Archive for November 27th, 2022

  |  
November 27, 2022

Wines news of France XXXVIII !!

Well, we are right into mid Fall season , and November 2022 ,is coming along fine, the temps will be colder come Decemberer so say the so call experts. Anyway, always good to bring the best of Wines news of France. First ,thanks to all my readers and/or followers! Oh yeah, the wines of France are just super simply awesome and a great tradition. Often imitated, some time equaled ,but never surpass! Let me give you some news shall we. I have taken several old posts into one for the memories’ sake. Hope you enjoy it as I.

Wine consumption in France in 2022: the French drink less, but better, A Kantar survey published on the occasion of Beaujolais Nouveau by RTL tell us. The budget allocated to the purchase of a bottle of wine is constantly increasing in France: 56% of people surveyed in 2022 by the Sowine agency, say they regularly buy bottles between 11 and 20 €, compared to 22% in 2013. Oh yeah less and better of course or more and better me think

According to a study carried out by the online cellar building and management site Cavissima in partnership with Ifop, investing in wine is a safe and profitable investment investing in wine tempts nearly one in four people (24 %). This is at least what emerges from a survey carried out last October by the site Cavissima, in partnership with Ifop. Greater interest among young men (25-34 years old), The future of wine looks good !

The 2022 list of the most influential Champagne houses on social networks Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn ! In this list dedicated to the communication of 61 major champagne brands through four social networks; Philipponnat is positioned in the forefront in the promotion of a 20-hectare vineyard founded in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ in 1522. For a hundred years, the Clos des Goisses, hillside of 5, 5 hectares facing south on a terroir of pure chalk, produces champagnes faithfully acclaimed by connoisseurs the size of Philipponnat, 600,000 bottles per year, The house is even an outsider in 5th place overall after Taittinger, in number 1, the winner in all categories, Bollinger in the lead on Facebook Veuve Clicquot which crushes the competition on Twitter and LinkedIn and Laurent Perrier in 4th position. On Instagram, Philipponnat is simply number 2. Yes great Champagne house indeed, webpage : https://www.philipponnat.com/en/

The cru bourgeois are making their revolution with new colorful banner (brand identity), new coat of arms (logo) and new motto (baseline): “Quality with the eyes closed”. But in substance, they return to the old regime, distinguishing “crus bourgeois exceptionnels”, “crus bourgeois supérieurs” and “crus bourgeois“. Because, in this immense and very diverse family of XXS or XXL vineyards, family properties, belonging to private or institutional investors, or even active in large groups, which represents 31% of the production of the Médoc with 28 million bottles, the chateaux enjoying a brand as strong as the label threatened to secede. Owners and traders deplored the volatile nature of the annual classification: how to explain to the markets which abhor the uncertainty that a same vintage is bourgeois in this year and loses this quality the following year. Consumers, themselves, wondered about a price range varying from simple to triple depending on the prestige of the appellation and the reputation of the chateau with prices generally pulled down. The L’Alliance des crus bourgeois du Médoc,( Médoc Crus Bourgeois Alliance) has therefore clarified its offer. The new protocol, validated by the public authorities, introduces a return to prioritisation with constraints and independent controls specific to each category. And stabilizes the offer with a classification valid for five years, enough to sustain trade relations. They need to adapt to an ultra-competitive global market, while the quality level has generally gone up. This revised classification sounds a new start for the cru bourgeois wines. Those who today would be unhappy with their fate still have the opportunity to appeal. As for the coexistence of these three categories, on the need for collective promotion, mention or not in titles. To be seen now the public reaction and welcome of these labels and properties. There are in general a very good price quality ratio to had. The L’Alliance des crus bourgeois du Médoc : https://www.crus-bourgeois.com/classement-2020/

Take part in the next Figaro Vin lunch which will take place on Wednesday November 30, 2022 with the emblematic Châteaux Beauregard and Smith Haut Lafitte, served in the private rooms of Galeries Lafayette Haussmann on the seventh floor a magnificent view of Paris, The Château Beauregard, located on the exceptional terroir of Pomerol, is one of the jewels of the appellation, notable for its wines of admirable freshness and elegance. Château Smith Haut Lafitte, Grand Cru Classé de Graves in 1959, is recognized for its great wines from the Pessac-Léognan appellation, for its whites with an exceptional aromatic palette and for its fine and gourmet reds. The lunch at 12h15 on Wednesday November 30, 2022, Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, 40 Bd Haussmann, 9éme, Price: €210 Webpage Reservation:https://boutique.lefigaro.fr/produit/135395-les-dejeuners-du-figaro-vin-chateaux -beauregard-et-smith-haut-lafitte

A masterclass led by the head of cellars, Alice Tétienne from the house of Henriot, who will present 5 cuvées: Henriot Brut Souverain, Henriot Blanc de Blancs, Henriot Cuvée Hemera 2006, Henriot L’Inattendue 2016, Henriot Mémoires millésime 1971. Apolline Henriot founded the Maison Henriot in 1808 with the desire to illuminate its lands by creating a great champagne. For more than two centuries, Maison Henriot has continued to pay tribute to him by perpetuating his vision of vines and wine. Monday, November 28,18h30. Hotel Le Meurice, 228, rue de Rivoli, 1éme Price:79€ Reservation webpage: https://boutique.lefigaro.fr/produit/135248-masterclass-animee-par-la-maison-henriot

On the one hand, Lady Gaga as a party ambassador for Dom Pérignon. On the other, the natural beauty of Roederer. Two different philosophies magnified by the respective social networks of each brand.

Lady Gaga and Dom Pérignon were made to meet. From this meeting was born the Queendom, In 2021, the association was inaugurated with a numbered series of 100 bottles, 50 copies of Dom Pérignon Vintage 2010 in a metallic silver bottle, 50 of Dom Pérignon Vintage 2006 in a shiny pink case. And, 110 sail-shaped sculptures specially created by Nicola Formichetti, whose piece N° 1, signed by the hand of Lady Gaga, was put on sale for the benefit of Born This Way, the charitable foundation of the singer. At the end of 2022, the limited edition Dom Pérignon Rosé Vintage 2008 is adorned with a metallic box matching the violet accents of the 100% Pinot Noir cuvée. Tagged by the champagne house owned by Moët Hennessy (LVMH) On the heights of Los Angeles, the villa Sheats Goldstein is one of those extraordinary residences dug into the hill facing the panorama of the city which shines with all its lights. Decor, guests and, Queen Gaga in black batwing dress, platform shoes. The party continued at Club James, the Sheats Goldstein’s in-house nightclub. DJ Hana and Lady Gaga mixed together Webpage : https://www.domperignon.com/fr-fr/inspirations/lady-gaga-eoy

Radical change of style with the Roederer house. In gold, black, firecracker pink and the stars of the Hollywood party, staged by the post of October 27, 2022, chose, on the same date, to publish a 6.13-minute didactic video to present its Brut Millésimé, the Vintage Late Release. A blend of the best cuvées over 30 years, from the top of the mountain of Reims, in particular the terroir of Verzy, more particularly still, the plot of Bayon, 1.71 ha of pinot noir in the heart of the domain. Aerial view of the ocean of vines on the mid-slope around the Verzenay lighthouse, First of all, the unique singularity of Roederer, which is based on its historical attachment to the terroir Roederer is one of the last great family and independent champagne houses. The biodynamics of Louis Roederer is the first champagne house engaged for more than twenty years in practice. Today, the vineyard is in organic certification on 115 ha historical, in biodynamic certified on 9 ha. That is 124 out of 242 ha. Roederer’s strategy is therefore based on the creation of a social network, the architect of the Cristal cuvée, shares his daily life and behind the scenes of the house. He shoots his videos himself, takes the photos, has them sent to him by the heads of sector, posts the messages, replies to them personally.Webpage : https://www.louis-roederer.com/en

There has always been a huge misunderstanding about Champagne. For most consumers, it is a drink to be enjoyed as soon as purchased. It is no doubt the fault of the people of Champagne themselves, who constantly proclaim loud and clear that, unlike other wine-growing regions, the producers make the effort to keep the bottles in the cellar long enough for them to arrive. to maturity with their clients. The appellation requires, in fact, that a brut without a year remains at least 15 months on the slat, and 3 years for a vintage, some houses even highlighting prolonged aging. But it is probably forgetting a little too quickly that Champagne is first and foremost a wine like any other. Why Chardonnay or Pinot Champenois could not produce great wines for laying down in the Marne or Aube, as is the case, for example, with its neighbor Burgundy. This taste for old champagnes was first initiated by the Nordic countries and Great Britain. It is now international with amateurs in Asia , The wine then gains in roundness, in smoothness and on the other hand, it will lose in effervescence. The older the wine, the less bubbles it has , Because each house, or almost, has its own vision of old vintages. Some, like Dom Pérignon, Veuve Clicquot or Moët & Chandon, set a part of each vintage apart to age them longer. on the market. Those who have known a greater ageing, around fifteen years, will also keep their capacity intact for fifteen years. Do not hesitate, from now on, to let your Champagnes spend some time in your cellar, you will thus be able to discover a new sensory experience and taste ! Indeed !!! Champagne webpage: https://www.champagne.fr/en

And for the season to be merrier coming up for 2022 here are some general suggestions yours truly. Enjoy them fully without moderation !!!

The plain oysters go well with a Sèvre-et-Maine muscadet. For my part, I will choose the Château du Cléray, flagship of the Domaines Sauvion. This cuvée, coming from the sandy and loamy soils of the Pays Nantais, is first expressed by notes of green fruit (kiwi, apple), and more muted aromas of mint; on the palate, the structure is invigorating and refreshing. One of my all time favorite property know the owners and in laws and had plenty , enjoy it. More info : www.sauvion.fr

At the table or for the aperitif, with old-fashioned scallops. This white with a captivating nose flirts with exotic fruits. In the mouth, it is lively – very lemony – and gives a boost to the taste buds. Ideal with an iodized dish in sauce to counterbalance the oiliness. Cœur de Charmes Mâcon-Lugny, https://cave-lugny.com/boutique/produit/33/coeur-de-charmes.html

With a stir-fried veal dish. This cuvée is a real treat, an explosion of fresh fruit. Ultra delicious, it can be enjoyed around 10-12 ° C, at the table with white meats. Château La Genestière, Cuvée Château, Tavel 2018 right off the press try it in your area here is the 2017. http://www.chateau-genestiere.com/fr/produit/aop-tavel-rose/

One of my favorite dishes is an orange duck breast. This gamay – aged 16 months in concrete egg and barrels – is surprising. It is a cheerful blend of licorice and coffee, blackberry and spices. Domaine de la Pirolette, Le Carjot, Saint-Amour. Domaine de la Pirolette St Amour

With a foie gras toast .This sweet wine has a bewitching bouquet of honey, quince paste and roasted pears. The mouth is balanced. Its sweetness does not weigh down the palate. Château La Vieille Bergerie, Quercus, Monbazillac 2014, https://www.vieille-bergerie.fr/fr/catalogue_et_commandes.html?a=82

With sea shells seafood: Domaine Laporte, owned by the Bourgeois Family, cultivates 21 hectares organically. This Sancerre comes from a part call Le Rochoy – de Silex ( flint). Ultra mineral, it has a lemon zest present on the nose. The palate is more enveloping, and you can almost perceive the yellow flesh fruits. Le Rochoy, Laporte, Sancerre. https://www.laporte-sancerre.com/maison/le-rochoy.html

With a hare stew or a doe roast . The first Saint-Estèphe vineyard to have obtained the organic label, Château de Côme is renowned for its elegant wines. This cuvée – an equal blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot – proves it. Its intense color, its flavors of wild berries and its fine tannins give a lot of relief to its tasting. Château de Côme 2015, Saint-Estèphe. More here : https://www.chateaudecome.com/boutique/produits/chateau-de-come-2015/

With a Bucco Osso. 100% Cabernet Franc, from vines over 58 years old planted on the most beautiful plots of the estate, this wine has spent 18 months in half-muids. A bit austere with its tight tannins at the start, it only gains by flourishing on a traditional dish in sauce. Eclipse n ° 12, Frédéric Mabileau, Saint Nicolas de Bourgueil, as coming closer to this region more I enjoy their wines, house wine par excellence chez moi. Just out not in webpage yet! More here: http://www.fredericmabileau.com/?page_id=11

With calf’s sweetbreads. Peach, white flower, apricot … Evocations multiply with the aromatic reading of this champagne. Without forgetting its finesse which makes it a good companion for generous dishes. Champagne Devaux, Grande Réserve. Champagne Devaux

There you go folks, another wine episode of my belle France! The wines of France that is, superbe, sublime, wonderful, gorgeous, enjoy without moderation but accompanying a meal, family table just perfect. See you in the vineyards of France

And remember, happy travels, good health, and many cheers to all !!!

Posted in Food and Wine, France | Leave a Comment »

Tags: ,
November 27, 2022

Salon de la Gastronomie et Arts Culinaires of Vannes !!!

My fav event in the area of Vannes and they continue the tradition !!!  When, I moved to the beautiful Morbihan for work duties and stayed, we heard about it, but always too many to choose from , and went elsewhere, then in 2014 got the bugs and went in; surprise was nice ! We have gone ever since, skipping a year and the virus but always here, By now many producers are known and even have delivered home and freebies !!!  This year was no exception as the 2022 Salon de la Gastronomie et des Arts Culinaires was held again at the Chorus expo center in the Parc du Golfe of Vannes.

Vannes salon de vins chorus entrance nov22

The gastronomy and wine fair was/is held November 26-28 2022 from 10h to 19h Admission is 5€ but we get in free as producers send us invitations before the event every year, Again, more than 100 exposants from wines, cheeses, jellies butcher shop, cooking classes to pots and pans on display and ready to take home, Free parking. The expo center has a big entry pavilion call Hall B, and then on the left you enter into another huge pavilion, call Hall A. The first pavilion is for the organisers, the butcher shop, cooking classes , and some food outlets. The second pavilion is where the main wine exposants and additional food stands are located.

Vannes salon de vins cooking classes stand nov22

Vannes salon de vins salon stands nov22

Again, there were some missing from last year and some new ones but we stuck to our usual contacts, There were the EARL Cousseau Boireau  stand C33 of Saint Nicolas de Bourgueil , they purchase last year a secondary home near us in St Philibert !!, and have a gîte in Saint Nicolas de Bourgueil for rental up to 6 persons right on the property, More from the town of Saint Nicolas de Bourgueil : https://stnicolasdebourgueil.fr/vignerons/vignoble-de-la-rodaie/

Vannes salon de vins vignobles cousseau boireau st nic bourgueil owners nov22

The Château Tour Birol  Côtes de Bourg,stand E 61 Bordeaux region with delicious malbec reds!!! The owner Henri has grandaugher living in Michigan USA ! Reds Malbec !He still help by his son and his wife who does the delivery of my two cases home ! In a couple of weeks in time for Christmas ! One of the very few exposants not keeping inventory with them,you taste, you buy and they delivered later to you, More from the town of Samonac, :https://samonac.com/chateaux-viticoles/chateau-tour-birol/

Vannes salon de vins chateau tour birol henri owner nov22

Caves Rougebec, Vouvray stand B12 as you enter middle range second stand , We tasted at Saint Nicolas de Bourgueil and we saw them again here, Great bubblies of the Touraine ! See at the Loire Valley Wines webpage : https://www.vinsvaldeloire.fr/fr/domaine/caves-rougebec

Before leaving we loaded on the La Fruitière De Colpo , from nearby Plumelin at stand B15 for delicious jellies of mango, sour orange, strawberries, granade, figs, and pears Williams ! Their webpage : https://lafruitieredecolpo.bzh/collections/confitures

Vannes salon de vins La Fruitière De Colpo nov22

The Pelote Basque T15 as you enter bear left all the way back , We had our Basque cheeses brebis sheep female milk cheeses which are awesome nothing than from the source, We got the espelette pepper mix as well all with a discount for us and a nice cloth bag to keep them, Next to the stand there is the restaurant basque cuisine where we had our lunch of Axoa de veau a typical Basque dish prepared with mashed  veal,  onions, tomatoes sauté and flavoured with red Espelette pepper. This dish was served on the days of fairs.Cold cuts of sausages and chorizo, and patê , a nice basque wine base sangria for apéritif and the whole meal wash down with Gorri red wine from the La Cave d’Irouléguy – AOP Irouléguy Ahh yes for dessert the Basque cake with cherries and cream for my boys, gateau basque ! All delicious in a friendly space sharing tables with another famlily, Their pelote basque webpage : https://pelote-passion.fr/

Vannes salon de vins pelote passion restaurant front table nov22

Vannes salon de vins pelote passion restaurant side table nov22

Vannes salon de vins pelote passion brebis cheeses nov22

We came to a new stand of Agerria-Daniel Dupuy from the Basque country of France, They do magic with foie gras, and different patês which we got an assortment of them ,great with the French baguette !!! webpage: https://www.agerria.com/

Vannes salon de vins Agerria basque pates stand nov22

Vannes salon de vins agerria basque pates canned nov22

The official organising of the Salon de la Gastronomie et Arts Culinaires of Vannes : https://www.saga-vannes.fr/

There you go folks, a dandy indeed! This one in Vannes is one of the best me think, And after talking with the exposants I believe it even more. Wonderful choices to complement each other and a friendly ambiance, The very best of my belle France under one roof, can’t beat it anywhere ! Already looking forward to the next one, catch it , this is France at its best for the food, the ambiance the savoir faire and all of the above !

And remember, happy travels, good health, and many cheers to all !!!

Posted in Bretagne, Europe, Food and Wine, France | Leave a Comment »

Tags: , , ,
November 27, 2022

Some news from Spain, CXXXVII

This is yours truly with another episode of some news from Spain !!! thanks to you all. There is lots of things going on in my beloved Spain, and Fall is on the half way point ! I am eagerly looking forward to be back to Spain too!! Let me tell you the latest tidbits of news chosen by yours truly, By the way CXXXVII is old Roman for 137, Enjoy it as Spain is everything under the Sun!

‘Orfeo’: the dazzling adaptation of Monteverdi’s opera shocks the Teatro Real, see it to believe it. webpage: https://www.teatroreal.es/en/show/lorfeo-0

Visits to the Valle de los Caidos or Valley of the Fallen plummeted 60% after Franco’s exhumation, popular interest in what was renamed Valle de Cuelgamuros had been trading downward for some time. In 2018 and 2019, in the midst of the socialist government’s campaign to exhume the dictator, the figures shot up to unprecedented levels. In the two years, the barrier of 300,000 visitors per year was exceeded, a figure well above the average, the day Franco left the basilica, on October 22, 2019, more than 80 journalists were accredited. the projection is that visitors to the Cuelgamuros Valley will once again fall below 200,000. I guess Franco was it there ! Despite everything, it remains in third place among the most popular monuments in Spain managed by Heritage Foundation, behind the Royal Palace and the Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial. Webpage: https://valledeloscaidos.es/


Metro of Madrid and Real Madrid will transform the Santiago Bernabéu station in 2023. The subway line 10 station, which will be more modern and accessible, will be themed and its new image will be related to the Madrid club and the history of the stadium. architectural finishes and infrastructures and the space will be equipped with technology, with new entrance turnstiles and state-of-the-art transport ticket vending machines. The works are also included in the 2021/28 Accessibility and Inclusion Plan and will allow the installation of new lifts and complementary measures to facilitate transport for all travelers. In total, 4 escalators and 12 elevators. The corridors will be removed and replaced by a large hall, in the style of other more modern Metro stations. Thus, an access with four stairs will be created that will lead from the north zone, which is the part facing the stadium, to this area. From this point you can go down eight escalators to the intermediate level walkway. And from another six to the station platforms, which will have greater capacity. The current access on the sidewalk of the pairs in front of the Santiago Bernabéu will disappear, since the future access will be even closer to the coliseum. This will be built with a temple. Real Madrid webpage: https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2022/11/24/santiago-bernabeu-metro-station-collaboration-agreement


Spain has 7,661 kms of coastline distributed between the coast of the Peninsula and the archipelagos of the Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands, as well as the autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla. Surely, your first thought was to assume that it is the popular Kilometer 0 of Madrid, one of the most photographed and popular points for tourists. However, although many think that it is the center of the capital, the truth is that this point measures the distances of the six national highways. And it is not even the geographical center of the peninsula since it has been located about 10 km to the south, on Cerro de los Ángeles, in the municipality of Getafe. We will tell you that the inhabitants who have to travel the most kilometers to reach the sea are those of a small municipality in the province of Toledo, whose name is Nombela. The closest beach to this town is Malvarrosa, in the city of Valencia, and it is 441 kms away, that is, about 4 and a half hours away with a toll. In the case of making the journey without paying, this would last up to 5 hours. and it is located at the confluence of the provinces of Toledo, Madrid and Ávila, the three provinces whose capitals are the furthest from the sea in the entire national territory. Its origin dates back to the beginning of the 12C although it did not obtain the title of town until the second half of the 17C. Among its historical complex, it has several monuments of interest such as the Hermitage of Santo Cristo de la Nava or the Parish Church of the Assumption of Our Lady. Town of Nombela webpage: https://nombela.es/historia/

During the plenary meeting held yesterday, the Museo Reina Sofía Foundation approved the acquisition of 74 works by 25 artists and groups, which will become part of the Museo Reina Sofía Collection and are valued at more than two million and half a euro This year, Susana and Ricardo Steinbruch donated a work by Mira Schendel; Marga Sánchez has donated a seminal video by Bruce Nauman, while Francesca Thyssen-Bornemisza has done the same with works by Naufus Ramírez Figueroa, Andreas Siekman, Wael Shawky and Teresa Solar; Silvia Gold and Hugo Sigman, with a collography by Belkis Ayón, and José Antonio Llorente with a work by Mercedes Azpilicueta For his part, Victor Levy has donated a painting by Jordan Kerwick; Gabriel Calparsoro, a performance by Jorge Luis Marrero; Julia Borja and Mario Cader-Frech, in unison, a portfolio of aquatints also by Naufus Martínez Figueroa; Juan Carlos Verme, a work by Amelia Toledo, while Diana López de Sifontes and Herman Sifontes have contributed 2 photographs and 3 photobooks by Fina Gómez. In turn, the Museo Reina Sofía Foundation (USA) received a donation of 7 works by Öyvind Fahlström. Donations from other individuals not members of the Foundation have also been accepted, such as a set of 5 drawings by Julie Mehretu and several works by Brazilian artists such as Lucas Arruda, Sonia Gomes, Antonio Obá or Rosana Paulino. Likewise, works donated by their own authors have been received, such as the artists Olga Dueñas, Cybèle Varela or the photographer Pedro Valtierra. For her part, the artist Eva Lootz has offered works as a donation and/or as a testamentary bequest. Three works by Mary Help of Christians have been approved for acquisition, two works by Rubem Valentim and Heitor dos Prazeres; 3 pieces from the same series by Guilherme Almeida, a set of 5 2019 flags of the Escola de Samba Estaçao Primeira de Mangueira, a woodcut by Mestre Noza, Inocêncio da Costa Nick, as well as a photobook and a set of photographs by Pedro de Moraes and Walter Firmo. To all this we must add 13 illustrations and 2 figurines by Manuela Ballester, a set of materials from the stridentista movement (publications, posters, magazines, proofs) by Ramón Alva de la Canal and other artists; two pieces from the late 50s by Max Aub and 4 arpilleras by various anonymous Chilean artists and the Vicaría de la Solidaridad Workshop. Eleven unique and vintage photographs by Leo Matiz, a film by Alejandra Riera and an acrylic by Sheroanawe Hakihiiwe have also been approved. Museum webpage: https://www.museoreinasofia.es/en/collection

The Galeria Canalejas , where luxury, glamor and the best cuisine come together. It is the new golden mile of the city. Located a few meters from Puerta del Sol, delimited by Plaza de Canalejas, Carrera de San Jerónimo and the Madrid streets of Alcalá and Sevilla. inside it houses an exclusive selection of fashion boutiques, perfumery, luxury accessories and high jewelry from the most prestigious brands in the world, such as the emblematic Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Aquazzura, Cartier, Saint Laurent, Valentino, Rolex, Omega, Zegna or Jimmy Choo, among others. In addition, it has the Beauty Gallery by Isolée space, designed for those who want to be up-to-date with the latest beauty trends. In its 4,000-square-meter Food hall, 13 Centro Canalejas Madrid restaurants meet, with which the heritage of the seven buildings on which it stands and which have witnessed the financial life of our country have been restored and recovered. The Banco Hispanoamericano (1902), Banco Español de Crédito (1920) and Banco Zaragozano (1940) were headquartered there.Webpage: https://www.galeriacanalejas.com/en/

The city of San Sebastián would not be the same without him. The emblematic María Cristina hotel turns 110 in a great moment. The Film Festival has turned it into the ‘home’ of the great actors, it offers an unbeatable breakfast and its Dry Bar is a must. Stately, elegant and an icon of San Sebastián, it was the undisputed protagonist of the belle époque since it opened its doors in 1912. One hundred and ten years later it continues to be a benchmark for luxury, home to the actors who parade for each edition of the Film Festival that is held in September in the city and an open history book that begins with the Queen Regent María Cristina, the first person to set foot in the hotel and for whom it bears her name. Located at the mouth of the Urumea River, between the beaches of La Concha and Zurriola, little by little it conquered the aristocracy of those years, who made the destination fashionable. Webpage: https://mariacristinahotelsansebastian.com-hotel.com/en/

New winds blow between the gorges of the Júcar and Huécar rivers. Cuenca has been elected Spanish Capital of Gastronomy 2023. Between heaven and earth, between the avant-garde and the Middle Ages. Cuenca, which has always given travelers more than they receive, has been chosen this week as the next Gastronomic Capital of Spain. The La Tirolina Las Hoces is the dream come true of Cristian Fernández, who has been pursuing this project for four years with the desire for a record: the cable promises to be, in addition to the longest double urban zip line in Europe, a spectacular way to briefly contemplate Cuenca in full view as a bird. Cristian has done his numbers well: They are 445 meters long, 120 meters high, and 90 kilometers per hour, just below the height of the Heart of Jesus, at the top top of Cerro del Socorro… We are talking about gastronomic dinners in places like the Puente San Pablo bridge, outdoor meals between the gorges or at the top of the MUPA, the Paleontological Museum, with fantastic views of the city. Tastings have even been organized in the Cathedral, and all mixed with music and art festivals in the streets that anticipate what will happen in the city during 2023. Another novelty is the recovery of an icon such as the Casas Colgadas or Hanging Houses, which had been closed for nine years. It has become the new adventure of chef Jesús Segura, winner of a Michelin star in his last Trivio restaurant. The new neighbor of the Museo de Arte Abstracto Español (they are wall to wall) has created two restaurants in one. In Cuenca it is impossible not to be inspired by the Museo de Arte Abstracto Español, created by Fernando Zóbel in the 1960s. These days it is semi-closed for some works that will last until the beginning of next year. Even more reason to visit the equally essential Espacio Torner and explore Cuenca’s renowned contemporary streak. This is the case of the old Gothic temple of the convent of San Pablo that houses the work of the artist Gustavo Torner from Cuenca. Not a museum to use but a space for reflection, where painting, sculpture and architecture dialogue and unite with each other. Where container and contents have the same importance. Art lovers will continue up to the Antonio Pérez Foundation in the former convent of the Discalced Carmelites, from the 17C. And those of the books, the other way around, will head towards the beautiful Plaza de la Merced. There stands the Science Museum, but also the Seminary Hostel, with modern rooms and jewels such as the chapel and a highly valuable library of 100,000 volumes. They are discovered on a walk through the Plaza Mayor where the Cathedral stands, which by the way, offers nocturnal visits to its most emblematic spaces. A few meters away, the Posada de San José, former palace of the family of Juan Bautista Martínez del Mazo, the disciple and son-in-law of Velázquez, offers accommodation and all the typical flavors (and with great views). Cuenca tourism webpage: https://visitacuenca.es/es

There you go folks, another dandy tour of my beloved Spain ! We have reach the mid point of Fall season and the leaves change , the clouds darkern and the weather cooler, and will be colder early December ; just enough to be cozy and homey again.Time to enjoy my dear Spain once again, and we are gear up for it! Hope you enjoy the post as I.

And remember ,happy travels, good health, and many cheers to all !!!

Posted in Europe, Madrid, Spain | Leave a Comment »

Tags: , , ,
November 27, 2022

Some news from France , CCCLXXVI

This is my latest from my belle France ; as we continue into the half way point of Fall season. Most said winter will be harsh and already by early December temperatures will be lower down to 3C ! However, is that time again to tell you my latest rants about some news from France. An eventful post in my blog that I have enjoyed together with you for the last 12 years (tomorrow!!) And for those non Roman CCCLXXVI is 376 ! ,with another dandy round of news of my belle France , of course, chosen by me; there are many others. We will be tidy and drinking a nice glass of wine, coming inside our dining room! Hope you enjoy the post as I.

The surroundings of the Eiffel Tower may not be renovated in time for the Olympic Games, A court decision has weighed down the ambitions of the City of Paris. It confirms the prefecture of police in its refusal to authorize the development work of the Trocadéro and the Quai Branly. Yeah ! Keep Paris as is !!

Anne Hidalgo, the mayor of Paris, has decided to file a complaint for defamation against the Minister of Public Accounts. On France Inter this Wednesday, Gabriel Attal affirmed that a system “which comes under Ponzi” exists within the City/town hall of Paris. He notably returned to the derogation which the City has long benefited from: capitalized rents. A system that allows the city to claim decades of rent in advance from social landlords. An organization that falls under the “Ponzi” system, a fraudulent financial arrangement used in particular by Bernard Maddoff, one of the biggest crooks in history, in the eyes of Gabriel Attal. When the snakes rattle there is something underneath, Stay tune…..

Janvry Christmas market: the small village of Essonne dept 91 ready to welcome 100,000 visitors ! This town of 630 inhabitants is organizing the 25th edition of its famous Christmas market from today Friday. Magical decorations, merry-go-rounds and nativity scenes from around the world: for two weekends, the crowd is expected for this unmissable end-of-year event, which brings together 140 exhibitors. To accommodate everyone, several car parks are available, especially along the parc animalier (350 places) and the pré des vaches or meadow of the cows (about 70 places). The main street of Janvry will be entirely pedestrianized. But don’t worry, the city has thought of everything: three small trains will run in a loop to bring people who want it to the market. Janvry market, today Friday from 12h to 20h., Saturday and Sunday from 10h to 19h Same hours from December 2 to 4. Free entrance. Webpage : https://janvry.fr/animations/le-marche-de-noel-de-janvry/

The La Défense Christmas market sees its opening finally postponed, It was to open this past Wednesday but it will still be necessary to wait a little longer to stroll through the aisles, between the exhibitor huts of the Paris La Défense Christmas market (Hauts-de- Seine dept 92). The opening of the 27th edition of this event, long considered the biggest Christmas market in Île-de-France region, was postponed this past Wednesday due to a negative opinion from the safety commission. The inauguration scheduled for the next day Thursday, at 18h, is also postponed. It is said might open by November 28 next Monday, Webpage : https://xmasparisladefense.com/

The Klin d’œil creative market is back for a special Christmas edition, right in the heart of the Halle du Carreau du Temple! The Klin d’œil team has already conquered the regulars of the Carreau du Temple with its creative, joyful and colorful market accompanied by numerous DIY workshops. For the end-of-year celebrations, the weekend of December 17 and 18, 70 creators take over the majestic Halle , At the heart of the market, a mulled wine, a photocall with Santa Claus and even a massage session await you for a warm moment in a Christmas atmosphere. And also, a concert, a swing ball and many other surprises! Klin d’œil market, Halle du Carreau du Temple, 2, rue Perrée 3éme Saturday December 17 from 11h to 21h30, Sunday December 18 from 11h to 19h, Free admission,Webpage : https://www.lecarreaudutemple.eu/evenements/klin-d-oeil-2022/

It is on a journey through time, into words and into life itself that Laure Adler invites us in her “Heure bleue” on France Inter. On the occasion of exhibitions (including that of the National Library of France) and the rain of publications that accompany the hundred years of Proust’s disappearance, she devotes a remarkable series in four parts to the one she playfully calls ” Marcel” as if it was above all a question of dusting him off, of refusing to make him the author of an icy cathedral and an impracticable mountain except by initiates. To begin this series, it is Jean-Yves Tadié, the great biographer of Marcel Proust, who first recalls that he was a Jewish and homosexual man at the time of the Dreyfus affair, in a largely ruthless and anti-Semitic society. That when he won the Goncourt Prize in 1919, he received a ton of insults since many would have found it fashionable to reward a veteran of the Great War (WWI) instead. In the second episode, Laure Murat recounts how her life changed by reading Marcel Proust and confides that she left her aristocratic family, never to see them again. The historian and author, who teaches Proust at UCLA (University of California at Los Angeles), speaks of the consolation that Proust provides. The following two episodes give the floor to illustrator Stéphane Manel, who publishes a graphic novel adapted from the memories of Céleste Albaret (Monsieur Proust, 256 pages, governess and confidante of Proust, and Anne Simon, research director at the CNRS, while the essential Jean-Yves Tadié comes to close this joyful series. Webpage : https://www.radiofrance.fr/franceinter/podcasts/l-heure-bleue

Amazon on Monsieur Proust book : https://www.amazon.com/Monsieur-Proust-Review-Books-Classics/dp/1590170598/

The charm of Dunkirk, sublimated by the Baron noir series, is not flashy From the port of port de grands vracs or large bulks, which sees the arrival of iron as well as exotic fruits, on the seafront of Malo-les -bains, the tourist spot of the city, the North Sea brings the city to life at the same time as it offers it a permanent spectacle. the Braek dyke is sublime from the first light of day. To the west of Dunkirk, after the port, this strip of land is covered with bitumen for more than 6 kms. The site, reputedly closed to the public despite its intense attendance, is spectacular: you have to imagine a kind of airstrip with holes in it, Dunkirk tourist office : https://www.dunkirk-tourism.com/things-to-do/

The private Canal Plus on the Baron Noir Series : https://www.canalplus.com/series/baron-noir/h/6251363_50001

A Sausage Walk with lots of dachshunds to cuddle in the heart of Paris On Sunday December 4 2022 from 11h to 13h, for a Sunday walk between the Mirabeau and Alma bridges. The Paris Sausage Walk offers a solidarity axis and aims to collect donations for the association Teckels Sans Doux Foyer. To become a donor, all you have to do is buy bags, posters or badges available on site. The Assoc webpage : https://www.teckelsansdouxfoyer.org/presentation.html

The Paris living on the sausage walk : https://vivreparis.fr/la-sausage-walk-une-marche-de-teckels-organisee-a-paris/

Next spring, the Louis Vuitton Foundation will unveil a huge cross-exhibition dedicated to the “four-handed” creations of Jean-Michel Basquiat and Andy Warhol. A look back at one of the greatest friendships in contemporary art. Headliners: Basquiat and Warhol come together in a must-see exhibition. This unique exhibition offers you a rich and crossed journey between the two legends of contemporary art, to be discovered from next April 2023, Throughout this journey, you will discover more than 100 common paintings retracing the fruitful collaboration between the two artists . Basquiat x Warhol, Four Hands is the most important exhibition ever dedicated to this singular work. Following their meeting in 1982, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Andy Warhol developed a great bond and produced nearly 160 paintings together, almost daily! This intense collaboration will give birth to original works, some of which will even be among the greatest of their respective careers. Basquiat x Warhol – À quatre mains, Louis Vuitton Foundation, 8, avenue du Mahatma-Gandhi 16éme ,From April 5 to August 28, 2023, , webpage : https://www.fondationlouisvuitton.fr/fr/evenements/basquiat-x-warhol-a-quatre-mains

In the context of the global energy crisis,(brought on my incapable politicians we continue vote for!) Vincennes has decided not to install its traditional ephemeral ice rink this winter. To achieve significant energy savings in the face of rising gas and electricity prices, the town decided this year to replace it with a 600 m2 roller skate track. This “more sober” installation will be set up on the esplanade of the Hôtel de Ville for Christmas. The track will host 4 themed parties (Roaring Twenties, 50s, 80s and 2000s). Experienced riders will be able to evolve on the surface without constraint and the youngest will be able to learn in complete safety in an area which will be reserved for them, in the presence of a UCPA animator. Val de Marne dept 94 tourist office on the event : https://www.tourisme-valdemarne.com/agenda/piste-de-roller-de-noel-a-vincennes/

It is at Port de la Gare, at the foot of the National Library of France, that Quai de la photo will open its doors in May 2023. Free exhibitions, a festive place to live and an integrated marina, this new multi-purpose structure has many surprises in store for you ! The floating art center will host temporary and permanent exhibitions with free access on an area of ​​more than 1000 m2. Something to delight photography enthusiasts who will discover both the big names in contemporary photography, but also many emerging French and foreign artists With its integrated marina, Quai de la photo will also offer excursions aboard small boats (100% electric of course). And if you are looking for an exceptional place to organize an event, the floating art center can even be privatized!Quai de la photo berges de Seine – rive gauche or Left Bank, Port de la Gare 13éme Free admission, Webpage : https://quaidelaphoto.fr/

Ouessant and Molène, the islands at the end of the world, the two islands planted off the high seas of Pointe Saint-Mathieu have a unique history and identity in this Iroise Sea subject to the excesses of the weather.

Molène, eyes in the sea, Leaving from Ouessant, it only takes 30 minutes to reach Molène by boat , A tour of the island on foot! (There are no cars). A short hike of 1h15 to take in the sea air. From the very quiet port, the path runs along the east and then south coast. Mounds of fresh seaweed cling to the shore. The potent smell appeals to gulls, which greedily dip their beaks. In front of the pyramidal landmark and up to Beg ar Loued (southern tip of the island), the sun in backlight iridescent the greenish blue sea. There are a few dry stone walls there that give this Breton island an air of Ireland… At the Pointe de Roëlen, a rock higher than the others, the island culminates at 26 meters , gives a view of Ouessant , the islets and the line of gray roofs of the village of Molène, surmounted by the spire of the Saint-Ronan Church. Head for the village, completing the tour by a ribine or path and the statue of Notre-Dame-du-Bon-Retour. What remains to be seen is the church, its English cemetery and the Drummond Castle museum. And then the frescoes of the Abri Roussin,or shelter ; the Calvary, the semaphore, the soda ovens, once used to burn seaweed. A whole small heritage witnessing a subsistence and mutual aid economy turned towards the ocean.

The Ponant islands on Molène : https://www.iles-du-ponant.com/iles/ile-de-molene/

The local Irose Brittany tourist office on Molène island : https://www.iroise-bretagne.bzh/itineraire/lile-molene/

On Yusin Beach, on the north coast, on a stormy day, the spectacle of waves crashing against the rocks of Ouessant Island is mesmerizing. At the Créac’h lighthouse, the show is also spellbinding. It is at the Ponte de Pern that the piece reaches its heights. Due west, the cape receives with mute self-sacrifice , it is used to it, all the anger accumulated by the ocean. Packets of water exploding on the rock, mush of shaggy foam, iodized explosions slapping the faces. Hypnotic! The charms of Lampaul in the capital there are rites: go buy Le Télégramme newspaper as soon as you see the plane from Brest arriving; have a coffee at the bar-tabac Ty Butun; look at the window of the Ouessant Image gallery, by photographer Dominique Baot, a tireless surveyor of the island; finish the day at the pub Ty Korn (the “Tyk”), justice of the peace for Ouessant evenings. How good it is then to be sheltered after dark when the raging ocean harasses the last inhabited land of western France !

The Ponant islands on Ouessant : https://www.iles-du-ponant.com/iles/ile-douessant/

The Ouessant island tourist office : https://ot-ouessant.fr/phares-navigation.html

At FC Versailles, the first on the bench with the Brazilian Cris, the former player of Olympique Lyonnais has been the new Versailles coach for a week. He will experience his baptism of fire on the bench this Friday, November 25 in Villefranche-sur-Saône on behalf of the 13th day of National league. On a grass half-pitch at the Porchefontaine stadium in Versailles (Yvelines 78), Welcome to Versailles !! webpage : https://fcversailles.com

Three years separate the first from the second edition of the Grand Prix for the best Parisian pastry. The culinary event launched in 2019 was therefore back yesterday Thursday with twelve participants and a very specific theme: Parisian gardens. The prize was awarded to pastry chef Jordan Talbot for his piece “Autumn Wake”. who works at Maison Lucas Carton, located at 9, place de la Madeleine, in the 8éme arrondissement of Paris, On the podium, the works “Fleur de Miel”, by Hugo Spiesser-Ferrette (Christophe Michalak pastry shop) and ” L’Idylle” by Louise Riot (hotel-restaurant Molitor) came second and third respectively.

After the success of the first edition of Chez Monix last winter, the bistro welcomes you back to its chalet with gondola, fireplace, raclette, unlimited fondue and mulled wine of course! Discover a charming mountain village in the heart of a forest of fir trees, for an immersion in the atmosphere of skiing, just 10 minutes from the Porte Maillot. You can also board the barge of the Splash to enjoy a good seafood platter in the restaurant La mer à verre. And in addition, Chez Monix offers you to privatize your gondola to spend a privileged moment with your loved ones! Other venues at Là-Haut in Suresnes, Sapristi in Rueil Malmaison, Saperlipopette in Puteaux, Le Bistrot Pas Parisien in Colombes and Bistrot Top Chef in Suresnes offer you the flavors of the mountains just outside Paris! Chez Monix Port Van Gogh, Asnières-sur-Seine (Hauts de Seine 92) , Webpage : https://lesbistrotspasparisiens.com/

There you go folks, another round of my some news from France coming to you freely by the road warrior travel guy . Hope you enjoy this post and do take the air of the Fall season with style in France better ,me think,,, And remember, happy travels, good health, and many cheers to all !!!

Posted in Bretagne, France, Paris, Versailles | Leave a Comment »

Tags: , , ,
  |  
%d bloggers like this: