#Japan #Tokyo #Croissant Francais #Maison Landemaine #AOP Butter

Maison Landemaine Japan's Croissant Francais Triumphs at the Japan Food Selection

Maison Landemaine Japan, based in the Minato Ward of Tokyo, proudly announces that its acclaimed product, the "Croissant Francais," has been awarded the Grand Prize at the Japan Food Selection, organized by the Japan Food Analyst Association in July 2025.

This croissant is a unique fusion of artisan techniques and high-quality ingredients, created with AOP-certified Montguy butter from France. The butter's rich aroma and the croissant's 12-layered structure offer a delightful texture that truly embodies the essence of butter's flavors.

Understanding the Japan Food Selection

The Japan Food Selection is Japan's first food evaluation system, orchestrated by the Japan Food Analyst Association. This rigorous assessment process is carried out by food professionals who evaluate products based on the palates and preferences of the Japanese people. For more information, visit Japan Food Selection.

The Croissant Francais Explained

The "Croissant Francais" originates from the bakery-patisserie, Maison Landemaine, which was established in Paris. It is made with a distinctive method and flavor profile that sets it apart from other croissants.

Features of the Croissant Francais

One of the standout ingredients is the AOP Montguy butter, sourced from the Charente-Poitou region in France. This butter is known for its aromatic, rich taste. AOP (Appellation d’Origine Protégée) certification indicates a high standard regarding the origin, method of production, and quality of agricultural products.

Manufacturing Process of AOP Montguy Butter

This butter is crafted from cream that has undergone low-temperature pasteurization. After introducing lactic acid bacteria, the cream is fermented for a minimum of 12 hours at temperatures between 9 and 15 °C. The Montguy butter undergoes a unique process, where fermentation lasts over 48 hours, imparting an unrivaled taste and fragrance to the completed product.

Characteristics of the Charente-Poitou Region

Located in the western central part of France, the Charente-Poitou region comprises five departments and surrounding municipalities. The region's limestone-rich soil and temperate climate along the Atlantic coast contribute to the growth of excellent pastures, allowing for superior quality milk, from which the butter is made.

Why Choose AOP Montguy Butter?

AOP certification protects the agricultural origins, production methods, and quality, making it a testament to the terroir. The carefully selected ingredients enhance the deep flavors and lingering aromas of the Croissant Francais. The incorporation of Montguy butter, recognized for its strong scent, allows the layers of the croissant to resonate with its flavors.

Unique 12-layer Structure with Live Yeast Fermentation

Unlike traditional croissants, the Croissant Francais features a reduced number of layers, ensuring a direct expression of the buttery aroma. With a delicately crispy exterior and a moist, soft interior, its flavor and texture are strikingly pronounced.

The croissant is made using high-level artisan techniques, requiring skilled handling of live yeast for freshness. The result is a unique flavor profile and texture that is hard to replicate.

Development Story

The history behind Maison Landemaine comes from the collaboration between baker Yoshimi Ishikawa and pastry chef Rodolphe Landemaine. Combining techniques for bread fermentation and pastry layers, they meticulously crafted the Croissant Francais, focusing on structure, time, and aroma.

Naming and Product Variety

The name "Croissant Francais" directly expresses the use of French AOP fermented butter. It is available alongside "Croissant Japonais," which uses domestically sourced butter, allowing customers to experience contrasting flavors and textures.

Recommended Pairings

At the Azabudai flagship store, customers enjoy pairing the Croissant Francais with café latte and Canelé, a classic combo. Alternatively, one can indulge in traditional French-style, lightly dipping the croissant into the café latte.

Canelé and Homemade Confitures

The Canelé, also from Maison Landemaine with its distinctive texture, received the Grand Prize at the Japan Food Selection in January 2024. Furthermore, the homemade confitures offered at the store beautifully complement the Croissant Francais. These fruit preserves harmonize with the fragrant butter, creating a rich tasting experience.

Product Information

• - Product Name: Croissant Francais
• - Price: 610 JPY (tax incl.)
• - Features: AOP Montguy butter, Live yeast, 12-layer folding
• - Points of Sale: Azabudai Store, Atre Ebisu Store, Isetan Shinjuku Store, and Online Store

Maison Landemaine was founded in 2007 in Paris and currently has about 30 outlets in the city and three in Japan. They are dedicated to crafting handmade products that reflect the “artisan's belief.”

For more details about their offerings, visit their official website.