We have a new venue in France, a restored winemaker’s chateau on the Canal du Midi. Chateau Ventenac is a large gracious house with a big country house kitchen which should be fun to cook in. There’s a great terrace to dine at, overlooking the Canal and also a pool for relaxation. The classes will revolve around the menus that we eat and the food producers and markets that we visit. There are also visits to the local vineyards and wine tasting. This location is easily accessed by Carcassonne airport
The terrace is a perfect spot for aperitifs and the garden around the pool can offer sunny or shady spots for those who want to chill outside with a book or jump in the pool. Each day begins with simple breakfast of bread and croissants, after which the day becomes a feast, The local food producers and winemakers are generous with their time and knowledge and the days are spent exploring vineyards, visiting the local cheese maker,and markets where we gather provisions to take home and cook. The menus are a celebration of local ingredients and recipes used of the south. Bouillabaisse, Cassoulet and duck would be typical. The fruits and vegetables are young and abundant, full of the flavour of the sun. Mid week, there is an opportunity to discover the city of Carcassonne.
