It will already be late summer. Warm breezes will allow us to enjoy the season, which will no longer be unbearably hot but still warm enough for dinners in the garden, swims in the pool, or moments with a book and a glass of wine in hand.

Nonetheless, I do hope you will join me and others for four cooking classes over the course of these three days. Upon arrival, we will begin with a simple summer meal, champagne (bien sûr), and a wine tasting hosted by none other than Raimonds Tomsons (ASI Best Sommelier of the World 2023).

Afterwards, the house will be filled with the enticing aromas of local fish, meat, and vegetables cooking, bread crust cracking, olive oil splashing, and wine bottle corks popping, which will undoubtedly draw everyone down to the kitchen. These three days, spent in the finest company (after all, people who cook together enjoy life together), will be a journey through this incredibly rich regional and French cuisine, using only local and seasonal products. From organic vegetables sourced at a local farm to black pork, fish, duck, fruits, oils, and cheeses, the ingredients will reflect the best of the region. The bread, so fresh and crusty, will also come from a biodynamic wheat grower and baker, along with hazelnuts and hazelnut oil.

As mentioned before, this weekend will be made extra special by the presence of a very distinguished guest—a man who needs no introduction: Raimonds Tomsons, ASI Best Sommelier of the World 2023. Raimonds is a man with unparalleled knowledge and a true passion for wine. Having known him for many years, I can confidently say that he is the most generous and gracious sommelier I have ever met. He exemplifies the very best in hospitality, making guests feel both welcomed and knowledgeable, while inspiring them to learn so much—even in a conversation lasting just two minutes.

Not only will he carefully select wines for all the meals (and believe me, when he does, everyone savours every sip), but he will also host two exclusive degustations/masterclasses on regional wines during these days. This is a rare and extraordinary opportunity to learn from someone so accomplished and in demand. Additionally, during the Burgundy weekend, we will visit a winery together with him.

A little note on the wines:

You will enjoy wines that many of you have never had the chance to taste before, and perhaps may never again. These will be truly special wines.

Manufacture Royale in photos


Approximate plan

1st day

13:00–16:00
Arrival and welcome: Enjoy a welcome drink and a lunch prepared by me, featuring products sourced from local growers.
Time to relax: Take a walk or a refreshing swim in the pool.
Wine degustation with Raimonds Tomsons.

17:30–Late Evening

Masterclass and dinner:
Preparation of various dishes for dinner.
Wine pairings to complement the dishes.
Table setting, featuring flowers from a local organic farm.
Dinner: Dine in the garden (weather permitting) or in the stunning dining hall.

2nd day

8:00–9:00
Breakfast

9:15–11:00
Market visit in Lectoure: Shop for fresh, local ingredients for the day ahead.

11:15–15:00
Masterclass and lunch: Create a simple yet fabulous lunch using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Enjoy it with champagne and local wine.

15:30–17:00
Wine degustation with Raimonds Tomsons.

17:30–Evening
Masterclass and dinner
Preparation of various dishes for dinner.
Wine pairings to complement the dishes.
Table setting, featuring flowers from a local organic farm.
Dinner: Dine in the garden (weather permitting) or in the stunning dining hall.

3rd day

9:00–10:00
Breakfast

11:00–15:00
Lunch masterclass and lunch

Departure
If you wish, you are welcome to stay longer.

The menu is still being finalised, but rest assured—it will be generous, abundant, and absolutely delicious.


Prices and Accommodation

You can book the entire house and enjoy the full experience for €13,000.00 (for 5–10 people, depending on room-sharing arrangements). This is a special offer, reduced from €15,500.00.

Alternatively, individual rooms are available:

€3,800 per room (1 or 2 people)
€3,800 per room (1 or 2 people)
€3,800 per room (1 or 2 people)
€4,000 per room (1 or 2 people)
€4,100 per room (1 or 2 people)

All rooms are with double beds.

Prices and Accommodation

The prices listed are per room, regardless of whether it is occupied by one or two people—that choice is yours.

If your partner or guest prefers not to participate in the cooking classes, they are welcome to skip those and join for all the meals.

What’s Included:
Accommodation
All food and drinks
Masterclasses
Visits
Some delightful surprises!

To Book
To secure your place, contact me at signe@storyaboutfood.com.

Important:

Your place is confirmed only after payment is received.
Payment is required at the time of booking.
Once booked, the experience is non-refundable.