St. Maure

St. Maure

• Country: France
• Region: Loire Valley
• Flavour: Lemony, acidic with fresh hay notes
• Type of Milk: Goat's milk
• Pasteurisation: Varies
• Vegetarian Rennet: Yes
• Organic: Varies by producer

Overview:

St. Maure is a classic French goat's milk cheese from the Loire Valley, easily recognized by the rye straw running through the centre of the cheese, which is then coated in ash and salt. This delicate cheese has a fresh, grassy aroma with a lively lemony acidity that becomes more pronounced with age. As it matures, the texture becomes firmer and more flaky, developing an even more complex flavour profile. St. Maure is perfect for those who enjoy fresh and slightly tangy cheeses with a distinctive appearance and a refreshing taste.

History & Background:

St. Maure has been produced in the Loire Valley for centuries, named after the town of Saint-Maure-de-Touraine. The cheese originally gained popularity because of its unique shape and the tradition of using rye straw to help it maintain its form during the aging process. The practice of covering it in ash and salt not only helps with preservation but also adds to the distinct flavour profile of the cheese.

Cheesemaking Process:

• Milk Source: Made with fresh goat's milk, typically from local French goats in the Loire Valley.
• Moulding: The cheese is shaped into a log and then impaled with a straw running through its centre. The cheese is then dusted with ash and salt, which enhances both the flavour and texture.
• Aging: Typically aged for 3 to 4 weeks, though it becomes firmer and flakier with age.
• Texture: When fresh, St. Maure has a smooth, creamy texture with a slightly crumbly texture as it matures.

Taste & Texture:

• Flavour:
  • Fresh St. Maure has a bright, lemony acidity with a subtle grassiness, reminiscent of fresh hay.
  • As the cheese matures, the flavour becomes more intense, with earthier and nuttier tones emerging. The acidity mellows slightly, allowing the complexity of the cheese to shine through.
• Texture:
  • The cheese has a smooth and creamy texture when young, becoming firmer and flakier as it ages. The rye straw running through it provides a unique structural element and helps the cheese maintain its shape.

Pairing Recommendations:

• Savoury Pairings:
  • Pair with crusty baguette or thin crackers to balance its acidity.
  • St. Maure also works well with fresh salads featuring herbs and green vegetables, or with grilled vegetables like zucchini and peppers.
  • Try it with charcuterie such as prosciutto or salami to enhance the flavour contrasts.
• Sweet Pairings:
  • Fresh fruits such as apples, pears, or grapes pair beautifully with the tangy, creamy nature of St. Maure.
  • A drizzle of honey or fig jam complements the acidity and smoothness of the cheese.
• Wine Pairings:
  • White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chablis complements the fresh, tangy notes.
  • Red Wine: A light red wine like Pinot Noir can enhance the mildness of the goat's milk and balance the acidity.
  • Cider: A dry apple cider works wonderfully with goat's milk cheese, adding a fresh, fruity note to the pairing.
• Beer Pairings:
  • Pale Ale or Wheat Beer pairs well with St. Maure, enhancing its fresh, grassy notes.

Culinary Uses:

• Cheese Boards: St. Maure is a standout addition to any cheese board, with its distinct appearance and fresh, tangy flavour. Serve alongside other goat's milk cheeses, fresh fruits, and nuts.
• Salads: Crumble over a green salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumber, or use in a beetroot salad with walnuts.
• Sandwiches: Spread on sourdough bread with fresh herbs or use as a filling for a baguette with roast vegetables.
• Tarts & Quiches: Use St. Maure in a goat cheese quiche or savory tart with caramelized onions and herbs.
• Pasta Dishes: Crumble over pasta with zucchini or tomatoes for a fresh, tangy twist.

Storage & Serving:

• Storage: Store St. Maure in cheese paper or wax paper in the fridge. To prevent it from drying out, place it in an airtight container.
• Serving Instructions: Allow the cheese to come to room temperature before serving to fully develop its flavours.

Conclusion:

St. Maure is a delightful goat's milk cheese with a fresh, tangy flavour that evolves beautifully with age. Its distinctive appearance and lemony acidity make it a perfect choice for those who enjoy fresh, vibrant cheeses. Whether served on a cheese board, paired with fresh fruit, or used in salads and sandwiches, St. Maure is a versatile and flavourful cheese that adds character to any dish.