Paris Cheesemaking Workshop including Wine and Cheese Tasting with an Expert

If you’re visiting Paris and want a unique, tasty way to explore French culture, a Cheesemaking Workshop with wine tasting might just be your best bet. Although we haven’t personally done this experience, reviews suggest it’s a highlight for many travelers—blending hands-on fun with expert insights.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the small-group setting (up to 10 people) promises an intimate, relaxed atmosphere where you’re not just passively tasting but actively creating cheese and butter yourself. Second, the knowledgeable guides and cheese makers are praised for their friendly, cheerful approach, making learning about cheese both fun and easy to understand. However, one thing to keep in mind is that this is a roughly two-hour experience, so it’s a quick but dense dose of cheese education and tasting—no long, leisurely session.

This workshop is ideal for foodies and cheese lovers wanting a memorable, interactive activity, and it’s also perfect if you’re traveling with someone who enjoys a good glass of wine and a bit of hands-on learning. If you’re after a relaxed way to spend a couple of hours in Paris that combines culture, cuisine, and a bit of French craftsmanship, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Hands-On Experience: You actively make cheese and butter, not just watch or taste.
• Expert Guidance: Led by friendly, knowledgeable cheese mongers who explain the process clearly.
• Tasting & Pairing: Enjoy a variety of cheeses paired with French wine, enhancing the flavors.
• Small Group: Intimate class size ensures personalized attention.
• Cost & Value: At around $81, it offers good value considering the hands-on activity, tasting, and educational element.
• Location & Accessibility: Conveniently located at “Paroles de Fromagers,” near public transport.
• Duration & Planning: About 2 hours, with morning departure options, perfect for fitting into a busy itinerary.
• Memorable & Fun: Multiple reviews highlight how enjoyable and memorable the experience is.

What to Expect from the Cheesemaking Workshop

This is a lively, engaging experience that starts at “Paroles de Fromagers,” a traditional cheese shop in Paris. As soon as you walk in, you’re greeted by friendly cheese mongers eager to share their passion. The workshop kicks off with a brief introduction to cheese making by your host, who is praised for being cheerful and clear—making what could seem complex surprisingly simple.

You’ll be taken behind the scenes to the workshop area, where you’ll learn the secrets of cheese creation firsthand. The instructor explains not only the steps but also shares interesting tidbits about the cheese’s history and the science behind its flavors. Some reviews mention that cheese and butter are made during the session—something that really elevates the experience from a tasting to a craft.

The actual process? You’ll get the chance to make your own cheese and butter, guided step-by-step. It’s a hands-on activity that’s accessible enough for most, with some reviewers noting how easy it is to make butter at home after seeing how straightforward it is here. The instructor explains the chemical processes in layman’s terms, which helps demystify the craft. For example, a reviewer mentioned that they were surprised at how simple making butter was—an insight that can inspire future kitchen experiments.

Once your cheese and butter are ready, it’s time for the fun part—sampling. You’ll taste your products alongside a selection of French cheeses and wines, carefully paired to enhance the flavors. Several reviews highlight how delicious the cheese and wine pairing is, with many noting that the cheese was some of the best they’ve ever tasted. The experience ends with friendly conversations about pairing tips and French culinary traditions, making it feel more like sharing a convivial moment than just a class.

The Small-Group Dynamic

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is its small-group size. With a maximum of 10 people, it feels more like a cozy gathering than a big class. This setup means you get plenty of attention from the guide, ask questions freely, and really get involved in the process. Many reviews mention how this intimacy made the experience special, with guests feeling more like friends sharing a fun activity than students in a crowded workshop.

This also means that everyone gets a turn to participate actively—kneading cheese, shaping it, or making butter. The instructor, often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, ensures everyone is engaged and learns something new, regardless of previous cooking skills.

The Quality of the Tasting Experience

The cheese and wine tasting at the end is often highlighted as a highlight. You get to sample a variety of cheeses, some paired with bread, and sip French wines. Reviewers rave about the quality—calling it “fantastic,” “delicious,” and “some of the best cheese and wine” they’ve had in Paris. It’s an authentic tasting that complements the hands-on activity, making the experience well-rounded.

The pairing tips shared by guides are practical and insightful, helping you understand how to match cheeses with different types of wine, which can be handy for future wine-and-cheese nights back home. Several guests appreciate that they leave with not just memories but also new knowledge about flavor combinations.

The Price & Overall Value

At $81.28 per person, this workshop offers a lot—especially considering the interactive nature, the quality of instruction, and the tasting. Reviewers universally agree that it’s worth the money, describing it as “excellent value” for an experience that’s both educational and very enjoyable.

Given that some reviews mention making cheese and butter at home afterward, this workshop isn’t just about tasting—it’s about learning skills that last. Plus, it’s a far cry from the typical tourist experience; you’re actively doing rather than just observing.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This workshop is best suited for food lovers, curious travelers, and those who enjoy hands-on activities. If you’re interested in learning about French cheese, want a fun activity that’s different from just sightseeing, or are traveling with someone who appreciates good wine and cheese, this will hit the spot.

It might not be ideal if you’re looking for a long, leisurely experience or if you have strict dietary restrictions, as the focus is on cheese and dairy-based products. But for a quick, engaging, and tasty Parisian activity, it’s a winner.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically advertised as family-friendly, the activity involves making cheese and butter, which can be interesting for older kids. However, since the focus is on tasting and crafting, it’s best for children who can participate actively and stay engaged for two hours.

Do I need any prior knowledge of cheese making?
No, the guides are known for explaining the process simply and clearly, making it accessible to everyone, even beginners.

Are there morning departure options?
Yes, the workshop offers a choice of morning start times, which makes it flexible to fit into your Paris itinerary.

Is transportation included?
No, there is no pick-up or drop-off service. You simply meet at the cheese shop, which is conveniently located near public transportation.

How long does the experience last?
It’s approximately 2 hours long—perfect for fitting into a busy day without it feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
All ingredients and supplies to make cheese and butter, plus tastings of cheese and French wine.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Less notice means no refund.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting a little cheesy or buttery—aprons are typically provided.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, up to 10 people, which helps keep the experience personal and engaging.

Wrapping It Up

If you’re after a fun, educational, and delicious activity in Paris, this cheesemaking workshop ticks all the boxes. It’s a chance to see behind the scenes of how France’s beloved cheeses are made, learn from passionate guides, and take home some new skills—and perhaps a new appreciation for cheese.

The intimate setting and quality tastings make it stand out from more generic food tours. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, you’ll find this experience offers genuine value—and plenty of good stories to bring back home.

For lovers of cheese, wine, or hands-on cultural experiences, this workshop is definitely worth considering. Just arrive ready to get a little cheesy, learn a lot, and enjoy some of the tastiest bites Paris has to offer.

Happy cheese tasting, and bon voyage!