Mushrooms in Corrèze

Mushroom-Gathering in Haute-Corrèze

September is the beginning of the mushroom season here on the Millevaches plateau.

To gather our share of nature's bounty, we set off this morning into the Corrèze forest in search of the cèpe, a much-appreciated local mushroom.

We returned from our outing among the oaks and beeches, delighted at the weight of our brimful baskets...  Then, following our hosts' advice, we fried our cèpes up with some garlic and parsley - a real treat!

It was a really enjoyable family outing!!

Grape-picking in Vaucluse

Time to Bring in the Harvest!

Winemakers are expecting this year's yield to be modest, having watched in dismay as lack of sunshine during July meant that their grapes had a hard time ripening.

But there's no cause for concern - they have high hopes for the quality!

If you get the chance, why not join in the grape-picking, or simply come and watch the harvest being brought in on the hillsides of Châteauneuf du Pape, Beaumes de Venise, Vacqueyras or Gigondas.

Otherwise, make plans to visit the different wine domains in 2012, when you will be able to meet the vintners and enjoy tastings of their famous Côtes du Rhône, Côteaux du Ventoux, and other wines from the various village Appellations.

Time to Bring in the Harvest!

Winemakers are expecting this year's yield to be modest, having watched in dismay as lack of sunshine during July meant that their grapes had a hard time ripening.

But there's no cause for concern - they have high hopes for the quality!

If you get the chance, why not join in the grape-picking, or simply come and watch the harvest being brought in on the hillsides of Châteauneuf du Pape, Beaumes de Venise, Vacqueyras or Gigondas.

Otherwise, make plans to visit the different wine domains in 2012, when you will be able to meet the vintners and enjoy tastings of their famous Côtes du Rhône, Côteaux du Ventoux, and other wines from the various village Appellations.

Open days at Pineau des Charentes

Pineau des Charentes

The wine-makers at Pineau des Charentes are happy to welcome visitors all summer.

They'll show you the secrets of the vintner's craft, and you'll be able to taste the finished product at the end of your visit.

For more information, call the Tourist Office at Haute-Saintonge - 05.45.32.09.27