Monday, June 17, 2013

Celtic Concert at Le Caillau


Sunday, June 16th, 2013

A drive through the vineyard lined lanes and roads in the Lot Valley will lead you to .... 
Le Caillau Restaurant Café Atelier.

Le Caillau, 46700 Vire-sur-Lot, France
www.lecaillau.com
Tél (0565) 237804

This is one of our most favourite restaurants for many reasons.

It's buildings and location are idyllic and full of old world charm set amidst the vineyards providing an unique ambiance. 

Along with the French Chef, the owners Chas and Caroline have created an innovative menu using fresh, seasonal and local products and for those of us who have a sweet tooth there are the delicious, fresh baked goods and sweet desserts on the Cake Counter.

Tonight a special evening -  a "soirée musicale" with "The Rogues" a Celtic Blues Band was being held in the wonderful setting of Le Caillau's courtyard.

The weather could not have been any more perfect with sunshine and warm temperatures.

It was an amazing evening and as Monsieur Honey and I say "A Magic Time" ... 








We were entertained by the Rogues, there is nothing better than live music.
Mike Carley on the guitar and vocals and Chris Powell on the harmonica(s).
Visit their website to see where they are playing next and if you a get a chance go listen and watch their show.   www.therogues.fr  



Here's a short tape of the music... See bottom of post.

Check out this video on YouTube:

http://youtu.be/WszFc7-NQOM


Great music, great tasting wine...and delicious food.


The menu...

A selection of tapas artistically presented on a slate tile...delectable nibbles of breaded courgettes, fresh tuna, Parma ham, dried salami, hummus, fresh pepper slices, arugula and a delicious spicy red pepper jelly/chutney....
which I think may be Le Caillau's own Chili Jam.


The main was a " Thai green chicken and vegetable curry over basmati rice which was perfectly spiced and delicious.

And the delectable finishing touch ... Strawberry tart with Chantilly cream.










 And as the sun set it was time to say "Au revoir!" to old and new friends.


Try Le Caillau for a coffee break, lunch, aperitifs or dinner, and don't forget to check out the pottery painting activities... And checkout their website for all they have to offer.









Saturday, June 15, 2013

Bon Voyage, Monsieur Guy!

This past Friday, found us travelling the roads to Bergerac to deliver Monsieur Guy in time for for his flight to Charleroi, Belgium.
After a fine send off with a "Ricard" toast for a safe trip, we three ... Monsieur Honey, Madame M  and myself started our return trip to Dégagnac.


                              

Madame M suggested a visit / stop in Monbazillac.
The Château de Monbazillac built in the 16th century is listed as a Historical Monument, and here you will see original architecture from the defensive styles of the Middle Ages and also early Renaissance design. 
The wine cooperative,  Monbazillac Cellar Company has owned the Château since 1960.
The terraced gardens offer amazing panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and the Dordogne Valley.















   
    " Okay Ladies... what's next? "






Next stop on our road trip ... Chateau Biron near Monpazier.
Château de Biron is also listed as a Historical Monument and described as an outstanding architectural site from the 12th to 18th centuries.













  Our "Molly" the GPS directed us through some beautiful scenery on the drive home...


    Last stop for some sustenance at ...
    Restaurant La Casserole
    33 Rue Haute
    46340 Salviac
    Tel. 0565 415787



    Great tasting bowl of hot homemade soup... 
    Creamy asparagus! 


    Gambas ...supremely yummy!


    Chicken with mushroom sauce... Delicious!


    
    Merci beaucoup for a wonderful day!