Celebrating a Milestone in French Cheesemaking
In 1925, Roquefort became the first cheese to receive an Appellation d’Origine Protégée (AOP) in France, marking the beginning of a legacy that continues to define excellence in cheesemaking. A century later, this iconic blue cheese remains one of the most cherished symbols of French gastronomy, renowned for its unique character and artisanal craftsmanship.
At Interval, we take pride in working with the best in the business. Our partner, Maison Gabriel Coulet, has been crafting exceptional Roquefort for five generations. Their La Cave and La Petite Cave ranges embody the very essence of tradition, offering a refined taste experience for cheese lovers worldwide.
A Rich History Rooted in Tradition
Legend has it that the origins of Roquefort date back over a thousand years. According to folklore, a young shepherd left his bread and sheep’s milk cheese in the caves of Combalou, near Roquefort-sur-Soulzon, to follow a beautiful maiden. When he returned weeks later, the cheese had transformed, developing its distinctive blue veins. The result? The birth of Roquefort, the “King of Cheeses.”
Though the legend is romantic, the reality is just as fascinating. The natural caves of Roquefort-sur-Soulzon, with their unique humidity and ventilation, create the perfect environment for Penicillium roqueforti to develop, giving the cheese its unmistakable blue marbling and robust flavor.
Roquefort in Numbers: A Century of Excellence
Despite the challenges of modernization, Roquefort remains a cornerstone of French cheese production:
- 800 years of cheesemaking history in the region.
- 7 authorized producers, preserving the heritage of traditional Roquefort-making.
- 1,500 dairy farms supply raw milk exclusively from Lacaune sheep, the only breed allowed under AOP regulations.
- About 3,000 tons of Roquefort are produced annually, with exports reaching cheese lovers around the globe.
Maison Gabriel Coulet: The Art of Roquefort 
Among the elite producers, Maison Gabriel Coulet stands out as a true expert, crafting Roquefort with an unrivaled commitment to quality. Founded in 1872, this family-run fromagerie has perfected the aging process, ensuring each wheel develops the signature texture and bold, creamy flavor that defines exceptional Roquefort.
- La Cave Roquefort: A refined Roquefort, crafted with the utmost respect for tradition.
- La Petite Cave Roquefort: A premium selection, made from an even more rigorous selection process, offering an exquisite balance of complexity and finesse.
At Interval, we are honored to bring these remarkable cheeses to international markets, allowing cheese connoisseurs worldwide to experience the authentic taste of Roquefort.
A Century of AOP Protection: Looking to the Future
While Roquefort has proudly carried its AOP status for 100 years, the industry continues to evolve. Sustainability, innovation, and international appreciation are now at the heart of its future. With growing demand for authentic, high-quality cheeses, the dedication of artisans like Maison Gabriel Coulet ensures that Roquefort will continue to be a global benchmark for excellence.
Join Us in Celebrating 100 Years of Roquefort AOP!
Whether paired with a fine wine, enjoyed in a gourmet dish, or savored on its own, Roquefort remains an icon of French gastronomy. At Interval, we are proud to support its legacy and share the expertise of Maison Gabriel Coulet with cheese lovers worldwide.
🔗 Contact us to learn more about our exclusive selection of Roquefort and other fine cheeses.
