Mustard ranks as America's second most popular spice, right behind peppercorns. At Clipperton we take pride in bringing authentic French gourmet mustard to North American tables. Americans consume significant quantities of mustard each year, and as dedicated French gourmet mustard importers we have watched that passion grow first-hand.
This beloved condiment offers more than bold flavor. It is a versatile addition to any meal, and each teaspoon contains just five calories. Clipperton connects customers across Canada and the United States with the finest French mustard brands and gourmet varieties. Industry estimates suggest that hundreds of millions of pounds of mustard are consumed worldwide every year, and we make sure North American tables get the most authentic, highest-quality options from France's celebrated mustard tradition.
The legacy of French gourmet mustard
French mustard has a history spanning more than 1,500 years. The Romans brought this versatile condiment to French soil, and every jar we import carries a piece of that heritage.
Origins of French mustard culture
Ancient civilizations knew the value of mustard. Chinese, Greek and Roman cultures used mustard seeds long before the tradition reached France. During the Middle Ages, French monasteries became vital centers of mustard refinement: monks at the Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés began experimenting with mustard pastes in the 10th century. In 1390 the French government recognized the condiment's importance by issuing the first rules for mustard making, stating that it should contain only "good seed and suitable vinegar".
French royalty helped elevate mustard's status. Louis XI carried his personal mustard pot when visiting friends, and Charlemagne hired monks to grow and grind mustard seeds just for him. The condiment became so prestigious that Pope John XXII of Avignon created a special role, the grand moutardier du pape, or mustard-maker to the pope.
Why Dijon became the mustard capital
Dijon's story as France's mustard capital began in the 13th century. The city's reputation reached new heights under the Dukes of Burgundy, who served mustard at royal feasts. Historical accounts describe mustard being served in exceptionally large quantities at Burgundian banquets, a sign of how much the nobility loved it.
The real turning point came in 1856, when Jean Naigeon replaced vinegar with verjuice (the juice of unripe grapes). This innovation created the distinctive flavor that people still associate with Dijon mustard today. The name "Dijon" now refers to a method rather than a place, since most Dijon mustard is no longer made in the city itself.
How French mustard differs from the rest
French mustard stands apart from other varieties around the world. French producers use brown or black mustard seeds instead of white ones, which creates deeper flavor, and they use wine rather than plain vinegar, adding complexity and regional character.
You will also find different textures. Traditional moutarde à l'ancienne keeps some seeds partially whole, giving a rustic look and bursts of flavor, while smooth, sifted mustards are better suited to everyday use.
At Clipperton we select the best French mustard varieties to bring to Canada and the United States. Our customers can experience everything from classic Dijon to rustic whole-grain mustards, each one carrying centuries of French culinary heritage.
Clipperton: a trusted French mustard importer
Clipperton bridges the gap between French craftsmanship and North American tastes. We proudly represent authentic French culinary traditions, and our role goes beyond importing: we build lasting connections between artisanal French producers and food lovers throughout Canada and the United States.
Who we are and what we do
Clipperton Imports Inc. brings exceptional gourmet products straight from France to your table. We specialize in premium mustards, oils, vinegars, spices, chocolates and jams, carefully selecting collections that showcase French gastronomic excellence. Food enthusiasts can now discover these culinary treasures through our online store without crossing the Atlantic.
Our role in importing to Canada and the US
French mustard traditions deserve a place on North American tables. We handle the complex import regulations so that authentic products arrive smoothly. This connection matters all the more because popular brands such as Maille, Canada's second-best-selling mustard, use Canadian mustard seeds yet keep their production in France to stay true to tradition.
Commitment to quality and authenticity
Quality drives everything we do. We work with manufacturers that hold recognized certifications such as IFS (International Food Standard), and our partnerships favor producers who stick to traditional stone-milling techniques and natural fermentation. This dedication gives our customers mustards that meet centuries-old French standards without compromising on quality or authenticity.
Working with artisan producers in France
Our carefully chosen French artisan partners include:
- Domaine des Terres Rouges – Created in 1995 in Turenne, in the Corrèze, this producer moved in 2015 to Mietesheim, in Alsace, where it joined Maison Alélor. It still uses traditional methods to create its unique grape must mustard: stone mills press the seeds through a careful process that keeps every natural aroma intact.
- Sauce Martin – Founded by three cousins with a love of French terroir, the company works with farmers from south-western France and follows strict ingredient-selection rules, including using only fully ripened fruit.
These partnerships help us bring authentic French mustard experiences into North American homes. We preserve traditions and support the independent artisans who keep French culinary heritage alive.
Popular types of French mustard we import
We carefully select exquisite French gourmet mustards so that our North American customers can enjoy their distinctive flavors.
Dijon mustard
Authentic Dijon has a smooth, creamy texture and a tangy, slightly spicy flavor from brown or black mustard seeds. Traditional recipes once called for verjuice, though most modern versions use white wine or vinegar.
Whole-grain mustard
Whole-grain mustard, or moutarde à l'ancienne, differs from smooth Dijon by keeping partially crushed seeds that give a delightful texture and a pronounced mustard bite. These grainy varieties add a pleasant crunch to sandwiches and salads.
Honey mustard
French honey mustards such as Sauce Martin's Californian honey mustard strike a perfect balance between sweetness and tang.
Flavored and fruit-infused varieties
French mustard artisans create inventive flavors including tarragon, fig, blackcurrant, truffle, cognac and walnut. The Domaine des Terres Rouges truffle mustard is true gourmet indulgence.
Organic and specialty mustards
Domaine des Terres Rouges also crafts organic mustards using just four ingredients: organic mustard seeds, water, vinegar and salt. These pure recipes appeal to customers who prefer clean labels without additives or preservatives.
Serving restaurants, retailers and foodservice
Clipperton brings authentic French gourmet mustard directly to professional kitchens across North America, from high-end bistros to specialty food retailers.
Supplying gourmet mustard to restaurants
Professional chefs value our French mustards as versatile ingredients that go well beyond a simple condiment. In the restaurant kitchen they thicken sauces, emulsify vinaigrettes and lift marinades. Chefs use them to create signature dipping sauces, elevate sandwiches and develop dressings that make a menu stand out.
Wholesale options for retailers
Our wholesale program brings premium French mustard brands to retailers. Specialty food shops, gourmet markets and upscale grocery chains benefit from flexible ordering options. Most first orders start with our most popular varieties, and we tailor assortments to regional preferences and store demographics.
Foodservice packaging and logistics
Professional kitchens can choose from many flavors in standard retail-ready jars. Products are typically shelf-stable at room temperature for several months, depending on the variety and storage conditions; refrigeration after opening preserves the best flavor and quality. Our logistics network delivers promptly to foodservice operations across Canada and the United States.
Support for chefs and culinary teams
We do more than supply product. Our consultation service helps you select the right mustard varieties for your menu, with guidance on pairings, recipe development and creative ways to showcase French mustard traditions in modern North American cuisine.
Conclusion
Clipperton proudly brings the centuries-old tradition, passion and craftsmanship of French gourmet mustard to North American tables. From its Roman introduction and medieval monasteries to Dijon's revolutionary technique, the heritage behind every jar is remarkable.
Our mission centers on authenticity. We choose producers who maintain traditional stone-milling and natural fermentation, so that each variety delivers a genuine French experience. Collaborations with distinguished artisans such as Domaine des Terres Rouges and Sauce Martin let us offer exceptional mustards of every kind, from smooth Dijon to rustic whole grain.
We also provide specialized support for restaurants, retailers and foodservice professionals seeking premium French products, with wholesale programs, professional packaging options and consultation services that help businesses add authentic French flavor to their offerings.
French mustard is far more than a simple condiment. It is a kitchen workhorse that thickens sauces, emulsifies dressings and enhances countless dishes with minimal calories. Its enduring popularity in North America comes from that balance of tradition and versatility. When you spread French mustard on a sandwich or whisk it into a vinaigrette, you are taking part in a culinary tradition more than 1,500 years old, one we at Clipperton are passionate about preserving and sharing.
Ready to taste the difference? Browse our full range of French gourmet mustards, from classic Dijon to truffle, fig and honey varieties, and bring a little Burgundy to your table.
