacking cheese, in sandwiches, or as a cooking ingredient. Tomme de Savoie is a staple of French cuisine and is often enjoyed with charcuterie, bread, and wine.
It is a popular cheese in France and is increasingly being recognized as one of the country’s best cheeses by cheese lovers around the world.
6. Reblochon
A semi-soft, cow’s milk cheese that comes from the Savoie region of France. It has a washed rind that is often reddish-orange in color and a creamy interior that becomes runnier as it ages. Reblochon has a rich and nutty flavor with a slightly sweet finish and a buttery texture that is perfect for melting.
It is often used in traditional French dishes, such as tartiflette, and pairs well with potatoes, charcuterie, and wine. Reblochon is a protected cheese, which means that it can only be made in certain parts of France and must meet strict production standards.
It is a favorite among cheese lovers and is often considered to be one of the most delicious cheeses from the Savoie region.
7. Cantal
A semi-hard, cow’s milk cheese that comes from the Auvergne region of France. It has a natural rind and a dense, slightly crumbly texture that becomes creamier as it ages. Cantal has a nutty, earthy flavor with a sharp finish, and is often compared to cheddar cheese.
It is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of ways, including as a snacking cheese, in sandwiches, or as a cooking ingredient. Cantal is a staple of French cuisine and is often enjoyed with bread, charcuterie, and wine.
It is a popular cheese in France and is increasingly being recognized as one of the country’s best cheeses by cheese lovers around the world.
8. Bleu d’Auvergne
A blue-veined cheese that comes from the Auvergne region of France. It is made from cow’s milk and has a natural rind that is often covered in a grayish-blue mold. Bleu d’Auvergne has a creamy and buttery texture, with a distinct tangy and salty flavor that is characteristic of blue cheeses.
The blue veins are created by the mold Penicillium roqueforti, which is introduced into the cheese during the production process. Bleu d’Auvergne is often enjoyed on its own or as a dessert cheese and pairs well with fruit, nuts, and wine.
It is a protected cheese, which means that it can only be made in certain parts of France and must meet strict production standards. Bleu d’Auvergne is a favorite among cheese lovers and is often considered to be one of the finest blue cheeses in the world.
9. Munster
A soft, washed-rind cheese that comes from the Alsace region of France. It is made from cow’s milk and has a reddish-orange rind that is often covered in a sticky, aromatic coating. Munster has a pungent, earthy flavor and a creamy texture that becomes runnier as it ages.
It is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of ways, including as a snacking cheese, in sandwiches, or as a cooking ingredient. Munster is a popular cheese in France and is often enjoyed with bread, charcuterie, and beer.
It is considered to be one of the most delicious cheeses from the Alsace region and is increasingly being recognized as one of the best French cheeses by cheese lovers around the world.
10. Fourme d’Ambert
A semi-hard, blue-veined cheese that comes from the Auvergne region of France. It is made from cow’s milk and has a natural rind that is often covered in a grayish mold. Fourme d’Ambert has a creamy and crumbly texture, with a mild, nutty flavor that is characteristic of blue cheeses.
The blue veins are created by the mold Penicillium roqueforti, which is introduced into the cheese during the production process. Fourme d’Ambert is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of ways, including as a snacking cheese, in salads, or as a cooking ingredient.
It pairs well with fruit, nuts, and wine, and is a popular cheese in France. Fourme d’Ambert is often considered to be one of the finest blue cheeses in the world. Increasingly being recognized as one of the best French cheeses by cheese lovers around the world.
In conclusion
France is one of the most celebrated cheese-producing countries in the world. From semi-hard Comté to soft Roquefort and Brie de Meaux, French cheeses have something for everyone. Whether you prefer a nutty flavor, a tangy finish, or a creamy texture. There is sure to be a French cheese that will perfectly suit your palate.
As the world increasingly recognizes the unique flavor profiles of these French cheeses. They continue to rise in popularity and become beloved by cheese lovers around the globe. The next time you are looking for a delicious and unique cheese experience. Look no further than France where some of the finest cheeses in the world are produce. Bon appétit!
