Mothais Sur Feuille

Mothais sur Feuille is a traditional soft goat cheese with a natural rind, originating from the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of France. Its unique refinement on a chestnut or plane tree leaf gives it a supple, creamy texture and delicate flavor. This artisan cheese, crafted from raw goat’s milk, has a rich history and continues to be celebrated for its rustic charm and gastronomic excellence.

Detailed Information:

• History:
  Goat farming in the Poitou region dates back to the Neolithic era, providing sustenance for rural families. Mothais sur Feuille, traditionally made for self-consumption, gained popularity in the 19th century as farmers began selling it in local markets. By the mid-19th century, cheese from Mothe-St-Héray had earned a stellar reputation. The phylloxera crisis in the vineyards further boosted goat milk production. Though cooperative dairies led to a decline in artisanal production in the 20th century, a resurgence began in the 1970s, with both farmers and artisans ensuring the preservation of this regional specialty.

• Fabrication:
  Mothais sur Feuille is crafted from fresh, raw goat milk using a slow curdling process. The cheese is refined on a chestnut or plane tree leaf, which absorbs moisture, contributing to its creamy texture and fine rind. This method also imparts subtle earthy flavors to the cheese. Each wheel is disk-shaped, measuring 10–12 cm in diameter and 2–3 cm in height, and matures over 1 to 3 weeks.

• Flavor Profile:

  • Appearance: Pleated natural rind with a creamy layer beneath, resting on a chestnut or plane tree leaf.
  • Texture: Fondant and creamy, melting in the mouth.
  • Aroma: Subtle yeast notes with hints of earthiness from the leaf.
  • Taste: Sweet with a slight tang, perfectly balanced for a delicate flavor experience.

• Tasting Advice:
  Perfect as part of a cheese board, Mothais sur Feuille pairs wonderfully with dried fruits and nuts, complementing its creamy texture and slight tang.

• Wine Pairing:
  Best enjoyed with Rosé d’Anjou or a white Pouilly Fumé, whose bright acidity balances the cheese's sweetness and creamy profile.

• General Characteristics:

  • Production Place: Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France
  • Maturation: 1 to 3 weeks
  • Shelf Life: 21 days
  • Storage Temperature: Between +4°C and +12°C
  • Weight: 220g

Nutrition Facts (per 100g):

• Type of Milk: Raw goat’s milk
• Fat Content: 19% total weight; 14.42% saturated fatty acids
• Energy Value: 288 kcal / 1200 kJ
• Protein: 18.4g
• Carbohydrate: 1.19g

Microbiological Standards:

• Listeria and Salmonella: None in 25g
• Enterobacteria: <10 ufc/ml
• Free from preservatives, color additives, and GMOs.

Who is Les Frères Marchand?

Les Frères Marchand, masters of French cheesemaking, are committed to preserving regional specialties like Mothais sur Feuille. By combining tradition with artisan expertise, they ensure this cheese embodies the rich heritage and culinary excellence of Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Their passion for quality and authenticity shines through in every wheel of Mothais sur Feuille.

Storage and Usage Instructions:

Store between +4°C and +12°C for optimal quality. Allow the cheese to come to room temperature before serving to fully appreciate its creamy texture and subtle flavors. Serve with dried fruits or nuts and a glass of Rosé d’Anjou for a perfect pairing.