Occelli in Foglie di Castagno

One of Beppino Occelli's most distinctive creations, Occelli in Foglie di Castagno is made in Piedmont from a blend of cow's and sheep's milk and matured for around 18 months before being carefully wrapped and further refined in chestnut leaves.

The leaves, gathered from the mountain woods of Val Casotto, are more than decorative. During affinage they contribute to the cheese's distinctive character, complementing its concentrated, mature flavours with an unmistakable woodland quality.

Firm and intensely flavoured, the long maturation brings wonderful depth to the paste, with rich buttery and nutty notes giving way to a savoury, earthy finish. A striking cheese both visually and on the palate, it's a natural centrepiece for a serious cheeseboard.

Country of origin: Italy
Region, town: Piedmont, Val Casotto
Source of milk: Cow's Milk & either Goat or Ewe's milk depending on availability
Texture: Semi-hard with a smooth, dense paste that becomes increasingly creamy and crystalline with age.
Flavour: Buttery and nutty with notes of toasted hazelnuts, caramel, sweet cream and delicate earthy aromas from the chestnut leaves.
Aging time: Approximately 18 months before further refinement in chestnut leaves

Serving Suggestion: Allow the cheese to come to room temperature before serving. Pair with fresh pears, roasted hazelnuts, fig paste or chestnut honey, alongside crusty sourdough or artisan crackers.

Wine Pairing: Barolo, Barbaresco, Nebbiolo, aged Chardonnay or an elegant Tawny Port.

Please note: all our cheeses are hand-cut and weights may vary slightly.