Sat 12 Jul- Chateau de Hautefort, Bovetti Chocolate factory

http://hutchings.smugmug.com/ (photos)

Sat 12 Jul- cloudy and cool about 19 C. Head to the famous Chateau de Hautefort [http://www.chateutau-hautefort.com], a historical monument with formal gardens. It's an impressive structure, on a hilltop commanding the surrounding countryside. It has nteresting architecture, furnishings and gardens. The gardens were past their peak, and many were being replanted. The topiary was nice, but not so many blooming flowers.
Then have lunch at 'Relais de Gourmets' in Terrasson: 1/4 bottle house rose wine, cafe, cafe au lait, bacon, lettuce & tomato salad, goose gizzard salad (no really, it's good!).
On to the Bovetti Chocolate factory, for the history of cocoa and demonstration of the manufacture of chocolate from the beans, and tasting (YUM!). It was informative, including the news that chocolate does not cause acne, obesity or headaches; it helps prevent cancer, high blood pressure, arteriosclerosis; makes you feel invigorate and good, and more. Although more expensive than what we usually get, we bought some of the interesting flavors.
Then to the 'Les Jardins de l'Imaginaire' for a tour of the famous garden, created by an American, which blends myth, history, geography with plants [http://www.ot-terrasson.com/] (I leave the translation of the website and the following menu to the audience)
Returning to the chateau, we had a delicious gourmet dinner: 1/2 bottle Muscadet Chateau du Coingo de St. Fiacre white; 'Farci de thon rouge et de chair de crabe, coulis de peau de concombre a la menthe fraiche'; 'saudre roti sur citronelle bulbe, aioli de patates douces aux zestes de combawa egreure de riz venere'. In addition, they served plates with several hors d'ouvres before and after the entree and main dish. It was unique and delicious, a very pleasurable and tasty experience.