Couronne lochoise

1. History

La Couronne Lochoise is a trademark registered for about 25 years, exclusively owned by Fromagerie Fréval in Betz-le-Château, Indre-et-Loire. Invented in the early 2000s by Jean-Claude Fréval, it diversifies goat cheese production with its unique ring shape evoking Loches crowns. It gained quick success and won a gold medal at the Mondial du Fromage in Tours in 2013.

2. Physical characteristics

This raw goat's milk cheese weighs about 170 grams and features a distinctive ring or crown shape for even ripening inside and out. Its rind is thin, cream-colored, delicately ashed with white down and wrinkled. The paste is white, dense at the core with oozing under the rind, offering a creamy, buttery texture.

3. Taste profile

On the nose, it offers a delicate aroma of fresh milk and hay. In the mouth, La Couronne Lochoise is mild, melting, and buttery with notes of undergrowth, mushrooms, and a slightly salty yet bold taste. Its firm yet creamy paste delivers a balanced flavor, akin to relatives like Selles-sur-Cher.

4. Production zone and period

Produced exclusively at Ferme de la Biche in Betz-le-Château near Loches, in Indre-et-Loire (Centre-Val de Loire region). Minimum aging is 10-15 days, up to one month, aided by the crown shape. It's artisanally made year-round with local goats' milk.

5. Certification

La Couronne Lochoise is a registered trademark, without AOC, AOP, or IGP status. Recognized as a raw milk farm goat cheese, it's award-winning at the Mondial du Fromage. Its artisanal production by Fromagerie Fréval ensures local authenticity.