The 5 Most Coveted French Cheeses You Need to Try

Ah, France. The land of love, art, and… cheese. Forget the Eiffel Tower, the real Parisian treasure lies in its overflowing cheese cellars. Over 1,000 varieties! From the delicate kiss of a creamy Brie to the assertive bite of a pungent Roquefort, French cheese is a symphony for the senses.

But with such a vast selection, where do you even begin? I'm about to unveil a curated list of five must-try French cheeses. These aren't just any cheeses; they're the crème de la crème, the stars of the French dairy scene. Prepare to embark on a flavor journey that will leave you utterly smitten.

The Rich World of French Cheeses

1- Tomme Crayeuse: The Earthy Delight of Normandy

Tomme Crayeuse is a semi-soft cheese from the Normandy region in France, a land famous for its rich dairy traditions. It is made from cow’s milk and is characterized by its pale, creamy texture and slightly crumbly feel. The name “Crayeuse” refers to its chalky consistency, which gives the cheese its distinctive texture.

The Flavor Profile and Mouthfeel

This one has a mild, earthy flavor with subtle hints of mushrooms and grass, making it an excellent introduction to French cheeses. It’s a cheese that speaks of its terroir, offering a taste of the lush pastures of Normandy. It’s often enjoyed with a glass of apple cider, which pairs perfectly with its delicate, slightly tangy notes.

2- Bleu des Causses: The Bold Blue Cheese

Bleu des Causses is a blue cheese hailing from the Causses Plateau in southern France. Made from cow’s milk, this cheese is known for its creamy texture and the signature blue veins running through it. The veins are created by the introduction of Penicillium roqueforti, the same mold used in other famous blue cheeses like Roquefort.

The Balance of Sharpness and Creaminess

It stands out for its bold flavor profile that balances sharp tanginess with a smooth creaminess. The taste is less pungent than Roquefort, with a more delicate and earthy finish. This cheese is perfect for those who enjoy a stronger, saltier bite but aren’t fans of the overpowering intensity of some other blue cheeses.

3- Langres: The Icon of Champagne Region

Langres is a cow’s milk cheese from the Champagne-Ardenne region of France. It is semi-soft with a smooth, buttery texture and a bright, golden rind. It is often recognized by its distinctive concave top, which is formed during the aging process.

Flavor Notes and Texture

What makes Langres truly unique is its tangy, creamy taste, often described as both rich and fresh. The cheese has a mild, milky flavor that evolves into a slightly fruity finish, with a subtle saffron-like taste. When properly aged, Langres can develop a slightly stronger, more piquant flavor, making it perfect for those who enjoy a multi-layered cheese experience.

4- Brocciu: The Traditional Corsican Delight

Brocciu is a fresh cheese made from sheep’s or goat’s milk, and it is a central part of Corsican cuisine. It has a soft, moist texture that’s somewhat similar to ricotta, but with a flavor that’s distinctly more complex. It has a long history, dating back to the ancient Greeks, and is considered a Cultural Heritage of Corsica.

Texture and Flavors of Brocciu

Brocciu has a mild, slightly tangy flavor with a hint of sweetness, making it a versatile cheese for both savory and sweet dishes. It’s perfect for anyone who loves a creamy, smooth cheese without too much saltiness. Corsican people traditionally enjoy Brocciu in both sweet and savory dishes, such as tarts and pastries or mixed with herbs and served on bread.

5- Pérail: The Creamy Wonder of the South

Pérail is a sheep’s milk cheese from the Languedoc-Roussillon region of southern France. It’s a soft, creamy cheese with a smooth rind that ranges from white to pale yellow. Known for its tangy and salty taste, Pérail is often compared to the famous Roquefort, but it is less intense and more approachable for those new to French cheeses.

Tangy and Creamy Characteristics

It offers a rich, creamy texture with a tangy, almost citrus-like flavor. The cheese has a delicate balance between mild creaminess and subtle saltiness, which makes it incredibly versatile and enjoyable for a wide range of palates. Pérail is a cheese that will charm those who prefer something both rich and refined without being overpowering.

Crafting the Perfect Cheese Experience

 The Essentials for a Fantastic Cheese Board

Creating the perfect cheese experience is all about balance. Start by selecting a variety of cheeses with different textures and flavors—creamy, tangy, sharp, and sweet. Arrange them on a beautiful wooden board or slate platter and let each cheese shine. Don’t forget to provide a few complementary items like fresh bread, crackers, and fruits.

How to Pair Cheeses with Complementary Items

For the best cheese experience, pair your cheeses with crackers, bread, or even toasted nuts. The contrast in textures will enhance the cheese's natural flavors, and a drizzle of honey or fruit preserves will add sweetness to balance the tanginess of certain cheeses.

The Ideal Cheese Board Salad

Fresh Salad Ideas to Accompany Cheese

A fresh salad can serve as the perfect complement to your cheese selection. Opt for greens like arugula or baby spinach to add a peppery kick, and top with fruits like pears or figs for sweetness. Candied nuts add a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheeses.

How to Balance Flavors in a Cheese Board Salad

The key to a great salad is balance. A light vinaigrette made from olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of honey will bring out the best in both your cheeses and your greens. Add a few fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant touch.

 

French cheeses are an absolute delight, each one offering its own unique flavors and textures. From the earthy Tomme Crayeuse to the bold Bleu des Causses and the creamy Pérail, these cheeses offer an authentic taste of France’s rich culinary heritage. Whether you’re enjoying them as part of a cheese board or in a recipe, these five cheeses are a must-try for anyone who loves exploring new flavors.

Don’t just limit yourself to the famous cheeses like Brie and Camembert—explore these hidden gems to truly understand the depth and beauty of French cheese culture. Bon appétit!

 

 

FAQs

 

What makes French cheeses so special?

French cheeses are special due to their rich history, regional diversity, and traditional methods of production. Each cheese is a product of the local terroir, offering unique textures, flavors, and aromas that you can’t find anywhere else.

How do I store these French cheeses properly?

To preserve the freshness and flavor, store French cheeses in a cool, dark place, ideally wrapped in wax paper and placed inside an airtight container. Always take them out of the fridge about 30 minutes before eating to allow the flavors to develop fully.

Where can I buy these cheeses outside of France?

Many specialty cheese shops around the world carry authentic French cheeses. You can also find them at upscale grocery stores or order them online from renowned suppliers.

Are these cheeses suitable for vegetarians?

While most of these cheeses are made with animal milk, some, like Brocciu, can be made with goat or sheep’s milk, which might be more suitable for vegetarians depending on personal preferences. Always check the label if you have dietary restrictions.