Petite Sainte-Maures – The Delicate Goat Cheese of Poitou-Charentes Petite Sainte-Maures is a refined lactic goat’s cheese from the Poitou-Charentes region of western France. Made from pasteurised goat’s milk and produced by Poitou Chèvre, it captures the subtle elegance of this historic cheesemaking area. Pale, gently crinkled, and delicately crumbly, it offers a beautifully restrained expression of fresh milk, tangy brightness, and French terroir.
Smaller and more tender than its cousin Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine, this version skips the traditional ash and straw but keeps all the finesse and complexity of a true regional classic.
Key Facts
Origin: Poitou-Charentes, France
Milk:Goat
Rennet Type:Animal rennet
Style: Lactic
Classification:Artisan
Shelf Life:7 - 10 days
Goes well with: Sauvignon Blanc including Sancerre, Chenin Blanc, dry Rosé
Similar cheeses: Sainte-Maure, Valençay, Holy Goat La Luna
Details
Heritage and Philosophy Petite Sainte-Maures is produced by Poitou Chèvre, an artisan fromagerie based near Bougon. The dairy continues a century-old legacy that began in 1906 with the Bougon dairy and Pastor Eynard, focusing on traditional goat cheeses of the region. Today, Poitou Chèvre remains dedicated to authentic French cheesemaking, producing small-format specialties like Chabichou, Mothais-sur-Feuille, and this graceful Petite Sainte-Maures.
Flavour and Texture Texture: Lactic and fine, with a creamy-yet-crumbling interior that becomes smoother with ripening. Moist without being wet, it coats the palate delicately.
Flavour: Bright, clean, and gently tangy, with soft notes of citrus, fresh herbs, and a nutty, lingering sweetness. The goat’s milk is well-balanced, offering a milky freshness without aggression.
Aroma: Fresh and subtle, with hints of grass, yogurt, and a light earthiness from the natural rind.
Appearance This little log-shaped cheese has a gently wrinkled, ivory-toned rind and a pale, fine-textured paste. Its rustic surface is natural and uncoated, evolving beautifully with age into a soft, tactile bloom.
Pairing Suggestions Serve with: A handful of fresh figs or grapes, crusty baguette, or toasted walnuts. Try it with a light salad or even as part of a brunch cheese board.
Wine: Best enjoyed with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc (Sancerre, Touraine), dry Chenin Blanc, or a Provençal rosé. Avoid big reds that might overpower its finesse.
Occasions: Perfect for summer picnics, aperitif boards, or refined tasting platters. A gentle cheese that invites conversation and quiet pleasure.
Quiet Elegance in a Small Format Petite Sainte-Maures is proof that less is more. Subtle yet expressive, it embodies the quiet elegance of French goat cheese at its best. Whether you're just beginning your journey with chèvre or you're a long-time fan of French lactic styles, this cheese brings softness, nuance, and a true sense of place to every bite.
