Normandy Camembert is an emblematic cheese of the Normandy region and particularly of the Manche region, renowned for its creamy texture and delicate taste. This soft cheese is made from cow's milk, generally raw, and it benefits from a controlled designation of origin (AOC) which guarantees its authenticity. Its artisanal manufacturing process helps preserve the quality and authenticity of this cheese, making Norman Camembert a culinary gem to savor.
History of Camembert
Legend has it that the invention of Camembert was born from Marie Harel, 18th century farmer near Camembert, in Orne. The recipe was originally for Brie. Indeed, Charles-Jean Bonvoust would have transmitted the technique of forming Brie to Marie Harel in exchange for her help in fleeing the Republicans. Marie Harel is therefore inspired by this recipe to create Camembert. Then, Marie Harel's daughter and son-in-law began to sell Camembert in the surrounding markets. And here the Camembert was born!
The real Normandy Camembert
The true Normandy Camembert AOP and AOC must meet many criteria. He must :
– be cylindrical
– weigh at least 250g
– contain a minimum of 22% fat
– be molded with a ladle
– be sold in a wooden box
– be made in Normandy
– be made from raw milk from Normandy
– have at least 50% Normandy breed dairy cows.
La Fromagerie Réo
Created by cheesemaker Théodore REAUX, the Réo cheese factory was established in Manche, in Lessay, in 1931, in the heart of the Normandy countryside. It collects milk from around thirty producers located within a 30 km radius around the cheese factory. These producers are authorized by a certifying body to verify that they correspond to the precise specifications of the AOP Camembert. The milk is transformed into Camembert de Normandie AOP, thick crème fraîche, churned butter and country and smooth white cheese made in the traditional way.
Fromagerie Réo won 74 medals at the general agricultural competition of the Paris Fair
Visit the Réo cheese factory
Discover the know-how of making Camembert by visiting the Réo company, the entire manufacturing stage is explained during the visit. You will also be able to discover the entire collection of Camembert labels then end the visit with the shop to treat yourself to dairy products and take with you a little piece of Normandy.
