There is something undeniably romantic about sunny screens of the vendange which has started this week in Chateauneuf-du-Pape, the most celebrated cru of the southern Rhone. The appellation takes its name from the time when the poppies were in Avignon and many of the wines are from some of the oldest vines in France. The estates select from a range of 13-15 grape varieties to create some outstanding wines which share the characteristic notes of fresh red and black cherries, raspberries and black pepper. Recently I visited three of the best estates: Chateau Nerthes, Chateaux Vieux Télégraphe, Chateau Mont Redon to sample the products of their beautiful terroirs.

Aubergines (or eggplants as they are known in North America) are the ultimate summer vegetable, adding colour to the market stands all through the summer. Look for a smaller aubergine (less water) and one with a dark glossy skin and a firm texture when touched. Loved by chefs for the ability to taken on flavours, they are easy to prepare for the barbecue or as an ingredient in such Provencal specialties as ratatouille or caviar d'abergine (an eggplant dip) which is much enjoyed by the locals in Provence.

Summer’s arrival unveils a new selection of marine delicacies in Provence: la dorade (sea-bream), les sardines, la sole, les anchois, le mulet, le rouget, le bar, le maquereau, le lieu jaune (pollock), le merlan (whiting), turbot, le thon blanc are all local and at their best right now.

One of my favorite fish in summer is dorade grise, a sought after salt-water fish, native to the Mediterranean, known for gracing the classic bouillabaisse de Marseille, but even more delicious when grilled or baked, as it stays succulent with full rich flavour.

A few years back we were greet in the Spring to the screeching sounds of a male pheasant. Apparently he was seeking to attract hens to his domaine newly set-up on La Raffine. His screeching and strutting about every morning and evening quickly became a source of amusement and we sought to learn as much as we could about our new neighbour.

Years later, Alphonse thinks he owns the place. In some cultures, the pheasant is considered a symbol of good fortune, abundance, and prosperity, as well as a representation of beauty, elegance, and grace so we take it as a compliment that he has decided to make his residence here.