Experience the Craft of Artisan French Cheese
When it comes to cheese, few countries have the depth of tradition and variety that France does. At The Cheese Shop Nantwich, we have a deep appreciation for the passion, patience and quality that go into every wheel and wedge of artisan French cheese. These cheeses are made using traditional methods, often passed down through generations. They’re shaped by the landscapes, animals, and people who produce them, creating something that feels alive with personality.
Artisan cheeses are made in small batches, often by hand, and always with care. Unlike mass-produced options, these cheeses depend on high-quality milk, minimal intervention and long, slow maturation, giving each variety its unique taste, texture and appearance.
The Variety and Depth of Artisan French Cheese
France offers one of the largest selections of cheese in the world, many of which carry the coveted AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée) label. This system protects traditional production methods and links cheeses to specific regions. So when you bite into a piece of Reblochon AOC, you’re tasting the Alpine pastures where the cows graze, not just milk and salt.
Let’s explore a few of the many types of artisan French cheese available:
Soft-Ripened Cheeses
Soft-ripened cheeses like Brie and Camembert are famous for their velvety rinds and luxurious, creamy insides. These cheeses mature from the outside in, developing a soft, edible white mould called a bloomy rind.
One unforgettable example is the decadent Délice de Bourgogne. This triple-cream beauty is rich and buttery, with just the right touch of salt to round off its luscious texture.
Washed-Rind Cheeses with Bold Personality
Washed-rind cheeses are known for their stronger aromas and bolder flavours. Made by rinsing the cheese with brine, beer, or wine during its ripening, this process encourages a more pungent and colourful rind.
The Alpine favourite Reblochon de Savoie brings a nutty yet gentle taste that softens with time, while Raclette, when melted, turns into an indulgent treat perfect for sharing over potatoes and charcuterie.
Blue Cheeses with Deep Character
Blue cheeses are instantly recognisable from their marbled interiors, formed when selected moulds are introduced to the curd. Their flavours often range from tangy to sharp, with delightful creamy notes.
France’s Roquefort is one of the world’s most historic cheeses, matured in the natural caves of Combalou and known for its sharp, salty bite. For a milder alternative, Bleu d’Auvergne offers creaminess with a peppery kick, perfect for salads or sweet pairings like figs and honey.
Old Traditions and Regional Flavours
One of the joys of artisan French cheese is how much it reflects the place where it was made. A cheese from the snowy Alps tastes entirely different from one crafted in the greener pastures of the Loire. Factors like altitude, local grass varieties and season all play a big role in flavour.
Take Reblochon AOC, for example. Produced in the Savoie region, its earthy tones come from the diet of cows grazing on alpine herbs and flowers. Similarly, the slightly firmer Tomme de Savoie has a rustic look and mild yet savoury flavour that hints at the mountain air where it was born.
Bringing the Mountains to Your Plate
There’s no denying the beauty of bringing home rich tastes from the French countryside. Luckily, you don’t have to hunt these cheeses down yourself. At The Cheese Shop Nantwich, we source dozens of authentic varieties so you can fill your plate with exquisite flavours of France.
If you fancy warming your kitchen with Alpine comfort, the smooth and nutty richness of Comté is perfect for melting into quiche or grating over pasta.
For something smaller but full of character, Crottin AOC is a great soft goat cheese with tangy notes that deepen as it ages. Add it to mixed salads or toast it on sourdough for a delicious snack.
And if you’re in the mood for something rare and special, do not miss Fourme d’Ambert AOC, one of France’s oldest cheeses, with a mellow blue profile and cylindrical shape.
Exploring French Cheese Hampers for Every Occasion
When you’re unsure where to start, French cheese hampers provide a brilliant introduction to different flavours and styles. A curated box of artisan cheeses can help recreate the experience of an open-air French market at home.
They also make thoughtful gifts. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, sending thanks, or just treating yourself, French cheese hampers bring together a fine collection of cheeses, sometimes paired with chutney, crackers or wine.
And the best part? Everything inside is handpicked by cheese experts who know what pairs well with what, saving you any guesswork.
Why Artisan French Cheese Stands Out
Artisan French cheese offers more than just great taste. It’s about supporting farmers, cheesemakers and centuries-old craftsmanship that puts quality above quantity. From hillside farms to centuries-old caves, each cheese tells a little story of the hard work behind it.
At The Cheese Shop Nantwich, we’re proud to support those traditions and pass on that quality to you. Whether you prefer a classic Brie or want to explore something more unusual, like Saint Mont Des Alpes, we believe the best cheese moments are all about indulgence without compromise.
Serving and Storing French Cheese Hampers
Presentation makes all the difference. When serving a selection from your French cheese hamper, always let your cheese sit at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes. This helps release the full aroma and flavour.
Use a cheese board or wooden platter, and serve with accompaniments like sliced apples, fresh figs, walnut bread or a drizzle of honey. Mild and soft cheeses should be arranged first, then build up to the stronger varieties to appreciate the flavour journey.
For storage, wrap individual pieces in wax paper or cheese paper, then place them in a loose ziplock or container. Avoid plastic wrap as it suffocates the cheese and spoils its natural ageing.
FAQs
What makes a cheese “artisan”?
Artisan cheese is made in small batches, often by hand, using traditional methods and high-quality milk. No large-scale machinery, no shortcuts, just pure craftsmanship.
Are all French cheeses strong-smelling?
Not at all. While some, like Munster or Langres, have intense aromas, others, such as Comté or Tomme de Savoie, are mild and nutty.
How long will a French cheese hamper last?
It depends on the types of cheese, but most will last between one and three weeks if stored properly. Eat softer cheeses sooner, while aged ones often keep longer.
Can I freeze artisan cheese?
Freezing is not ideal for texture, especially for soft cheeses. If needed, hard cheeses can be frozen by wrapping them well, but fresh ones are always best.
What drinks pair well with artisan French cheese?
A glass of red wine or even cider goes well with most. For blue cheeses, try something sweet like port or dessert wine. Sparkling wine offers a fresh contrast for creamy or bloomy cheeses.
Bring Home a Taste of France
From the creamy richness of Délice de Bourgogne to the bold depth of Roquefort, artisan French cheese offers a world of flavours just waiting to be enjoyed. It’s not just about taste, it’s about preserving culture, honouring tradition and taking the time to enjoy food that tells a story.
At The Cheese Shop Nantwich, we love sharing this passion through our diverse selection. Whether you build your cheese board or choose one of our beautiful French cheese hampers, every bite is a step into French craftsmanship.
Explore, taste and enjoy, because good cheese is always worth sharing.
