Valençay

The cheese alledgedly gets its truncated shape from an incident involving Napoleon, a sword and a tantrum – whatever, there is no mistaking this blue-grey, chopped-cone shape.

Characteristics: natural blue/grey rind with a velvety texture; woody aroma; fresh nutty flavour with a delicate mousse like texture that melts in the mouth.

Best with: great with crisp, slightly sour, green apple slices.