Nestled amidst the quaint town of Pontlevoy, Fromagerie Moreau stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of French cheesemaking. Stepping into this haven of dairy delights is like embarking on a journey through time, where the aroma of freshly churned milk mingles with the rustic charm of a 19th-century farmyard.
The fromagerie, under the passionate stewardship of Jean-Luc Bilien, has been crafting artisanal cheeses for the past decade. Their story began when the Moreau family, seeking to retire, passed the reins to Jean-Luc, a man with a deep-rooted passion for cheesemaking. While the goats now reside on a nearby farm, their milk continues to grace the fromagerie, ensuring the authenticity and quality of their products.
A Passion for Cheesemaking Jean-Luc's journey into the world of cheesemaking is as unique as the flavors he creates. An agronomist by training, he found himself drawn to the art of cheesemaking during a sojourn in Brazil. Upon returning to France, he yearned for a return to traditional cheesemaking methods, leading him to acquire Fromagerie Moreau.
Today, the fromagerie produces two AOP cheeses: Sainte Maure de Touraine, known for its distinctive log shape, and Selles-sur-Cher, a disc-shaped cheese with a bloomy rind. These cheeses are carefully crafted using time-honored techniques, earning them the esteemed AOP designation.
A Peek into the Cheesemaking Process Visitors to Fromagerie Moreau are treated to a glimpse into the intricate process of cheesemaking. From the gentle scooping of curd into molds to the watchful monitoring of the ripening stages, each step is imbued with care and expertise.
The fromagerie's commitment to quality extends beyond its AOP offerings. Jean-Luc also produces a variety of non-AOP cheeses, including pavé de Pontlevoy, crottins, and pyramids. Each cheese boasts its own distinct character, adding to the fromagerie's rich repertoire.
A Taste of Tradition No visit to Fromagerie Moreau would be complete without indulging in the delectable cheeses that grace its shelves. The fromagerie's well-stocked shop offers a delightful array of cheeses, along with an assortment of local artisanal products that perfectly complement their creations.
For those seeking a deeper understanding of the cheesemaking process, Jean-Luc offers guided tours, including a visit to the goat farm and a comprehensive video presentation that delves into the intricacies of cheesemaking from farm to fromagerie.
Fromagerie Moreau is more than just a cheese producer; it is a sanctuary of traditional craftsmanship, where passion and expertise converge to create cheeses that are as rich in flavor as they are in history.
