
Calissons from Provence
These sweets are made from a paste of candied fruits, normally oranges and melons, topped with a thin layer of royal icing.
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Discover the top Provence local produce
The appellation d’origine contrôlée (AOC) is the certification granted by the French government to ensure that all wines, cheese and certain agricultural products are produced in the region of their origin, in the traditional manner, using specific ingredients.
For example a sparkling white wine may only be called a Champagne if it is produced in the Champagne region of France using specific grapes; and a Beaufort cheese may only bear that name if it has been made from the milk of Tarentaise or Abondance cows in the region of Beaufort in the time-honoured fashion.
There is a strict labelling policy which means that only items that adhere to the guidelines can bear the AOC seal on its label or rind. This ensures a certain amount of quality control and protects the heritage of many quintessentially French products.
These sweets are made from a paste of candied fruits, normally oranges and melons, topped with a thin layer of royal icing.
The vast majority of cheeses that are made in Provence are goats cheese. Most of the goats graze in the north of the region in the foothills of the Alps, and produce a wide range of fresh & mild goats cheese, plus stronger editions that have been aged.
Provence used to produce 1000 tonnes of truffles each year. Now, thanks to deforestation and a focus on vineyards, the production is down to 30-60 tonnes, which is around 80% of all the truffles produced in France.
Provence is the top region in France for fruit and vegetables, growing over half of the nations produce.
Well known for this tasty fruit the most popular melon to come from Cavaillon is in fact the cantaloupe, a small round melon with green stripes on the outside and rich orange flesh inside.
Nougat has been made in this region since the 17th century when almond trees were first planted in the area, in the northern part of Provence.
Established in Provence by the Greeks, the olive tree has become a staple ingredient of life in the south of France.
If you imagine a typical Provencal scene where local villagers are playing boules whilst a collection of characters watch from under the shade of some plane trees, it is likely that they will all be drinking Pastis.
Find out all about what is happening in Provence and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see and experience in this picturesque French region.
See allLatest News & ReviewsProvence has a busy calendar of events all year round featuring art exhibitions, charming markets, cultural festivals and concerts. Spring and autumn are the time to celebrate local produce while during the peak holiday times, in the summer months, you will find world-renowned music and cultural events like the Choregies d'Orange or the Avignon Festival.
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