Celebrating Cheese Lovers Day

A French Affair with Fromage

January 20th marks Cheese Lovers Day—a celebration dedicated to one of the world’s most beloved culinary delights. And who better to honour on this special day than France, the nation renowned for elevating cheese into an art form?

The Origins of Cheese Lovers Day

While the exact beginnings of Cheese Lovers Day remain unclear, this delightful day is a nod to the craftsmanship, tradition, and universal joy that cheese brings to our tables. Whether it’s paired with wine, spread on fresh baguettes, or enjoyed as part of an indulgent charcuterie board, cheese has a unique way of connecting people and enriching our culinary experiences.

France officially celebrates National Cheese Day on 27th March.

France: The Heartland of Cheese

France is home to over 1,000 varieties of cheese, each reflecting the terroir, history, and passion of its region. From creamy, velvety textures to sharp, bold flavours, French cheeses cater to every palate. Here are some favourites to inspire your Cheese Lovers Day celebrations:

Brie de Meaux: Known as the “Queen of Cheeses,” this soft and creamy delight originates from the Île-de-France region. Its buttery texture and subtle earthy notes make it a staple on any cheeseboard.  Brie De Meaux is still traditionally artisan made, just 30 miles east of Paris in the region of Ile-de-France but it has a history going back over one thousand two hundred years!

Roquefort: This blue-veined cheese from the Occitanie region boasts a tangy and salty profile. Made from sheep’s milk, Roquefort is aged in limestone caves, giving it its distinct character. Though similar cheeses are produced elsewhere, EU lawdictates that only those cheeses aged in the natural Combalou caves of Roquefort-sur-Soulzon may bear the name Roquefort.

Comté: A hard cheese from the Jura Mountains, Comté is celebrated for its nutty, caramel-like taste. It’s perfect for snacking or melting into a fondue.  You will normally never buy a whole Comté cheese as they are huge discs of about 20 centimetres in diameter. Comte is always sold in slices. The Comté cheese was first produced in the 12th century in France.

Camembert de Normandie: Often mistaken for Brie, Camembert is slightly more intense with a rich, creamy interior. Pair it with a crusty baguette and a glass of cider for a true taste of Normandy.  Its origins date back to the late 1700’s.  Whilst the name Camembert can be used by cheesemakers around the world, Camembert de Normandie is a protected name that is reserved exclusively for cheeses made according to strict specifications in the Normandie region.

Chèvre: Originally produced in and around the central regions of France, today France’s goat cheeses are as varied as the regions they hail from. Whether fresh and mild or aged and tangy, chèvre is a versatile favourite.  How to Celebrate Cheese Lovers Day the French Way

How to Celebrate Cheese Lovers Day the French Way

1. Create a Cheeseboard à la Française: Include a mix of textures and flavours—soft, hard, blue, and goat cheese. Don’t forget accompaniments like honey, nuts, dried fruits, and baguettes.
   
   
2. Pair Cheese with French Wine: Match a crisp Sauvignon Blanc with goat cheese or a robust Bordeaux with Comté.
   
   
3. Learn the Art of Fromage: Explore the stories behind your favourite French cheeses and the regions they come from.
   
4. Set Your Table Intentionally: Whether hosting indoors or out, be sure to hoose your favourite pieces that reflect a French table setting.  Tablecloths, napkins, cutlery, cheese boards. flowers, condiment dishes.  Whatever speaks to you and your style will be perfect!

Cheese Lovers Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in the joy of fromage and celebrate life’s simple pleasures. At Malmaison, we believe in effortless elegance and joie de vivre—and what could be more French than savouring cheese with friends and family?

Bon appétit et vive le fromage!

FEATURED

• André Verdier 'Fromages de France' Cheese Board
• La Rochere Fleur de Lys Wine Glass
• André Verdier Cheese Knife
• Provincial Red Check Tablecloth
• Wine - Pinot Grigio - Feet on the Ground 
• Cheese - King Island Double Brie