Cheese and Cider tasting in Normandy

In the heart of Calvados, the charming town of Pont-l’Évêque offers a delightful mix of attractions. There’s a picturesque lake, a convenient train station on the Paris-Deauville line, the welcoming Terre d’Auge Tourist Office, the serene Touques River and a quaint cheese shop found at 26 Rue Saint Michel: La Dégusterie. Run by David Raguet, this local favourite offers a curated selection of Normandy’s finest products, all chosen with a discerning eye. In Pont-l’Évêque, known for its rich culinary scene, indulging in a cheese tasting workshop is an experience not to be missed!

Meet a true cheese enthusiast

Pont-l’Évêque is one of the four PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) cheeses from the region, alongside Camembert de Normandie, Neufchâtel, and Livarot (in French, AOP stands for “Appellation d’Origine Protégée” or “Protected Designation of Origin”, meaning a product is made according to traditional methods and originates from a specific geographical area, ensuring its quality and authenticity.) These local treasures are the highlight of David Raguet’s tasting sessions, where he loves to share their rich and rather romantic stories. More than anything, David is passionate about the local terroir and committed to excellence. The cheeses in his shop aren’t just chosen at random; each one has been carefully tasted and selected by David and then matured by a skilled affineur. This dedication has earned La Dégusterie its membership in the prestigious “Collège Culinaire de France” since 2024.

Each of the four PDO Normandy cheeses has its own distinct shape, appearance, texture, taste, story, and producer. David Raguet knows them all inside out. “What drives me is connecting producers with consumers, being this direct link, describing the flavours, and sharing the story of these exceptional products, from farm to fork,” he says.

FOUR Normandy Cheeses & Ciders TO SAMPLE

Today, Magalie, Cynthia, and Jean-François — three friends visiting Normandy — settle in comfortably at the back of the shop, captivated by the stories and tasting tips from their host. As a true expert, David Raguet shares his insights with enthusiasm. “Pont-l’Évêque cheese dates back to the Middle Ages. It was once called ‘l’Angelot’ and was even used as currency to pay taxes,” he says with a twinkle in his eye. “Its fame spread far and wide, making it a star at the Pont-l’Évêque market, which is exactly how it earned its name.”

The tasting experience is a delightful blend of conviviality and culinary pleasure. Each cheese is expertly paired with a local cider, creating a perfect harmony of flavours. All the ciders come from the Dupont family, renowned producers based in Victot-Pontfol in the Pays d’Auge. The “Réserve” cider beautifully complements the rich Pont-l’Évêque, while the crisp “Blanc de Pomme” is a perfect match for Neufchâtel. The robust “Triple” enhances the power of Camembert, and the “Cidre de Glace” adds a luxurious sweetness to the Livarot. “Local pairings are unparalleled,” the artisan cheesemonger asserts.“These products are made for each other.” The combinations are not just harmonious; they elevate each cheese to a new level of enjoyment. The three friends are captivated: “This is a true dive into Normandy’s gastronomy, and tasting such exceptional products is a real treat for the tastebuds. We’re definitely taking some of this home with us,” they agree.

Excessive alcohol consumption is harmful to health. Please drink responsibly.

David Raguet

Founder of la Dégusterie

In 2022, David Raguet established La Dégusterie with a singular vision: to share the stories behind Normandy’s exceptional products. Driven by a deep passion for local craftsmanship, David aims to celebrate and preserve the region’s finest flavours, inviting visitors to experience the true essence of Normandy’s culinary heritage.