Cheese In France In The Spotlight With New Cheese Factory in Paris

A brand new cheese museum in France is grate news for cheese in France. 

Let’s face it, cheese and France go together like tapas and Spain and it’s about time France celebrated cheese in the same way they do with wine.

Wine culture and wine museums are well developed in France in places like Bordeaux and the Cité du Vin, but cheese is a second-class citizen in comparison.

In reality, cheese is up there with wine in popularity and has roots that go back centuries. 

In a 2024 study by Mintel, France came in second place in the cheese stakes, second only to the Netherlands. 

So it seems only fitting that along with all the history and art museums in Paris, there should be one dedicated to cheese.

Pierre Brisson, the founder of Musée du Fromage, has been planning the launch for over a decade, and the doors open on June 13th, 2024.

Why Paris Needs A Cheese Museum

France has some of the most famous cheese loved by people all over the world, and in my opinion, the smellier the better. From brie and camembert to mimolette and cantal they make an appearance in many household fridges.

And don’t get me started on Roquefort, I could eat it every day.

So why did Pierre Brisson decide now was the time to open a cheese museum in Paris?

Because he is passionate about cheese, the cheese-making process and the issues that currently plague the industry.

He wanted somewhere where people could come and learn, take part in workshops, and most importantly taste the cheese afterwards.

There has been a steady decline in traditional cheese making as the younger generation isn’t staying in the country as their parents and grandparents did. They are moving to the city, for what they consider an easier work option.

Although a cheesemaker is well paid, it’s hard work and takes a particular skill set, along with attention to detail and the ability to rinse and repeat day in and day out.

There is a noticeable skill shortage in the more rural parts of France where many of the famous French cheeses are produced.

Pierre, who also opened a cheesemaking school, Paroles de Fromagers, fifteen years ago when he first came to Paris, hopes the museum will entice people back into the trade. 

We are opening a little window in the heart of Paris to the rural side of France.

Pierre Brisson | The Musée du Fromage founder

What You’ll Find At Musée du Fromage?

Housed in Le Marais district in an old restaurant, Nos Ancêtres Les Gaulois, a building that is over 500 years old, the museum is an interactive experience. You’ll start your cheese journey with an exhibition on the history of cheese and cheesemaking in France.

Then comes the practical part with a workshop teaching you the traditional way cheese is made and giving you some hands-on experience.

The onsite dairy produces cheese daily, allowing you to taste some of what has been made. And if you like what you’ve tried you can buy some to take home from the fromagerie. 

Why Cheesemaking Is A Dying Art

Unfortunately, with the growing trend around ethically produced goods and health-driven eating, the cheesemaking profession has taken a hit. 

The museum wants to shine a light on how ethical production is an important part of the cheesemaking process. To have great cheese you need good milk and to get good milk you need well-bred cattle to produce it.

This is at the essence of all cheesemaking and by showcasing the methods of production, Pierre hopes it will allow people to see that cheese is something to be celebrated.

Cheesemaking is an art that goes back centuries when modern-day technology wasn’t available and old-fashioned farming methods were the only option. These old skills, which have been passed down from generation to generation, are part of France’s agricultural history.

They aren’t the enemy they are a way of life that has been developed over time and is in danger of dying out. We have a responsibility to carry on these traditions and skills to ensure our love affair with cheese is able to continue.

Where to find Musée du Fromage

Based in the 4th arrondissement at 39 rue Saint-Louis en l’Île, it’s an exciting addition to the choice of museums in the French capital and I for one, can’t wait to check it out.

For tickets and opening times visit the official museum website.