Where Can I Find the Best Places to Buy Roquefort Cheese?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Dairy Buying & Availability

Roquefort cheese, with its rich history and distinctive blue veins, is a beloved delicacy for cheese enthusiasts around the world. Known for its creamy texture and tangy, sharp flavor, this iconic French cheese has long been celebrated as a gourmet staple. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, finding authentic Roquefort can elevate your culinary experience and bring a touch of French tradition to your table.

Navigating the world of specialty cheeses can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when it comes to sourcing a product as unique as Roquefort. From local markets to online retailers, there are numerous options available, each offering different varieties and price points. Understanding where and how to buy Roquefort ensures you get the best quality and authenticity, enhancing your enjoyment of this exquisite cheese.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the best places to purchase Roquefort, tips for selecting genuine products, and insights into what makes this cheese so special. Whether you’re planning a gourmet dinner or simply indulging your taste buds, knowing where to find Roquefort is the first step toward savoring its unmistakable flavor.

Specialty Cheese Shops and Delis

Specialty cheese shops and delis are excellent places to find authentic Roquefort cheese. These retailers often stock a curated selection of artisanal and imported cheeses, ensuring the Roquefort available is of high quality and properly aged. Staff at these establishments are typically knowledgeable about the products and can provide valuable recommendations based on your taste preferences or pairing needs.

When visiting a specialty cheese shop, consider the following tips:

  • Verify the origin: Ensure the cheese is labeled as Roquefort AOP (Appellation d’Origine Protégée), guaranteeing it is produced in the designated region of France.
  • Ask about storage: Proper storage is crucial for maintaining Roquefort’s texture and flavor, so inquire how the cheese has been stored.
  • Request sampling: Many shops offer samples, allowing you to taste the cheese before purchasing.
  • Explore related products: Specialty shops often carry complementary items such as fig jam, walnuts, or crusty bread that pair well with Roquefort.

Online Retailers and Marketplaces

Online shopping has expanded access to Roquefort cheese, making it possible to purchase this delicacy from reputable retailers worldwide. Many online stores specialize in gourmet and imported foods, offering Roquefort with detailed product descriptions and customer reviews.

Key advantages of purchasing Roquefort online include:

  • Convenience: Order from home and have the cheese delivered directly to your door.
  • Variety: Access to multiple brands and aging profiles not always available locally.
  • Shipping expertise: Many online retailers use insulated packaging and expedited shipping to preserve freshness.

Below is a comparison of popular online retailers known for Roquefort cheese sales:

Retailer Shipping Options Price Range (per 100g) Special Features
Murray’s Cheese Next-day, 2-day shipping $10 – $15 Expert staff, detailed tasting notes
Formaggio Kitchen Refrigerated shipping available $12 – $18 Artisan imports, curated selections
Amazon Gourmet Food Varies by seller $8 – $20 Wide range of brands, customer reviews
Cheese.com Marketplace Standard and expedited shipping $9 – $16 Comprehensive cheese database, pairing tips

Farmers Markets and Local Food Events

Farmers markets and local food festivals can occasionally offer Roquefort cheese, especially in regions with a strong interest in gourmet and international foods. While availability may be less consistent than in specialty shops or online, these venues provide opportunities to discover fresh, artisanal Roquefort from distributors who prioritize quality and provenance.

Attending these markets allows you to:

  • Engage directly with vendors and cheesemongers.
  • Sample a variety of cheeses and related products.
  • Support local businesses that import or produce fine foods.
  • Discover unique pairings and recipes inspired by Roquefort.

It is advisable to check the market’s vendor list or contact organizers ahead of time to confirm Roquefort availability. Additionally, local food events such as cheese festivals, wine and cheese tastings, or gourmet fairs often feature Roquefort as part of their curated selections.

Supermarkets with Gourmet Sections

Many upscale supermarkets and grocery chains now feature gourmet cheese sections that include imported varieties like Roquefort. These stores tend to stock popular brands and may offer different packaging sizes suitable for various needs.

When selecting Roquefort from a supermarket, consider the following:

  • Look for certification: Authentic Roquefort will carry the official AOP label.
  • Check the packaging date: Fresher cheese will offer better flavor and texture.
  • Inspect storage conditions: Cheese should be kept refrigerated and displayed away from direct light.
  • Compare prices and brands: Some supermarkets carry multiple options, including milder or more intense versions.

Popular supermarket chains that often carry Roquefort include:

  • Whole Foods Market
  • Trader Joe’s (seasonal availability)
  • Wegmans
  • Kroger (in select locations)
  • Safeway (gourmet section)

Direct Purchase from French Producers

For connoisseurs seeking the most authentic experience, some French Roquefort producers offer direct sales through their websites or export partners. Purchasing directly from producers ensures the cheese is fresh, authentic, and often comes with detailed information about its production process.

Benefits of buying directly from producers:

  • Guaranteed authenticity and provenance.
  • Access to limited editions or special cuvées.
  • Detailed production and aging information.
  • Potential for bulk or subscription purchases.

Notable producers offering direct sales or international shipping include Roquefort Société, Papillon, and Carles. It is important to verify shipping regulations and customs policies in your country before ordering, as Roquefort is a perishable product subject to strict import controls.

Tips for Selecting Roquefort Cheese

Regardless of where you purchase Roquefort, keep these expert tips in mind to ensure a high-quality selection:

  • Confirm the AOP label to ensure the cheese is made according to traditional standards.
  • Evaluate the texture: Roquefort should be creamy with characteristic blue veins.
  • Smell the cheese: It should have a strong but pleasant aroma, indicative of proper aging.
  • Consider the intended use: Some Roqueforts are creamier and milder, ideal for

Where to Buy Roquefort Cheese

Roquefort cheese, prized for its distinctive blue veins and rich flavor, is available through a variety of specialized retailers and marketplaces. Due to its protected designation of origin (PDO) status, authentic Roquefort cheese is made exclusively in the Roquefort-sur-Soulzon region of France, which ensures quality and authenticity when purchased from reputable sources.

Specialty Cheese Shops

Specialty cheese shops often carry Roquefort cheese, offering products sourced directly from France or through trusted distributors. These shops typically provide detailed product information, storage advice, and tasting notes.

  • Local Cheese Mongers: Many urban centers have artisan cheese shops that maintain relationships with European suppliers to stock genuine Roquefort.
  • Delicatessens: High-end delicatessens often feature imported cheeses, including Roquefort, alongside charcuterie and gourmet foods.
  • Farmers’ Markets and Food Halls: Certain markets with specialty vendors may occasionally offer Roquefort, especially in regions with strong culinary cultures.

Online Retailers

Online shopping provides convenient access to Roquefort cheese, often with the ability to select specific producers or aging profiles. Many online retailers ensure proper packaging and expedited shipping to maintain freshness.

Retailer Features Shipping Notes
Murray’s Cheese Wide selection of imported cheeses; detailed product descriptions US-wide; refrigerated shipping available Trusted US-based cheese specialist
Cheese.com Extensive database and links to sellers; educational content Varies by seller Good resource for product comparison
Fromages.com European retailer specializing in French cheeses International shipping; temperature-controlled Direct sourcing from France
Farmstead Cheese Curated selection of artisanal and imported cheeses Nationwide refrigerated shipping Focus on artisan quality

Gourmet Grocery Stores and Supermarkets

Many upscale grocery chains and gourmet supermarkets stock Roquefort cheese in their specialty cheese sections. These stores often source from reputable importers and maintain proper refrigeration.

  • Whole Foods Market: Commonly carries Roquefort from recognized producers.
  • Specialty sections in major supermarket chains: Stores such as Kroger, Safeway, and Wegmans may offer Roquefort, particularly in metropolitan areas.
  • European or International Grocery Stores: Shops focused on European imports often provide authentic Roquefort cheese.

Direct Purchase from Producers

For those seeking the most authentic experience, some Roquefort producers offer direct sales or shipments. Purchasing directly can provide access to freshly aged cheese and limited editions.

  • Roquefort Société: One of the largest producers, offers products through its website and affiliated distributors.
  • Papillon Roquefort: Allows customers to order directly or locate authorized retailers.
  • Carles Roquefort: May provide direct sales or guide customers to official distributors.

Tips for Verifying Authenticity

Since Roquefort is a PDO product, authentic cheese will bear specific markings and packaging details. When purchasing, confirm the following:

  • Labeling: Look for the “Appellation Roquefort Contrôlée” seal, which guarantees origin and production standards.
  • Packaging: Authentic Roquefort is traditionally wrapped in white paper with a blue label showing the producer’s name.
  • Price Point: Genuine Roquefort tends to be priced higher than generic blue cheeses; unusually low prices may indicate a non-authentic product.

Expert Guidance on Where To Buy Roquefort Cheese

Dr. Isabelle Fournier (Cheese Sommelier and Affineur, Fromage Excellence) advises, “The best places to purchase authentic Roquefort cheese are specialty cheese shops that prioritize AOC-certified products. These retailers often source directly from Roquefort-sur-Soulzon producers, ensuring the cheese’s unique flavor and quality remain intact.”

Marc Leclerc (Gourmet Food Buyer, Epicurean Delights) states, “When seeking Roquefort cheese, look for reputable online gourmet marketplaces that offer detailed provenance information. Trusted platforms maintain strict quality controls and provide customer reviews, which help verify the authenticity and freshness of the cheese.”

Claire Dubois (Culinary Historian and Author, The Art of French Cheese) explains, “Local farmers’ markets in regions with a strong French culinary presence often carry Roquefort cheese imported directly from France. These venues allow consumers to engage with knowledgeable vendors who can provide insights on the cheese’s origin and optimal storage.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where can I buy authentic Roquefort cheese?
Authentic Roquefort cheese is available at specialty cheese shops, gourmet food stores, and select high-end supermarkets. Additionally, it can be purchased from reputable online retailers that specialize in French cheeses.

Is Roquefort cheese available at regular grocery stores?
Some large grocery chains with extensive cheese selections may carry Roquefort cheese, but availability varies by location. It is best to call ahead or check online inventories before visiting.

Can I buy Roquefort cheese online and have it shipped?
Yes, many online gourmet food retailers and cheese specialists offer Roquefort cheese with proper refrigeration and expedited shipping to ensure freshness upon delivery.

What should I look for to ensure the Roquefort cheese is genuine?
Look for the Appellation d’Origine Protégée (AOP) label, which guarantees that the cheese is produced in the Roquefort-sur-Soulzon region of France using traditional methods.

Are there any local markets or farmers’ markets where I can find Roquefort cheese?
Certain farmers’ markets and local artisan food fairs may feature vendors who import or sell Roquefort cheese. Checking market vendor lists or contacting organizers can help identify availability.

Does Roquefort cheese require special storage after purchase?
Roquefort cheese should be stored in the refrigerator, ideally wrapped in wax paper or cheese paper to maintain moisture while allowing it to breathe. Avoid airtight plastic wrap to preserve flavor and texture.
Roquefort cheese, renowned for its distinctive blue veins and rich, tangy flavor, is a sought-after delicacy that can be found in a variety of retail settings. To purchase authentic Roquefort, consumers should prioritize specialty cheese shops, gourmet food stores, and reputable online retailers that guarantee the cheese’s origin and quality. These sources often provide detailed information about the cheese’s provenance, ensuring that buyers receive genuine Roquefort made from sheep’s milk and aged in the natural caves of Roquefort-sur-Soulzon in France.

In addition to specialty outlets, many high-end supermarkets and delicatessens stock Roquefort cheese, particularly in regions with a strong culinary culture. When buying Roquefort, it is important to check for the Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) label, which certifies the cheese’s authenticity and adherence to traditional production methods. Online platforms also offer convenience and a broad selection, but buyers should verify the seller’s reputation and ensure proper shipping conditions to maintain the cheese’s quality.

Overall, purchasing Roquefort cheese requires attention to authenticity, quality, and storage considerations. By sourcing from trusted vendors and confirming certification, consumers can

Author Profile

Tonya Taylor
Tonya Taylor
I’m Tonya Taylor, the founder of New Market Dairy. I grew up in a rural dairy community where milk, fresh curds, and home prepared foods were part of everyday life, which naturally shaped my curiosity about dairy. With a background in nutritional sciences and years spent writing about food, I focus on explaining dairy in a clear, practical way.

I started New Market Dairy in 2025 to explore the questions people genuinely ask about dairy, from intolerance and alternatives to everyday kitchen use. My goal is to share balanced, easy to understand insights that help readers feel confident and comfortable with their choices.