Cheese after pudding

SIR – John Kelsall’s account (Letters, January 18) of his French mother-inlaw’s pity for English wives whose husbands eat cheese after dessert reminded me of dining in Brittany some years ago.

When I asked for cheese after pudding, the waitress paused. Then, muttering “bizarre”, she disappeared into the kitchen. Several chefs’ heads appeared to view the curious diners. Allan Norris

Bridport, Dorset

SIR – Having lived in France in the 1970s, I believe the French have cheese before pudding so that the red wine enjoyed during the meat course can be finished with a good Brie or Camembert. A sweet wine is then served with the pudding.

I was also taught that wine should never be drunk with eggs or chocolate. Bryony Hill

Hurstpierpoint, West Sussex