Pavé des Cévennes

1. History

The Pavé des Cévennes is an artisanal cheese from the Caussenard plateaus tradition, produced for decades by the Fromagerie du Fedou.Located in Hyelsas, Lozère, at 1000 meters altitude on the borders of Gard and Hérault, it draws its character from the harsh Cévennes climate.

It resembles Causses Méjan cheeses in shape and style, produced under strict specifications for reasoned agriculture.Its origins trace back to local pastoral practices adapted to Lacaune ewes.

2. Physical characteristics

This small square cheese, hence its name "Pavé" (cobblestone), features a thin, dry natural rind typical of Caussenard cheeses.

Made from raw ewes' milk, it weighs about 200-300 grams, with a firm, compact uncooked pressed paste.

Its pavé shape facilitates aging in cool cellars, giving it a dense texture and rustic appearance.

3. Taste profile

Pavé des Cévennes offers an intense sheep flavor with herbaceous and mineral notes from the dry Caussenard pastures.

Rich, lingering taste, evolving to nutty and hay-like aromas during aging.

Perfect as a meal-ender, pairs well with Languedoc red wines.

4. Production zone and period

Produced on the high Cévennes plateaus, mainly in Lozère (48), bordering Gard (30) and Hérault (34), with a climate of summer drought and harsh winters.

Manufacturing spans the pastoral areas of Causses Méjean, preserved by selected breeders' artisanal know-how.

Main production in spring and summer, when ewes graze abundantly.

5. Certification

Not AOP, AOC, or IGP certified, but made to a strict internal specification requiring reasoned agriculture and Caussenard traditions.

Fromagerie du Fedou ensures traceability and quality through partnerships with rigorously selected farms.

Its recognition stems from authenticity and territorial roots.