Pied-de-Vent (Fromagerie du Pied-de-Vent, Îles-de-la-Madeleine, Quebec)

Jérémie Arseneau brought to his Pied-de-Vent farm the only breed of cow developed in North America – the virtually extinct stocky, hardy Canadienne, a cross between Norman and Breton stock. His 50 milkers provide enough milk for 90 wheels of cheese per day. The grass-fed cattle get added hay and fodder produced on the island, which gives the milk its unique flavours. The cheese weighs 1.2 kg (2½ lb) and has a piquant taste with a chewy texture and a robust aromatic washed rind.