European cheeses combine superb taste and tradition
What sets European cheeses apart?
Exceptional quality stemming from centuries of deep-rooted tradition and dedicated craftmanship, as well as stringent quality standards.
How do terrain, climate and tradition influence cheese-making, particularly in Austria and France?
The fertile grasslands and varied altitudes across Europe provide the perfect environment for raising livestock, which produces rich, flavourful milk for European cheeses. France produces more than 1,200 varieties of cheese, and each region’s unique characteristics influence the profile of its cheeses. Similarly in Austria, Alpine pastures and varying altitudes create rich, diverse grasses for grazing, resulting in distinct cheese flavours. Coupled with traditional methods passed down through generations, these factors ensure that European cheeses are not just a product for consuming, but a cultural experience that reflects the land and history behind each variety.
Why should Canadian grocers carry cheeses from Austria and France?
They offer rich and diverse flavour profiles, from mild and creamy to bold and complex. Austrian alpine cheeses bring a robust, herbaceous taste from mountain pastures, while French cheeses range from creamy and delicate to sharp and complex. Adding these varieties in-store means customers can get an authentic taste of Europe with products that not only deliver on flavour, but also carry a strong cultural narrative, appealing to both everyday consumers and culinary enthusiasts. Plus, these cheeses typically have a longer shelf life, making them a practical choice for retailers and consumers alike.
What are lesser-known French and Austrian cheeses for Canadian seeking unique flavours, and what do they pair well with?
Comté, from the Jura region, is one of France’s most beloved cheeses with a nutty, slightly fruity flavour that becomes more complex with age. It pairs well with Chardonnay or a light Burgundy, as well as with fresh apples, walnuts and a crusty baguette. Bleu d’Auvergne is a blue cheese from the Auvergne region in France, with grassy notes and a creamy tanginess that goes with medium-bodied red wines as well as pears and candied nuts.
From Austria, Bergkäse (Mountain Cheese) has a rich, nutty and spicy taste that intensifies with age and pairs with hearty red wines, crusty bread and cured meats. Emmentaler’s mild, nutty flavour with a hint of sweetness goes with crisp white wines, apples or as a perfect melting cheese for fondue.
In what way are European cheese producers focusing on sustainable practices?
Our cheese producers focus on traditional, minimally processed methods, using high-quality milk. They have also implemented eco-friendly practices, such as reducing waste, using renewable energy, and supporting biodiversity in pasturelands.
What can grocers do to educate consumers about European cheeses?
Creating visually appealing cheese counters that highlight the origin, flavour profiles and production methods of each cheese will spark consumer curiosity. Hosting cheese tasting events also allows them to sample different varieties, learn about their unique characteristics, and discover what they pair best with. Providing signage or brochures that detail suggested pairings and storage tips can further enhance consumer understanding. Additionally, training staff to be knowledgeable about the cheeses they sell can create a more personalized shopping experience.
For more information, please contact:
Julia Goeschelbauer, Head of Export Marketing, AMA-Marketing (Organization that promotes and ensures the quality of Austrian agricultural food products): julia. [email protected]
Siobhán Kane, Marketing Project Manager, CNIEL (French dairy interbranch organization): [email protected]
Xavier Bernard, Agence Hopscotch Canada Ltée, [email protected]
To learn more, visit linktr.ee/fromages.europe.cheeses and follow @Fromages.Europe.Cheeses on Instagram and Europe Full of Character on Facebook.
