The journey through the Jura was highly informative into a field of which I had very little theoretical background knowledge on. From previous trips around the United States and France, I have seen firsthand the processes of making products for consumption (not to mention previous research on Louis Pasteur and perpetual Food Network watching). What distinguished the journey from any past experiences was the level of authenticity and community throughout the region.
During the field visits, meeting directly with food producers for cheeses and wines, one of the common ideals was locality. One did not sense the type of commercialized tourism that can be seen in other parts, even in France (the Champagne region for instance). By meeting directly with the visitors, the producers are able to engage in a way that larger businesses are unable to. This connection adds to the value of what is being produced – we can see and experience, something which is intricate, original, fresh, and dutifully reflects the pride of the region.
The other aspect to take away was the sense of community within the region. Not unlike any small town, everyone knows one another and this is extended beyond mere friendships as the individuals were certainly more willing in consuming products of which their friend produces. There is the peace of mind in knowing where each item comes from within the terroir.
During the field visits, meeting directly with food producers for cheeses and wines, one of the common ideals was locality. One did not sense the type of commercialized tourism that can be seen in other parts, even in France (the Champagne region for instance). By meeting directly with the visitors, the producers are able to engage in a way that larger businesses are unable to. This connection adds to the value of what is being produced – we can see and experience, something which is intricate, original, fresh, and dutifully reflects the pride of the region.
The other aspect to take away was the sense of community within the region. Not unlike any small town, everyone knows one another and this is extended beyond mere friendships as the individuals were certainly more willing in consuming products of which their friend produces. There is the peace of mind in knowing where each item comes from within the terroir.