Ancient Origins: The roots of Brie cheese can be traced back to the Roman era, around the 1st century AD, when cheese-making techniques were introduced to the region. However, it was during the Middle Ages that Brie began to take its modern form.

Birthplace: Brie cheese gets its name from the historic region of Brie, located in northern France, near Paris. The lush pastures of Brie provided the ideal conditions for dairy farming and cheese production. It was in this fertile land that Brie cheese was born.

Royal Favor: Brie cheese gained popularity during the reign of King Charlemagne in the 8th century. He is said to have been a big fan of this creamy delicacy and even had it served at his court. This royal endorsement helped elevate Brie's reputation.

Development of Brie de Meaux and Brie de Melun: Over time, Brie cheese began to diversify into two main varieties, each named after the towns where they were produced: Brie de Meaux and Brie de Melun. Brie de Meaux, often referred to as the "King of Cheeses," was favored by French royalty. Meanwhile, Brie de Melun, which is smaller and has a stronger flavor, catered to a broader audience.

The French Revolution and Beyond: During the French Revolution in the late 18th century, many aristocratic dairies producing Brie cheese were destroyed or disbanded. However, the cheese-making traditions were preserved by local farmers, and Brie continued to be a staple of French cuisine.

Exportation: Brie cheese gained international recognition in the 19th century when it was exported to other countries, particularly to the United Kingdom. Its creamy texture and mild flavor made it a favorite among cheese connoisseurs worldwide.

Modern Era: In the 20th century, Brie cheese production became more industrialized, but artisanal methods and traditional recipes were still cherished by many producers. Brie became a symbol of French gastronomy and a versatile ingredient in both traditional and contemporary cuisine.

Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) Status: In 1980, both Brie de Meaux and Brie de Melun were granted AOC status (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée), which recognized and protected their geographical origins and traditional production methods.