Dijon Mustard Tradition
Dijon Mustard Tradition is one of the narrated stops on the self-guided Dijon audio walking tour in Gingerguide. Plan about ~45 min here. Press play at the spot for its two to three minute story, or ask the AI guide anything about it.
- Type market
- Suggested visit ~45 min
- Dijon Dijon guide
About Dijon Mustard Tradition
Dijon has been the mustard capital of the world since the 14th century, contrary to popular belief, authentic Dijon mustard is pale yellow (not bright yellow), made with verjuice from Burgundy grapes and ground black mustard seeds.
Dijon mustard is arguably the most famous condiment in the world, but it is widely misunderstood. "Dijon mustard" is a style of preparation, not a geographic appellation (the mustard seeds can come from anywhere, though traditionally from Burgundy), and authentic Dijon mustard is pale, creamy, and quite sharp in flavour, very different from the bright yellow American mustard that many non-French people associate with the name. The tradition of mustard-making in Dijon dates to at least the 14th century, when the Dukes of Burgundy first made it a prestige condiment, replacing the earlier tradition of using vinegar with the refinement of using verjuice, the acidic juice of unripe Burgundy grapes. The two great historic mustard houses are Maille (founded 1747, whose elegant boutique on the Rue de la Liberté serves mustard from barrels) and Grey Poupon (founded 1777, now owned by Kraft Heinz). Today, Dijon is the epicentre of a global condiment industry, and the city's relationship with mustard is celebrated in the Musée de la Moutarde et des Arts de la Table and in the Maille boutique, where over 30 varieties are available in wooden barrels for refilling.
Did you know? Dijon mustard is actually pale yellow, not bright yellow, the vivid yellow of American-style mustard comes from turmeric added as a colorant. Authentic Dijon mustard gets its pale colour from the white wine or verjuice used in its preparation.
How long should you spend at Dijon Mustard Tradition?
Plan about ~45 min at Dijon Mustard Tradition. That is enough to take it in and hear its narrated story; stay longer if it grabs you. The tour is self-guided, so there is no rush.
Is Dijon Mustard Tradition worth visiting?
Dijon Mustard Tradition is one of the 18 sights the Gingerguide team researched and narrated in Dijon, so it earns a place on a self-guided walk. Its story explains why it matters, and you can ask the AI guide anything the story leaves open.
Nearby stops in Dijon
Hear the story of Dijon Mustard Tradition
Preview the Dijon tour free in the Gingerguide app.