A AOP terroir
Presentation
In Manigod, alpine landscapes, mountain meadows, and the expertise of farmers give rise to exceptional cheeses recognized by the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) label.
AOP: An Official Mark of Quality and Origin!
The AOP label guarantees the consumer that every stage of production—from milk production to cheese aging—takes place within the appellation's designated geographical area. It represents recognized expertise rooted in a specific region.
The concept of *terroir* is the cornerstone of Appellations of Origin; it is where the product’s uniqueness and distinctive character originate. Natural and human factors are inextricably linked, meaning the resulting product cannot be replicated outside its specific *terroir*.
Established in 1992, this mark offers protection throughout the European Union. Since 2009, it has replaced the AOC label, although the AOC remains an essential prerequisite for obtaining AOP status.
AOP specifications also help preserve the landscapes, mountain meadows, high-altitude pastures, and biodiversity that define the Aravis massif.
Would you like to taste flavors found nowhere else—flavors that make our cheeses truly exceptional?
In Manigod, we offer several cheeses bearing the AOP designation:
- Reblochon,
- Chevrotin,
- Abondance,
- La Manigodine.
Where can you buy our cheeses?
At Manigod farms
At the Paccard aging cellars
At the village bakery
At the grocery store in Bistrot Le Capitaine
At the Sherpa mini-market at Col de Merdassier
By choosing local AOP products, you also help sustain a thriving mountain agricultural sector—vital for maintaining the landscape and preserving the valley's natural heritage.
La Manigodine: A Manigod Exclusive product :
Produced exclusively in the Manigod valley, La Manigodine is an iconic cheese of the region. Its name pays tribute to the "Manigodines"—the women who traditionally made cheese on mountain farms.
Take some home to enjoy and share with friends or family!
Dairy AOPs are:
The guarantee of origin,
The economy of territories,
Naturalness and transparency,
Research,
Innovation and training,
The preservation of know-how and the environment,
The diversity of flavors.
In short, AOC = AOP:
Controlled Designation of Origin: C as Controlled by INAO,
Protected Designation of Origin: P as Protected by the European Union,
-> The PDO can only be issued by a double check of these two authorities.
