Christmas in France isn’t just a time for festive cheer—it’s also the perfect moment to try the best cheeses to enjoy in winter. Each offering rich, seasonal flavour and centuries of tradition.
Much like fruits and vegetables, certain cheeses are at their peak during specific times of the year. Winter cheeses, often matured over long periods, offer rich, robust flavours that perfectly complement the chilly season.
Here’s a look at some of the best cheeses to enjoy in winter, each with its unique history, flavour profile, and tradition.
Why Are Cheeses Seasonal?
Cheese, like any artisanal product, is influenced by the environment, the animals, and their diet. During winter, animals are typically brought indoors and fed hay, which changes the milk’s aroma and richness. As a result, the cheeses that shine during this time are those that have been maturing since spring or summer, when the milk was at its most flavorful.
Winter cheeses often have a long maturation period, resulting in complex flavours and a satisfying depth that pairs beautifully with hearty winter meals or a glass of red wine by the fire.
The Best French Cheeses to Enjoy in Winter
Brocciu: A Corsican Gem
Hailing from the island of Corsica, Brocciu is a creamy cheese made from sheep or goat milk. Known for its short ageing process (sometimes aged for less than a month), this cheese captures the freshness of the animals’ diet at the tail end of the grazing season.
AOC Status: Brocciu has been protected in France since 1983, ensuring its authenticity and quality.
Flavour Profile: Light, milky, and slightly tangy.
Uses: Often featured in traditional Corsican dishes or served simply with a drizzle of honey.
Fun Fact: Only about 400 tonnes of Brocciu are produced annually, making it a rare find in cheesemongers outside Corsica.
Salers: The Pride of Auvergne
For those who enjoy bold, unpasteurized cow’s milk cheese, Salers is an exceptional choice. Produced in the volcanic region of Auvergne, this cheese is a cousin of the famous Cantal but with its own distinct character.
History: Salers dates back centuries and gained fame when it was introduced to the court of Louis XIV.
Maturation: Typically aged between three and 45 months, with some varieties matured in traditional stone huts.
Flavour Profile: Earthy, nutty, and slightly tangy with a dense texture.
Production: Derived from Salers cows that graze on rich summer pastures, with only about 1,400 tonnes made each year.
Pont l’Évêque: Normandy’s Classic
One of Normandy’s most iconic cheeses, Pont l’Évêque has been delighting cheese lovers since the 12th century. With its distinctive square shape, this cow’s milk cheese is both a visual and culinary treat.
Taste: Buttery, creamy, and slightly nutty, with a hint of hazelnut.
Ageing: Develops a stronger aroma with longer maturation, but retains its balanced flavours.
How to Enjoy: Best served after a meal, paired with a red wine from Bordeaux or Burgundy.
Did You Know?: Only 2% of Pont l’Évêque is made by artisanal producers, with the rest produced by larger dairies.
Parmesan: An International Favourite
While not French, Parmigiano Reggiano (or Parmesan) earns its place on this list as a winter staple. Known for its crumbly texture and nutty flavour, Parmesan is a versatile addition to countless dishes.
Protected Status: Authentic Parmesan can only be produced in specific regions of northern Italy.
Flavour Profile: Savoury, nutty, and sharp, thanks to its brine soaking process using Mediterranean sea salt.
Uses: Grated over pasta, shaved into salads, or eaten in chunks with crusty bread and a glass of Chianti.
Fun Fact: Parmesan was controversially voted the world’s best cheese in 2023!
Cheese and the Winter Table
The rich and robust flavours of winter cheeses make them perfect for seasonal pairings:
Bread and Wine: A crusty baguette and a glass of red wine are classic companions.
Festive Dishes: Incorporate cheeses like Brocciu or Parmesan into festive recipes such as soufflés, pasta, or gratins.
Cheese Boards: Create a winter-themed cheese board with dried fruits, nuts, and honey for a cosy gathering.
Exploring the Tradition of Seasonal Cheeses
In France, the tradition of enjoying cheese in its peak season is an art form. Winter cheeses, with their long maturing process, are a testament to the patience and expertise of French cheesemakers. Whether you’re sampling Salers in the volcanic hills of Auvergne or seeking out a rare Brocciu in the south of France, these cheeses offer a deep connection to the land and its heritage.
Where to Find These Cheeses
For the best selection, visit local cheesemongers or speciality shops that prioritise seasonal products. Many markets in France highlight these winter delights in December, and online retailers like La Boîte du Fromager offer curated selections for those who want to indulge at home.
Final Thought: Winter is the perfect season to explore the rich tapestry of French cheeses. From the creamy Brocciu of Corsica to the earthy Salers of Auvergne, every cheese tells a story of tradition, craftsmanship, and flavour. So, why not add a little French flair to your December table? Bon appétit!
To discover more cheeses from Charente, go to Cheeses of Poitou-Charente.
If you’re a cheese lover, come join us at one of our retreats where we sample seasonal French cheeses and learn about the best wine pairings. Explore our retreats here.
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