Cotignac d'Orléans, "Le Louis XI" 80g

Cotignac d'Orléans is one of France's oldest sweets: presented to Joan of Arc in 1429, served at the table of François I, it has crossed the centuries without ever needing to reinvent itself. Maison Gouchault has been making it by hand since 1975, following a recipe true to the Orléans tradition, with 45% quince juice and a touch of acidity that brings out the fruit's natural aromas.

The texture melts on the tongue, the flavour both gentle and faintly tart. It's worth trying on its own first, to get a proper sense of its character, but it also belongs on the table: it pairs naturally with foie gras and cheese, complementing rather than competing.

The wooden box is not just packaging, it is part of the product and the ritual. Tradition has it that you break off a piece to share; a spoon works just as well. That distinctive case is also what makes this an immediately recognisable gift.