Eh Cherry, the cherry of Bessenay

Just 35 minutes from Lyon, Bessenay is one of those Rhône Valley villages whose name is synonymous with fruit-growing expertise. Here and in the surrounding villages, cherries are cultivated and sold under the "Eh Cherry" brand. Florent Chirat, a producer in Saint-Julien-sur-Bibost, introduces us to this seasonal gem, whose ambassador is none other than Michelin-starred chef Régis Marcon.

Juicy, sweet, plump, the cherries from Bessenay They embody indulgence and an enchanting landscape, when, still in their sumptuous clusters of flowers, they cover the branches of the trees. Beyond L'Arbresle, abundant orchards dot the hills and plateaus of the Brévenne Valley. They bear witness to a living heritage of the Monts du Lyonnais. Not so long ago, their cultivation provided a supplementary income for the inhabitants of the area. Many took holidays devoted solely to picking and selling their own harvests.

The cherry tree, king of fruit trees in the Lyonnais mountains

Florent Chirat is the son of a farmer, and his childhood memories tell of a past that has just passed away. He explains that around the "traditional farms" clinging to the mountain slopes, rows of vines stretched alongside meadows dedicated to livestock farming.

In the Lyonnais mountains, "everyone practiced mixed farming and had cherry trees," he adds. He describes these beautiful trees as "open to the elements, very tall," flourishing in the middle of pastures sometimes located at altitudes of over 500 meters.

Then, he describes the "bell markets, specific to small fruits." On the eve of the 2000s, cherry sales took place directly between producers and buyers in the village squares of Bessenay, Montrottier, Saint-Julien, and Bibost. Fierce negotiations began at the first ring of the bell. Starting in the late afternoon, according to clearly established fixed schedules from one village to the next, the sales route sometimes continued until dusk.

Nestled between sunny hillsides and well-drained soils, the Monts du Lyonnais have long been a haven for cherry trees. Now specializing in fruit growing, the farmers of the Bessenay region maintain a traditional expertise, and the fruit, patiently awaited by consumers, graces tables throughout France. The annual harvest approaches 3,000 tons.

Rhône Tourism – C. Brassart

"Hey Cherry," from the tree to the taste buds

This fruit-growing region, now spread across some twenty communes in the Bessenay area, is maintained by around sixty producers. Among them, young people are continuing the family business, while others have ventured into setting up their own farms.

Firmly rooted in its land, the Bessenay cherry breaks free from the framework of a protected designation of origin (PDO). The thirty or so varieties However, the product is sold under the brand name "Eh Cherry", a graphic signature clearly visible on the shelves, with crates and boxes branded with a sensual vermilion cherry, topped with a white lace mask.

It should also be noted that here, the cherry season has the particularity of extending into summer.

From May 20th, the Burlat, the earliest variety, heralds the start of the season. Highly flavorful, it is named after its creator, a grower and orchardist born in the Lyon region at the end of the 19th century. Later varieties of sweet cherries from orchards located higher up in the hills follow until mid-July.

The exceptional taste of Bessenay cherries makes them ideal for "eating fresh," explains Florent Chirat. Being quite delicate, they arrive in stores having ripened on the tree, thus avoiding prolonged periods in refrigerators.

For the past few years, fruit growers have also been planting mirabelle plums. These small yellow fruits from our countryside contribute to the diversification of production and the vitality of agriculture in the Bessen region.

Walking among the cherry trees

To help pass the time before tasting the new vintages, enjoy the delight and joy provided by the cherry trees at the peak of their flowering in April.

Nestled in deep valleys or clustered in lush, dazzling white orchards, they imbue the landscapes with a springtime, poetic atmosphere. Numerous hiking trails crisscross these typical settings, offering breathtaking panoramic views often equipped with orientation tables and picnic areas.

In Saint-Julien-sur-Bibost

• The short tour of the Crêt d'Arjoux, easy 4,9 km hike.
• With children, A farm in paradise, Gnolus route of 3,5 km in the company of Bêtâ.

In Bessenay

• Site of the Ripan chapel, panoramic table and picnic area.
• Regina, Duroni, Sweetheart 13,8 km hike of moderate difficulty.

Cooking Régis Marcon's signature dessert

Almost 10 years ago, Régis Marcon became the ambassador for the Eh Cherry brand after being approached by growers.

To honor this exceptional terroir, the renowned chef created a signature dessert: the chocolate and cherry soufflé tart from Bessenay. Pastry enthusiasts are invited to recreate it using the detailed recipe video.

Finally, to celebrate the cherry, the biennial " Hey Cherry Festival " offers four days of musical festivities. See you in early July 2027 for the next edition.