Last summer, we took a family trip to Bordeaux, France. As a chef, visiting France is like a homecoming of sorts. You're in the heart of where modern culinary techniques came to be, and you really get a chance to appreciate all of the care and attention placed on dining. It was also great sharing this experience with our children. We love exposing them to new cultures and cuisines, and hope their curiosity about the world continues once they're grown and on their own.
While there, we took the opportunity to visit several wineries and try all the local delicacies. We explored Saint-Émilion, visited the barrel room at Cos d'Estournel, drove by Pétrus, ate Foie Gras to our heart's content, drove a stick shift on tiny streets through tiny towns, and fell absolutely in love with Bordeaux! We couldn't wait to get home and build a wine dinner around the region.
Jean-Sebastien Calvet, from the Aquitaine Wine Company, came to tell us all about his childhood home, and the world-famous wines that it produces. We couldn't have partnered with a better person. Jean-Sebastien is a 7th generation négociant and direct descendant of Jean-Marie Calvet, whom founded the Calvet Winery. His first hand knowledge of the region's rich wine history and culture was both fascinating and informative. It made us want to hop on a plane and see it all again!
Just a few of our favorite memories....