Since 2009, Gourmet Selection has had the good sense to bring together a rich and diverse sector – producers, manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and local shopkeepers – to offer the largest showcase of fine grocery products. A major tricolor fair for quality grocery, Gourmet Selection is the must-attend event to explore today’s and tomorrow’s trends, both locally and internationally. Over two days, more than 300 exhibitors and 5,300 professional visitors come together to

In this new episode of our podcast, Philippe Juglar, President of AVPA, takes us to the heart of the history of coffee in Europe and the first competitions organized by our agency. With passion and clarity, he shares our unique approach: “giving everyone the opportunity to be heard”, whether they are producers, judges, or coffee enthusiasts. Philippe also explains how we select our juries to ensure evaluations that are both fair and rigorous, highlighting our commitment to qu

When a vanilla variety captures the attention of an expert jury, an entire industry can reinvent itself. The story of São Tomé and Príncipe illustrates how recognition can become the starting point for international ambition In 2021, Juliette Dohar discovered the AVPA (Agency for the Valorization of Agricultural Products) and presented her organic vanilla production from São Tomé and Príncipe to a particularly demanding panel of experts. The award she received, a Gourmet Meda

On April 13th and 14th, AVPA – Agency for the Valorization of Agricultural Products had the pleasure of hosting the gastronomic jury sessions of the International World Edible Oils Contest , dedicated to olive oils. Over the course of these two days, four tasting sessions were conducted by oil specialist Paz Figares Mignot , in full accordance with the rigorous AVPA tasting protocol. Prior to these sessions, all samples submitted for the 2026 edition — more than 200 oils — un

On March 27 and 28, 2026, in Paris, a series of three sessions was held, entirely dedicated to one of the most fascinating—and most misunderstood—teas: Oriental Beauty. Organized by Anton Tourtier in collaboration with the Agency for the Valorization of Agricultural Products (AVPA) and the Tea and Beverage Research Station, this masterclass offered a rare approach: moving beyond storytelling to reach true understanding. A tea between myth and reality Oriental Beauty is one

Virginie Legrand is a self-taught chef with a unique journey. Twelve years ago, she chose to reinvent herself and left secondary education, where she passionately taught literature and German, to answer a more intimate call: the world of gastronomy. Driven by a deep culinary passion for over twenty years, Virginie now creates tailor-made gastronomic experiences for her clients. Each creation is conceived as a dialogue between their sensibilities, her creativity, and a strict

The sugar-free trend has become one of the most dynamic directions in contemporary gastronomy, embraced by chefs, chocolatiers, and producers who wish to innovate responsibly and reach a broader audience. Working without sugar is not just about reducing sweetness—it’s about mastering the texture, structure, and balance of recipes. Elena Kalmykova , pastry chef and consultant with five years of experience in Michelin-starred restaurants in Paris and a member of our Gastronomic

There’s something deliciously paradoxical about the way some European chocolatiers talk about cocoa: always with warmth, yet rarely without condescension. They speak of “ meeting the producers ,” of “ highlighting the terroirs ,” and, of course, of the “ social impact ” of their chocolate bars. Their words smell of vanilla, but their rhetoric leaves a faint aftertaste of colonial paternalism. These new missionaries of chocolate set off, linen shirts and tender smiles at the r

AVPA – Paris, october 30th, 2025 AVPA wishes to extend its sincere thanks to all participants who contributed to the success of this exclusive tasting event, dedicated to Levêlez chocolates — winners of the AVPA ‘Chocolats du Monde’ International Contest, Paris 2025. We would like to warmy thank Mrs Sylvia Guedez and her husband , who travelled all the way from Mexico , for the inspiring presentation of their exceptional creations. Their passion, craftsmanship, and commitm

In the tea industry, collaboration, knowledge exchange, and shared commitment to quality are essential for growth. The AVPA (Association...

This international distinction is much more than just a trophy: it reflects the quality of your production and the work of an entire team. It is therefore only natural to begin by thanking and including your employees and partners in this success. They are, in large part, the ones who made this achievement possible. Enhance your professional environment On a daily basis, you work closely with suppliers, banking partners, and local or regional institutions. All these players f

As part of the OFF day of the Paris Tea Festival, AVPA had the pleasure of hosting an exceptional tasting of Korean teas in its offices,...

Organized on the initiative of tea sommelier and festival founder María Kockmann, the Paris Tea Festival took place on June 14–15, 2025,...

During the exceptional Korean tea tasting organized as part of the OFF day of the Paris Tea Festival, AVPA formalized an important...

Tea festival Paris AVPA Competition winner

Conference at the Paris Tea Festival The global tea market is currently experiencing strong growth, driven by increasing demand for...

For over twenty years, the Agency for the Valorization of Agricultural Products – AVPA has been working to promote and recognize...

On May 21, 2025, AVPA was welcomed at the French Senate by Senator Marie-Pierre Monier for a tasting of the award-winning olive oils from...

During the tasting held at the French Senate on May 21, a rich and meaningful discussion took place between Senator Marie-Pierre Monier...

This Monday, June 16th, marks the end of the technical and gastronomic tastings for the fifth edition of our competition for...

When the City of Light Blends Tradition and Innovation Over a Cup of Tea Paris. A name that evokes art, taste, and cultural encounters....

From May 5 to 9, 2025, an exceptional workshop took place in Taiwan, entirely dedicated to exploring the aromas of the country’s teas....

The collaboration between AVPA and the Korean Tea Society began in October 2024, thanks to the initiative of Maria Kockmann, a member of...

Each year, the International Contest for Coffees Roasted at Origin, organized by AVPA, highlights producers from around the world whose...