Specialty Cheeses

Le Chevrot is a crottin- (krah-TAHN) style cheese, which describes a small, cylindrical cheese made from goat’s milk. Some say that the name, crottin, was derived from the small clay oil lamp used by goat herders to light their barns. Others claim that the name comes from the French word referring to a lump of dung, or the appearance the crottin takes on once it is very aged. Either way, Chevrot is much tastier than either of those anecdotes suggest.

One of the most striking characteristics of a crottin is its rind. This wrinkled, “brainy” exterior is the product of the fungus, Geotrichum candidum. When young, these “geo” goat cheeses (as they are sometimes nicknamed) have a dense, velvety-smooth texture and bone-white color. They display mild, fresh and lactic flavors. When aged longer, the texture becomes drier and more suitable for grating. These older versions have a darkened color and more intense flavor, often developing notes of caramel. The version we import is on the younger side, or what most American consumers are expecting from this style of cheese.

Sèvre & Belle still maintains many of the same practices used since their inception. Their cooperative is a collaboration of independent local farmers, and was created in the early 1900’s. All of their cheeses are hand-ladled into their forms, maintaining their intended texture and flavor profiles.

Both of our Chevrot offerings boast a similar flavor profile. Each has a dense, velvety core and flavors of grass, flint, mild notes of barnyard and hay and a lemony finish. Because of the speed at which it ripens, Mini Chevrot was created for the customer who prefers a drier texture. Chevrot makes a statement as a simple and elegant dessert served alongside roasted pears with cracked black pepper. It’s also delicious with a drizzle of orange blossom or lavender honey. Chenin Blanc or Sauvignon-based white wines (such as Sancerre) make for a complimentary pairing with Chevrot. If beer is more up your alley, choose a Helles lager, Gose or Saison ale.