Valentines Gift Guide There is no reason to wait for February 14th to show your affection. However, not acknowledging Valentine’s Day might not be a solid love strategy. So, to help with your shopping, we have pulled together this Valentines Gift Guide with suggestions that won’t break the bank and …

“Creating beautiful and personalized memories of Provence.” ~ Raina Stinson Private Photo Workshop One of the many joys of returning to Provence last year was meeting Raina Stinson and participating in a photo workshop. We arrived at Raina’s home studio on a crisp fall morning to discuss our goals for …

Have you ever dreamed of painting in the place where Paul Cézanne, Vincent van Gogh, Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso and many others found inspiration? If so, join Jill Steenhuis, an American who has spent four decades studying the same landscapes as these masters, for a painting week in Provence. Provence …

Why does Mark get this 15 minutes of fame? Because even though it’s my birthday dinner, today’s recipe — his “Chicken Marccata” recipe — takes but 15 minutes to make and less time to eat, if you like it as much as I do. Yes, Mark can cook and could …

It’s not often that I consider bottles from a “big box” wine store for this column. With the exception of a few quality rosés I have gotten (and written about) from such stores, their selection of rosé wines is generally geared towards the Carries and Mirandas. Pretty bottles/labels, intense pink …

As you know, I am a big fan of traditional foods. One of my favourites is the Tarte Tatin, an upside-down apple tart. While there are many upside-down tarts and cakes in French cuisine (tartes renversées, gateaux renversés), the Tatin is made with apples. The Tarte Tatin was created (by …

If you have never tried a dish with fresh black truffles, it’s hard to know what all the fuss is about. Once your tastebuds have connected the earthy aroma and the intense flavour, you begin to comprehend why chefs refer to these fungi as “black diamonds,” among other labels. To …

We asked Susan Tipton of  Acquiesce Winery to curate our Winter Menu for 2022. She selected three French recipes (starter, main course, and dessert) and paired them with a selection of Acquiesce wines. This winter menu highlights the flavours of France along with California wine pairings. If you live in …

Holiday Wishes! It’s time to wish everyone all the best for this joyful season – Happy, Healthy Holidays! However, before we head out on a technology break, it’s time to acknowledge all our terrific contributors. Inspired by Provence Lynne launched Aixcentric intending to post current events happening in and around …

Once again, I am playing with a recipe from The NY Times. They had a roast chicken recipe that I liked… well, sort of. Honestly, it sounded like a mess on a plate, and I really like to present things with great eye appeal and great flavour. Well, that and …