Germain Crottin de Chavignol: Unpasteurized Goat's Cheese Delight
Discover the Elegance of Traditional French Cheesemaking
by Germain
Earliest delivery: November 10, 2025.
Or choose your delivery date during checkout.
Experience a taste of France with Germain’s Crottin de Chavignol, a traditional unpasteurized goat’s milk cheese hailing from the scenic Loire Valley. This unique cheese is celebrated for its exquisite taste and authentic cheesemaking heritage, making it a true delicacy for cheese aficionados.
Exceptional Heritage and Authenticity
Germain’s Crottin de Chavignol is a quintessential French cheese, protected under the Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) to guarantee its authenticity and traditional production. Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Loire Valley, the village of Chavignol has been the birthplace of this exquisite cheese for centuries, dating back to the 16th century.
Crafted from 100% Raw Goat’s Milk
Proudly produced from unpasteurized Alpine goat’s milk, the cheese exemplifies the commitment to traditional cheesemaking. The goats graze on the rich, diverse flora of the Loire Valley, imbuing their milk with a unique flavor profile that cannot be replicated outside this cherished region.
A Journey Through Texture and Flavor
Crottin de Chavignol undergoes a fascinating transformation as it ages. In its youth, it offers a creamy, semi-soft texture with a mild, tangy flavor—ideal for those who appreciate subtlety. Over time, it matures into a firmer, crumbly cheese with intensified notes of nut and earth, capturing the essence of the region’s distinct terroir.
A Sensory Delight
With its small cylindrical shape, a beautifully wrinkled rind, and ivory to bluish-white appearance, Crottin de Chavignol is a visual and gastronomic delight. Its aroma evolves from fresh and grassy in youth to earthier notes with age, creating an engaging experience with each taste.
Culinary Versatility
This cheese is not only a staple on gourmet cheese boards but also a versatile component in culinary creations. It can be served alongside rustic breads, fresh fruit, or nuts, or incorporated into salads, warm dishes, and classic French recipes such as Crottin de Chavignol en Croûte. Its ability to melt flawlessly makes it an excellent choice for topping roasted vegetables or enhancing savory pastries.
Perfect Pairings
Paired with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc from Sancerre, which shares its origins, Crottin de Chavignol’s flavors are beautifully complemented. For those who prefer reds, a light Pinot Noir or Gamay offers an understated elegance.
Cultural Significance
This cheese stands as a proud symbol of the Loire Valley’s rich gastronomic heritage, bringing together tradition, culture, and exceptional taste. Its recognition as a leading goat cheese extends beyond France, influencing cuisines worldwide and satisfying discerning palates in gourmet establishments around the globe.
Optimal Nutritional Benefits
Rich in protein, calcium, and essential vitamins like A and B12, Crottin de Chavignol is not only delicious but also offers notable nutritional benefits. Its low lactose content provides an added appeal to those with sensitivities to cow’s milk.
Food Safety and Quality Assurance
Emphasizing safety, Germain ensures meticulous adherence to AOC standards, with controlled production processes that maintain both the safety and the characteristic flavor of Crottin de Chavignol. While the use of raw milk provides a bold taste, it’s crucial for consumers to store and handle the cheese correctly to enjoy it at its best.
