Valençay cheese

Valençay cheese is a traditional French cheese originating from the province of Berry, now part of the Centre-Val de Loire region. It is named after the town of Valençay in the Indre department. This cheese is distinctive for its truncated pyramidal shape and its ash-covered rind, which contributes to its unique appearance and flavor profile. Valençay cheese is made from unpasteurized goat's milk, reflecting the area's long-standing tradition of goat husbandry.

History

The origins of Valençay cheese are deeply rooted in the agricultural traditions of the Berry region. It is said that the unique shape of the cheese, resembling a pyramid with its top cut off, was inspired by an event involving Napoleon Bonaparte. According to local lore, after his disastrous campaign in Egypt, Napoleon stopped at the castle in Valençay. Upon seeing a pyramid-shaped cheese, he drew his sword and sliced the top off in a fit of rage, thus giving the cheese its distinctive shape. While this story is apocryphal, it adds to the mystique and heritage of Valençay cheese.

Production

The production of Valençay cheese involves a meticulous process that begins with the collection of fresh goat's milk. The milk is then curdled using natural rennet, and the curds are carefully molded into the cheese's characteristic shape. After demolding, the cheese is salted and then coated with a mixture of charcoal and salt, which gives it its greyish-blue rind. This coating not only affects the cheese's flavor but also helps in the ripening process by protecting the cheese and aiding in the development of its unique texture and taste.

Valençay cheese undergoes a ripening period of at least three weeks, during which it develops a firm but creamy texture and a complex flavor profile that includes hints of nuttiness, citrus, and a subtle tanginess characteristic of goat's milk cheeses.

Characteristics

Valençay cheese is easily recognizable by its ash-covered rind and geometric shape. It weighs approximately 200-250 grams and has a soft, creamy interior with a dense texture. The flavor of Valençay cheese is complex, with a balance of salty, tangy, and slightly bitter notes, which become more pronounced as the cheese ages.

Culinary Uses

Valençay cheese is versatile in the kitchen and can be enjoyed in various ways. It is often served at room temperature as part of a cheese platter, allowing its flavors to be fully appreciated. It pairs well with light, fruity wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or a young Chenin Blanc. In addition to being a delightful table cheese, Valençay can also be used in salads, as a topping for warm dishes, or baked in the oven to create a deliciously melted cheese dish.

Protected Designation

Valençay cheese has been granted a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status by the European Union, recognizing its unique regional characteristics and ensuring that only cheese produced using traditional methods in the designated area can be sold under the Valençay name. This designation helps to preserve the cheese's heritage and guarantees its quality and authenticity.

See Also

• French cuisine
• List of goat milk cheeses
• Protected Designation of Origin