Occelli in Foglie di Castagno

Created by legendary Piedmontese affineur Beppino Occelli, this remarkable Italian cheese is matured before being carefully wrapped in fragrant chestnut leaves, allowing it to develop extraordinary complexity as it ages. The leaves gently impart earthy aromas while helping the cheese retain its supple texture, creating one of Italy's most celebrated artisan cheeses.

Rich and beautifully balanced, Occelli in Foglie di Castagno offers layers of browned butter, toasted hazelnuts and sweet cream, complemented by subtle woodland notes from the chestnut leaves. Elegant enough for a cheeseboard yet distinctive enough to become the centrepiece, it's a cheese that rewards slow appreciation.

Country of origin: Italy
Region, town: Piedmont
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: Minimum 12 months, with additional maturation wrapped 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.