Normandy, with its lush, verdant pastures and rich agricultural heritage, is a paradise for cheese aficionados. Renowned globally for its exquisite dairy products, this region of France offers a plethora of cheese varieties, each with its own distinct character. Whether you’re a connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, a tour of Normandy’s best cheese makers is an indulgent experience not to be missed. Here’s your guide to the best places for tastings and purchases on a cheese lover’s tour of Normandy.
The Heart of Normandy Cheese
Normandy is famed for several iconic cheeses, including Camembert, Livarot, Pont-l’Évêque, and Neufchâtel. Each cheese reflects the region’s rich culinary traditions and artisanal craftsmanship.
Best Cheese Makers and Farms to Visit
- Camembert de Normandie at Maison du Camembert: Start your journey at the birthplace of Camembert in the village of Camembert itself. The Maison du Camembert offers a comprehensive museum experience that details the history and making of Camembert, along with tastings of authentic, raw milk Camembert de Normandie, which bears the AOP (Protected Designation of Origin) label.
- Livarot and Pont-l’Évêque at Fromagerie Graindorge: In the heart of Livarot, visit the Fromagerie Graindorge, a family-run business that has been crafting cheese since 1910. Take a self-guided tour through their cheese-making process and enjoy a tasting room experience where you can sample and buy their Livarot and Pont-l’Évêque cheeses, both of which are rich, pungent, and deeply flavorful.
- Neufchâtel at Ferme Mathilde: Head to Ferme Mathilde for a delightful introduction to Neufchâtel, one of Normandy’s oldest cheeses, recognized by its heart shape. This farm offers a close-up look at Neufchâtel’s production and an opportunity to purchase this creamy, slightly crumbly cheese directly from the source.
- AOC Cheeses at Les Fromageries de l’Etoile: Located in Forges-les-Eaux, this creamery is known for producing multiple AOC-certified cheeses. They provide guided tours that detail the rigorous standards required to meet AOC certification, followed by tastings of their premium products.
- Organic Cheeses at Ferme de la Houssaye: For those interested in organic cheese production, the Ferme de la Houssaye in the picturesque region of Pays d’Auge offers an exceptional experience. Their commitment to sustainable farming can be tasted in their exceptional range of organic cheeses, which you can sample in a rustic farm setting.
Planning Your Visit
- Timing Your Tour: The best times to visit these cheese makers are late spring through early fall when the pastures are lush and the cows are out grazing, which ensures the freshest, richest milk is used in the cheese-making process.
- Booking Tours: While some farms allow walk-ins, it’s best to book tours in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Some farms offer more extensive experiences, including hands-on cheese-making workshops.
- What to Bring: Be sure to have a cooler or insulated bag handy for storing your purchases, especially if you are traveling a long distance. Most farms also sell their own branded merchandise, which can make for lovely souvenirs.
Tasting and Pairing Tips
When tasting Normandy cheese, pair them with local products for a complete Norman culinary experience. Apples are a staple in the region, so try pairing your cheese with apple cider or Calvados, an apple brandy from Normandy. Additionally, the region’s rustic bread and fresh fruit complement the creamy textures and bold flavors of its cheeses beautifully.
Beyond Cheese
While the focus may be on cheese, Normandy’s rich culinary landscape offers much more. Consider combining your cheese tour with visits to cider houses and calvados distilleries, or explore some of the region’s historic sites and beautiful coastal towns.
A cheese tour in Normandy is more than just a tasting experience; it’s an immersion into a tradition that has been cherished and perfected over centuries. Each visit promises profound insights into the art of cheese making and leaves you with a deeper appreciation for one of France’s most beloved regions.
