The 2023/24 Network Provence season ended on a high note with a wine tasting at the wonderful Racine’s in Bonnieux. Jess and Pierre, the Luberon’s favourite ‘caviste couple’, shared some of their preferred summer wines, two roses and a white, in a tasting set to prepare us for the summer ahead. Besides a rosé from Corsica’s Domaine de Leccia, the standout favourites were Cadet de La Begude for its drinkability and price point, and the white we shared was loved by all-L’Odalisque de Sylvain Morey, which is set to be a summer star, produced in the Luberon.
Jess talked us through why they chose these three wines, and judging by the refills; she was right on the mark for what we would enjoy. This couple knows their profession and can answer most questions, as evidenced by our curious attendees. We learned about regional differences, discussed the myths of pink depths in rosés and found some interesting facts about what happens to wines that are exported and rack up the travel miles. Comme d’habitude, Jess and Pierre let their passion for wine shine with great enthusiasm, knowledge, and good humour. They break the mould of stuffy wine stereotypes and bring a sparkle of enjoyment to learning about the intricacies of our region’s favourite beverage.
Meanwhile, Network Provence welcomed newcomers and regulars with interest and laughter, which is always a feature of meetings. We have had a brilliant season of meetings in Aix, and at our new meeting place the Cafe de la Gare in Bonnieux. Events this year have included talks with Nora Jaccaud, photography with Raina Stinson, an art exhibition with Miriam Hartmann featuring NP members, floral arranging with Helen Puillandre, Hypnotherapy with Mei Yee, storytelling with Sabine Copinga, to name some of the special programs at our meetings. We have also attended many art openings and other local events and used our connections to the fullest! It is proven that connection is one of the most important elements in longevity and happiness. There is no better group in Provence to find community and connections among like-minded women than Network Provence. I think I speak for everyone and give big gratitude to our leader, Rebecca Ronane, for founding such a wonderful group full of networking potential, friendship opportunities, and a creative connection hub.
Although meetings will be paused for July and August, make sure you follow along through Facebook and Instagram to see what wonders the women of Provence are creating and doing over the summer. Now is also an excellent time to review your membership status and revise any ads you have on the website. Keeping others updated on what you do and what you have to offer is a key point of being in a group such as NP. You should also have a look to see what others are up to as well.
Wishing everyone a wonderful summer until we meet again in September!
Written by Maryna Fontenoy for Network Provence
Well, that was a surprise! 
