Paris, the heart of France, has opened a new museum, the Musee du Fromage, dedicated to celebrating the age-old craft of cheesemaking. As the second most prolific cheese producer in Europe after Italy, France is an apt location for such an establishment. This museum offers visitors a deep dive into the 5,000-year-old history of cheesemaking and the chance to taste and learn about various renowned French cheeses.

The brainchild of this unique museum is Pierre Brisson, who moved to Paris 15 years ago. He noticed that despite Parisian pride and a thriving museum scene showcasing wine, cheese – arguably an even more quintessential French symbol – was conspicuously missing. Brisson’s goal is to give visitors a taste of rural France right in the heart of Paris. The museum collaborates with many traditional farmers to ensure an authentic experience.

Brisson recalls his childhood days when he would stand on his tippy-toes at the market to peer into the display cases of cheesemakers, marveling at the variety. His vision is for visitors to sample cheese at the museum and feel as if they are journeying through different regions of France.

France has given the world some of its most cherished cheeses including Camembert, Brie, Epoisses du Bourgogne, Roquefort, Ossau Irati, Comte, La Tur among others. Agathe de Saint-Exupéry, one of the experts at the museum, explains that cheesemaking is a complex process that hinges on numerous factors including even the mood of the animals whose milk is used. She stresses that each day’s cheese will taste different despite following the same recipe because it cannot be mass-produced.

Cheesemaking provides a better livelihood than other rural activities in France. However, it is a demanding and sometimes strenuous job currently facing a labor shortage. Brisson hopes the museum will help people reconnect with their rural heritage and appreciate its value and contribution to French life, even in urban areas.

Brisson firmly believes that we have inherited centuries of cheesemaking skills from our ancestors. He sees it as our duty to preserve this tradition and pass on the passion to future generations.

The Musee du Fromage is a must-visit for all cheese enthusiasts and admirers of French cuisine. If you happen to be in Paris, make sure to include this unique museum in your itinerary!

Source: Good News Network