Paris: Cheesemaking Workshop

A Unique Cheese Making Experience in Paris for Just $82

The Paris: Cheesemaking Workshop offers an engaging glimpse into France’s beloved cheese tradition, all within a compact 2-hour session. For $82 per person, participants meet at Paroles de Fromagers, a dedicated cheese shop in the heart of Paris, and spend their time learning and creating under the guidance of passionate experts. This tour is ideal for those curious about French culinary arts, cheese lovers, or anyone seeking a hands-on activity that combines education with delicious tasting.

While it’s a short experience, the small group size limited to 10 participants ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. The workshop’s popularity is reflected in a stellar 4.9 out of 5 stars from 94 reviews, with many highlighting the knowledgeable guides and the fun of making cheese and butter themselves. No prior experience is needed, making this an accessible and enjoyable activity for a wide range of visitors.

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Key Points

• Hands-on cheese making: Learn how to craft “tomme fraiche”, a traditional French cheese.
• Visit a cheese-aging cellar: See cheeses in various stages of maturation and smell the differences firsthand.
• Expert guidance: Led by English-speaking cheese masters who explain the process clearly and engagingly.
• Tasting with wine: Conclude the session with samples of your own cheese, paired with local wine.
• All equipment and tastings included: Everything needed for cheese and butter creation is provided, with no hidden costs.
• Flexible booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The Location: Paroles de Fromagers in Paris

The workshop starts at Paroles de Fromagers, a well-regarded cheese shop in Paris. The meeting point is easy to find and serves as a cozy, authentic setting that enhances the overall experience. The shop’s ambiance offers a warm welcome, making participants feel comfortable from the moment they arrive.

Exploring the Cheese-Aging Cellar in Paris

One of the highlights is visiting the cheese-aging cellar located at the school. Here, participants see and smell a variety of cheeses that are in different stages of maturation. This visit provides insight into the traditional French process of cheese aging, which can take months. Seeing these cheeses in their natural environment adds depth to understanding their final textures and flavors.

Making “Tomme Fraiche” and Artisanal Butter

The core activity involves learning to make “tomme fraiche,” a cheese with a slightly milky and acidic taste, used widely in traditional French dishes. Under the guidance of the cheese master, participants create their own batch, gaining practical skills that can be applied at home later. Plus, the workshop includes making artisanal butter, providing a full dairy experience. The process is straightforward and designed to be accessible, even for those new to cheese making.

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The Tasting Experience with French Wine

After crafting cheese and butter, the session culminates with a tasting of the products you’ve made. The cheese is paired with excellent local wine, enhancing the flavors and adding an authentic French touch to the activity. Reviewers particularly appreciate the quality of the wine and the chance to sample their own creations in a relaxed setting.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The workshop covers all necessary equipment and all tastings, ensuring a seamless experience. An expert English-speaking instructor leads the group, sharing tips and insights throughout the session. However, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so participants should plan to arrive at the meeting point independently.

Accessibility, Group Size, and Booking Flexibility

The activity is designed for small groups, limited to 10 participants, fostering an intimate and engaging environment. The session is conducted in English, making it accessible for international visitors. It’s important to note that pets are not allowed, and the activity is not suitable for wheelchair users, which might be relevant for some visitors.

Participants can reserve their spot with no upfront payment, and they can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility adds convenience for travelers with uncertain schedules.

Highly Praised by Past Participants

Review scores reflect the strong appeal of this experience, with many describing it as “educational,” “fun,” and “delicious.” The guides, including named experts like Gabriele and Paul, earn praise for their knowledgeable and engaging teaching styles. The activity consistently receives comments about its informative nature and the enjoyment of making cheese and butter themselves.

Many reviewers highlight the activity as a favorite part of their trip to Paris, noting that the cheese and wine tasting at the end is the perfect finale. Several mention that children and even large groups, including families and multi-generational groups, find it equally enjoyable.

How This Tour Differs from Other Culinary Experiences in Paris

Compared to other cooking classes or pastry workshops, this cheese-making experience offers a more interactive and tactile activity that results in tangible products participants can take home. The visit to the cheese-aging cellar and the step-by-step process of making “tomme fraiche” provide a deeper understanding of French cheese traditions. The inclusion of wine pairing adds an extra layer of authenticity and pleasure.

Final Thoughts on the Paris Cheesemaking Workshop

This 2-hour activity delivers a fun, educational, and tasty glimpse into France’s cheese culture. It’s especially well-suited for those eager to learn practical skills that can be recreated at home. The small group size and expert guidance ensure an enjoyable experience, while the cost of $82 offers good value for the quality and uniqueness of the activity.

While it doesn’t include transportation, the location is convenient and the activity itself is accessible for most visitors interested in culinary arts. If you want to create your own cheese and enjoy tasting it with excellent wine, this workshop provides a memorable and engaging way to spend part of your Paris trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this activity suitable for children?
Many reviews mention that children enjoy making cheese and butter, and it’s great for families, though specific age restrictions are not detailed.

Do I need prior cooking experience?
No prior experience is necessary. The guides are very clear, and the activity is designed to be accessible for beginners.

Can I take home the cheese I make?
Yes, participants can take the remaining butter they make with them at the end of the session.

Is the workshop accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the activity is not suitable for wheelchair users, and pets are not allowed.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for travel plans.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby