About Marin French Cheese Co.
Marin French Cheese Co. - America's oldest continually operating cheese company, still producing handcrafted cheese on its West Marin ranch since 1865.
Marin French Cheese Co. - The Oldest Continually Operating Cheese Company in America, Still Making History on a West Marin Ranch Since 1865
Some Marin destinations are worth a stop. Marin French Cheese Co. is worth planning the day around. Since 1865, the creamery has produced handcrafted cheese on the same ranch in Hicks Valley, using traditional methods and aging in the original hand-dug cellar.
One hundred and sixty years of continuous cheesemaking on one property places Marin French Cheese Co. in a category of its own - not just a great food stop, but a living institution in American agricultural history.
Born from the Gold Rush - A History as Remarkable as the Cheese
Founded in 1865 by Jefferson Thompson on a large dairy ranch in Hicks Valley, the creamery began as a practical answer to post-Gold-Rush food demand. Over time, it expanded from Breakfast Cheese into French-inspired styles including Brie, Camembert, Neufchatel, and Triple Creme.
The company later became known as Rouge et Noir before returning to the Marin French Cheese Co. name. Across ownership eras, one thing remained consistent: artisan, small-batch cheesemaking rooted in place.
The Cheese That Beat Europe
Marin French's Triple Creme Brie won Gold and Best of Show in the Brie category at the World Cheese Awards in London, becoming one of the landmark moments in U.S. artisan cheese history - and repeated that feat again in 2010.
Terroir and Craft - Why It Tastes Different
The creamery's philosophy centers on terroir: West Marin pasture, climate, milk quality, and patience in aging. The result is a full portfolio of soft-ripened cheeses that reflect local dairies and old-world technique.
The Ranch Experience - 425 Acres, Picnic Grounds, and Daily Tastings
Set on a 425-acre ranch, Marin French offers one of the most scenic picnic destinations in Marin County, with pond-side tables, rolling pasture views, and daily complimentary tastings.
The Shop, Cafe, and Cultural Life
The on-site shop carries the core cheese lineup plus accompaniments, while the cafe offers light fare. The property also hosts art activity and participates in regional artisan-cheese collaboration and events.
7510 Point Reyes-Petaluma Road, Petaluma, CA 94952 (707) 762-6001 cheesefactory@marinfrenchcheese.com marinfrenchcheese.com @MarinFrenchCheese on Instagram & Facebook
Open daily 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Free cheese samples daily 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Picnic grounds open daily Dogs welcome on-leash (not in the store) Retail shop, cafe, and art exhibitions on-site 11 miles northwest of Novato 11 miles southwest of Petaluma
Pro Tip: Arrive mid-morning for samples before lunch crowds, then build a full ranch picnic from the shop (Triple Creme Brie is essential) and take the long route through Hicks Valley for one of Marin's best agricultural drives.