Thalassery, formerly Tellicherry, is located in the northwest of the Indian state of Kerala and is the namesake for one of the very special and best pepper varieties that India has to offer. Tellicherry pepper is made from fully ripe, red pepper berries that are fermented and dried with the whole fruit flesh. This process turns the pepper black, but not jet black; rather, it has a pleasantly deep brown hue. This method has further developed the aroma significantly: the fully ripe peppercorns have taken on a distinctly nutty flavor, but also a strong spiciness. The primary use of this pepper is with dark meats such as game and beef, but it is also found in chocolatey desserts.