In the picturesque little town of Racine in the Eastern Townships lies a gem of Quebec's agri-food scene: Fromagerie Nouvelle-France. Last month, I had the chance to visit to witness the unveiling of two new cheeses that I'm sure will become new favorites among Quebec foodies.
The New France Cheese Factory, winner of the prestigious Caseus Gold prize in 2023 as well as in 2022 for the best cheese of the year for his Zacharie Cloutier, chose to mark this day in a memorable way.
A name full of history
From the moment I arrived, it was clear that this company is much more than just a cheese production facility. It's a true community, a family united by a passion for the art of cheesemaking.
Owner-cheesemaker Marie-Chantal Houde created this place with a clear vision in mind: to share her love of cheese and preserve the ancestral traditions that her family carries within them.
This is also the origin of the cheese factory's name, "Nouvelle-France." Marie-Chantal explains that, despite some initial reluctance to use this name, which has deep meaning for Quebecers, they decided it was the right choice.
For them, the name implies a look to the past in order to move forward, reminding everyone of the importance of their roots. Whether those of the village of Racine (we appreciate the pun!) or those of their ancestors who were among the first settlers.
They also aspire that, perhaps one day, Quebec will become the “New France” of cheeses!
Two new competition cheeses
During this major event, the cheese dairy was filled with a warm and festive atmosphere. The support from local residents and sheep milk producers was tangible, demonstrating the cheese dairy's importance to the community.
The long-awaited moment has finally arrived, with the unveiling of the first cheese: “La Fruitière des bergers” This is a semi-soft cheese, paying homage to sheep’s milk producers.
Marie-Chantal explains that this cheese deserves the term "fruitier" rather than "fermier" because it is the result of the hard work of several sheep's milk producers, not just one. The term is widely used in France, particularly by Comté producers, and is used to describe small dairy cooperatives.
This new cheese, both delicate and tasty, is a real unifier. It is served with a Quebec fig spread to create the perfect bite.
The second cheese unveiled is called " Samuel Le Bleu ," a blue sheep's milk cheese with rich and complex aromas. In terms of taste, it's somewhere between a Roquefort and a Bleu d'Auvergne.
This bold cheese is named after the founder of New France, Samuel de Champlain, and embodies the spirit of exploration and innovation that characterizes this cheese factory. A true competition cheese!
There Fromagerie Nouvelle-France , with its attachment to traditions, its bold vision and its commitment to quality, is a true must-have in the world of cheese in Quebec.
With "La Fruitière des bergers" and "Samuel Le Bleu," she continues to dazzle us with unique creations, reinforcing her well-deserved place in the pantheon of exceptional Quebec cheesemakers. For all cheese lovers, this is a must-visit address.
