In 1998, Monique Roussel and husband Andre Martineau imported their first sheep from Holland specifically for their milk. The family had owned sheep since 1992, but were raised for their meat. The following year a small-scale cheese production began at La Bergerie Aux 4 Vents, making them one of Atlantic Canada’s first sheep’s milk cheese producers in New Brunswick. It all started with a cheese named La Sieur de Duplessis. This artisinal cheese became Canada’s first “tomme” cheese. Made from unpasteurized sheep’s milk, La Sieur de Duplessis was a firm cheese, with a golden-brown patterned rind which gave it a rustic look.
In 2005, Monique opened Les Gourmandes Cheese Delicatessen & Chocolates in downtown Moncton on November 28th. Our own line of chocolates was incorporated into the boutique as well as the importation of a wide selection of cheeses from Europe and around the world. Today at La Bergerie Aux 4 Vents, we continue to make cheeses, which we carry in store. Geai Bleu is our blue cheese with a mild creamy texture, great for both beginners and seasoned cheese lovers. Champ Dore is a washed rind “tomme-style” cheese and is a local favorite.
In 2015, Jonathan Martineau, youngest son of Monique and André took over the family business at Les Gourmandes and moved the location to the 529 Main Street where it can now be found. After a trip to Italy sparked Jonathan’s love for charcuterie, the importation of Italian and Spanish meats began. Our love for travel is equivalent to our love for food, and allows us to search the world for “best in class” products that stand out for their superior quality ingredients and exceptional flavors so we can share them with you. Come on in and try them for yourself!
Let us help you become a connoisseur of cheese!