Dairy

Maltese Goat

C tier

The Maltese goat is a white or cream Mediterranean dairy animal historically kept across Malta, southern Italy, and related island flocks. Milk is aromatic and moderately rich, suited to fresh cheeses such as gbejna-style small forms and soft strained products. Lactose-sweet notes pair with herbal, slightly salty Mediterranean grazing flavours when flocks range coastal scrub. Outside specialist and heritage herds the breed is less common than Alpine or Saanen types, so pure Maltese milk is a regional specialty. Cooks use it for ricotta-like curds, simple boiled milk desserts, and small aged cheeses. Conservation and island branding keep interest alive among Maltese and Italian small dairies seeking characterful goat milk rather than industrial volume.