Mont des Cats Cheese

Mont des Cats cheese is a traditional French Trappist cheese produced in the Hauts-de-France region, near the Belgian border. This semi-soft, washed-rind cheese is known for its rich history, religious origins, and distinctive taste.

It is crafted by monks at the Mont des Cats Abbey, continuing a centuries-old tradition of monastic cheesemaking.

Key Characteristics

Mont des Cats is a semi-soft, cow’s milk cheese with a washed rind that develops a deep golden-orange hue. It typically comes in a small, round wheel, and its texture is smooth yet firm.

The cheese has a slightly pungent aroma, a natural result of the washing process during aging. Unlike some stronger Trappist cheeses, Mont des Cats maintains a balanced and subtle flavor, making it accessible to a wide range of cheese lovers.

History and Production

Mont des Cats cheese originates from the Mont des Cats Abbey, a Trappist monastery founded in the 19th century.

The monks, following the monastic tradition of self-sufficiency, began cheesemaking to support their community and preserve their artisanal heritage.

The production process follows traditional methods: fresh cow’s milk is curdled, molded, and pressed before undergoing a careful aging process.

The rind is regularly washed with brine to encourage bacterial growth, which develops the cheese’s signature color and flavor.

Although the cheese was originally produced entirely within the abbey, modern production now involves collaboration with nearby dairies while still maintaining the monks’ original recipe and quality standards.

Flavor & Texture Profile

Mont des Cats has a mild yet complex taste with notes of butter, cream, and a slight nuttiness. The washed rind adds a subtle earthiness and a hint of tang without being overpowering.

Its texture is firm but smooth, allowing it to melt beautifully when heated. Unlike some washed-rind cheeses with intense funk, Mont des Cats remains approachable, making it an excellent entry point into Trappist-style cheeses.

How to Enjoy

Mont des Cats cheese is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:

On a Cheese Board: Pair with fresh baguette, dried fruits, or nuts for a classic French experience.
Melted in Dishes: Excellent for fondue, gratins, or as a topping for baked potatoes.
With Wine or Beer: Complements light-bodied red wines, white wines like Chardonnay, or traditional Trappist beers.
As a Snack: Sliced and enjoyed with simple crackers or rustic bread.

Cultural & Regional Significance

Mont des Cats cheese reflects the rich monastic heritage of Trappist cheesemaking, a practice that extends beyond France into Belgium and the Netherlands.

The abbey’s location in the Hauts-de-France region, known for its dairy excellence, adds to the cheese’s regional identity.

Though it is not as globally famous as some other French cheeses, it holds a special place among artisanal cheese enthusiasts and those who appreciate the tradition of monastic craftsmanship.

Whether as a part of a gourmet spread or simply enjoyed on its own, Mont des Cats offers a taste of history, tradition, and the quiet dedication of the Trappist monks who have kept this cheese alive for generations.