Crottin de Chavignol PDO Cheese

Description

Crottin de Chavignol PDO Cheese

About Crottin de Chavignol PDO

Crottin de Chavignol is a small, but perfectly formed, goats’ cheese. It comes from the Loire Valley in France and is a great example of the region’s cheese-making know-how. It has that lovely tangy, creamy flavour I always look for in a goats’ cheese, and it is defined by its Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) badge.

Crottin de Chavignol comes from the tiny village of Chavignol, tucked away in the heart of the Sancerre wine region. The landscape there is all rolling hills, chalky soils, and a gentle climate; just right for happy goats and for making cheeses with real character.

No one seems quite sure when Crottin first appeared, but it’s been a local favourite for generations. It shares some history with other Loire Valley cheeses, especially those from Sancerre, but what sets it apart is its petite size and the way it’s made.

Protected by PDO Tradition

Crottin de Chavignol received PDO status in 1996, meaning it can only be made in a specific area and must follow traditional methods. This means that only cheeses made in the right part of France, using the proper methods, can be called Crottin de Chavignol. It’s a way of keeping the cheese’s unique character alive and supporting the local cheesemakers who stick to these time-honoured ways.

Having a PDO status also means the cheesemakers can stand out from the crowd. It’s a real badge of honour, showing off their traditional skills and the authenticity of their cheese. It’s more than just the cheese; it helps keep the heritage of Chavignol alive and supports the local community.

Crottin de Chavignol PDO – Jen’s Tasting Notes

How to Serve and Pair Crottin de Chavignol

• Make sure you take it out of the fridge a good hour before you want to eat it so it can come up to room temperature.
• Classic pairings: What grows together goes together and the classic pairing for a Crottin is a crisp white from Sancerre. The Sauvignon Blanc’s citrus and mineral notes really bring out the cheese’s tang, and the flinty edge works beautifully with its creaminess.
• Something a little different: If you’re more of a red wine fan, a light Pinot Noir from the Loire is a good shout. The mild tannins and bright fruit lift the cheese’s creaminess without taking over the taste buds.
• On the plate: For something a bit special, try it with fresh figs, grapes, or pears; the sweetness is a lovely match for the tangy cheese.
• In the kitchen: I love to bake a Crottin in the oven and then eat it with roasted butternut squash!

Jen’s note: There’s some confusion as to how Crottin de Chavignol got its name… The name “Crottin” literally means dung, and some say it’s from its little round shape and the fact that it gets harder as it matures. But the word “Crot” is a small oil lamp which would have been used in the cellars of the winemakers in the area.

Buying Crottin de Chavignol PDO

• Brand or Producer: P. Jacquin & Fils
• Product name: Crottin de Chavignol PDO
• Milk: Goat
• Country: France
• Region: Chavignol
• Strength: Medium
• Vegetarian: No
• Suitable for pregnancy: No
• Allergens: MILK

Sizes and Prices

• Sold as a whole little cheese (approx. 80g), £3.95

Storage Advice

• Keep refrigerated
• Wrap in waxed paper or cling film
• Remove from the fridge before serving
• Consume within 10 to 14 days of opening

Delivery and Collection

• UK wide courier delivery
• Click and collect from our Pangbourne shop
• Free local delivery available for selected postcodes

Ingredients (Allergens are listed in capitals)

MILK, salt, starter cultures, rennet, mould cultures.