Valençay (Berry/Indre)

A pyramid with a flat, square top, this cheese is supposedly made this way because an angry Napoleon sliced the top off the cheese in a fit of fury. Valençay follows the flavour profile of the region with its nutty, slightly earthy and acidic taste. The natural rind is dusted with charcoal and white bloom appears as the cheese dries and matures.

The texture is slight and fudgy when young, and becomes closer and denser with ripening. Although Valençay is available all through the year, the spring through to the summer cheeses showcase the flavours best. The white and rosé wines of the region are the perfect accompaniments for this delicious cheese.