Cantal (pronounced kahn-TAHL) is an aged French cheese with a natural rind, a firm texture, and a subtle yet complex flavor. It's one of the oldest French cheeses and is protected by an AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) that determines how and where cheeses using the Cantal name can be produced. It's sold at a variety of ages, with flavors intensifying as the cheese matures.