Périgord walnut

The walnut tree has always found everything it needs to flourish in the Périgord’s lands. The Périgord walnut kernel and Périgord walnut both have a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO). Fresh walnuts are picked as of mid-September when ripe, not dry, and are sold straight away for just a few weeks. Dried walnuts are picked at the beginning of October and can keep for the whole year when stored away from direct sunlight (as is the case for the kernels), in a cool, dry place.

Walnuts are an unrivalled nutritional product: invaluable in fighting cholesterol, a true ally in preventing cardiovascular diseases, a source of essential fatty acids such as Omega 3, a high-energy food, the list goes on.

As old as the trade in walnuts, the trade in walnut oil is also an emblem of the Périgord. This product derived from walnuts has been reconquering its dietary and gourmet reputation, and is on the menus of the finest restaurants. In November 2018, it obtained its controlled designation of origin (A.O.C.). Walnuts and walnut kernels are part of a range of dried fruits that are well known to consumers.

When it’s time for drinks, don’t forget to offer plain, salted or flavoured walnut kernels or Agen prunes stuffed with Périgord walnuts, it’ll give a touch of originality at this traditional social occasion.