Our recent trip in France took us to Savennieres for a visit with Nicolas Joly on the day following the summer solstice- a very important day of the year for this celebrated guru of biodynamy.

The summer solstice is a very important day for a vine. The vine is waiting for sun to land on earth. This is what happens at the summer solstice. It withholds its flowering process for the time when the sun lands on earth. The vines flowering closest to the solstice produce the best wines. -Nicolas Joly

After a tour of the stunning La Coulée de Serrant in the midsummer twilight, we made our way for what would become an exciting culinary discovery. Nestled in a corner facing the striking Loire river and its sandy banks, La Croisette could be easily be mistaken for a fishing cabin if it was not for the mouthwatering flavors filling the air and the beautiful garden. La Croisette is a new venture from the intrepid Isabelle and J-Paul Feuvray whose vast culinary passions lead to a diverse array of experiences that include a stint in Texas. They opened their first Tex Mex restaurants in the 1980s followed by a steakhouse in the 1990s. Returning to their roots, they created this open air barbecue on the tiny island of Behuard in 2004. While there, we enjoyed river fish and some of the most delicious barbecued ribs that we have ever tasted!

Joined by Nicolas Joly, another passionate explorer who ultimate decided to return to his roots (in his case literally), and his remarkable 1989 and 2004 vintages of La Coulée de Serrant the pairing was complete. As our meal ended and the sun finally made its descent, La Croisette proved the perfect venue in which to savor a magical evening in an enchanted region over a cuban cigar and great conversation.

La Croisette | Rue de La Boire, Béhuard

La Croisette - restaurant - guinguette à Béhuard

La Croisette and La Coulée de Serrant: A Heavenly Match Made in the Loire