Valençay AOC

Valençay AOC is a French Appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) designation for both cheese and wine from the region of Valençay, in the Indre department of central France.

History

The Valençay AOC was first established for cheese in 1998, and later for wine in 2003. The AOC is named after the town of Valençay, which is known for its distinctive pyramid-shaped cheese and its unique style of wine.

Valençay Cheese

Valençay cheese is a type of goat's milk cheese that is shaped like a pyramid with a truncated top. The cheese is lightly salted and then ashed, a process that gives it its distinctive blue-grey color. It is then aged for at least three weeks. The cheese is known for its soft, creamy texture and mild, tangy flavor.

Valençay Wine

Valençay wine is produced in the region surrounding the town of Valençay. The wine is made from a blend of grape varieties, including Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. The wines are known for their light, fruity flavors and high acidity, which makes them a perfect match for the local cheese.

Production

The production of both Valençay cheese and wine is strictly regulated by the AOC designation. The cheese must be made from raw, whole goat's milk from animals that have been fed a diet of natural forage. The wine must be made from grapes grown in designated vineyards within the Valençay region.

See Also

• French wine
• French cheese
• Appellation d'origine contrôlée