Bastille Day has turned into a two-week celebration with the help of  the Rhone Valley Wine Council and their partner, Maitres Cuisiniers de France, the Master Chefs of France. “Two Countries, Two Holidays, Two Weeks of French Culinary Delights” aptly describes the special chef menus: 3-courses, $30 prix fixe. “Celebrate Summer the French Way” continues until July 18th at a significant number of restaurants throughout the country.

French chefs view this as an opportunity to highlight the versatility of the Cotes du Rhones, the reds, whites, and roses, and show how they pair perfectly with the seasonal ingredients that highlight any French meal. The website has a complete list of participating restaurants. Check for the individual menus as many of the chefs plan separate menus for each week.

As for the Cotes du Rhones, there are over 6,000 wine grape growers in the Rhone River region between Lyon and Avignon. One should have little problem finding his favorite Rhone wine for everyday drinking at home, too. They pair wonderfully with so many summer dishes.

The promotion is a perfect excuse to Dine Out, Enjoy Summer, and Celebrate French cuisine.

Then take your new French recipe food and wine guide (a present from the participating restaurants) and create perfectly paired French-style meals, regardless of the season.

Bonne Chance.