Honey, Chestnut Tree – Rayon d’Or

Le Rayon d’Or is a small-scale producer based in the French Pyrenees, specialising in raw, organic honey harvested from wild and uncultivated areas. Their chestnut honey comes from hives placed in remote mountain forests where chestnut trees grow freely, far from pesticides and pollution. The chestnut tree has long been a staple of rural life in the Pyrenees, both as food and fuel, and its flowers are a rich nectar source for bees during the early summer months. This honey is cold-extracted and unprocessed, preserving all of its natural character and complexity.

Dark amber in colour with a slightly reddish tint, this chestnut honey is thick and slow-pouring. Its aroma is earthy and woody, with subtle hints of leather and dried herbs. On the tongue, it’s bold and slightly bitter, with a savoury edge that sets it apart from lighter floral varieties. The texture is smooth but dense, coating the mouth and lingering with a deep, slightly roasted taste. It has a natural richness that makes it ideal for those who prefer a stronger, more complex honey.

This honey pairs beautifully with a slice of Tomme de Chèvre Grise au Bleu. The bold saltiness and creamy texture of the blue cheese meet the intense, slightly tannic sweetness of the honey in a way that’s both surprising and balanced. Try it drizzled over the cheese on a slice of nutty sourdough or alongside roasted walnuts for a rustic apéro.