My French Country Home

MFCH is a luxurious bi-monthly publication which features the greatest elements of French life. Join us as we explore lush gardens, bustling brocantes, the elegance of baking from scratch, and living simply but well. Our pages will transport you not only to the glamour of Paris, but to the sweeping lavender fields of Provence and the rolling hills of Normandy.

Editor’s Letter

Contributors • We are delighted to have the following talented writers and photographers contribute to this issue.

Fire & Ice • For more than 25 years, Michel Joly has lived among the storied vineyards of Burgundy, contemplating the notions of terroir and territory and the intimate, often complex relationship between the local economy and the environment. In recent years, Michel’s photographs have touched more and more on the theme of climate change and its consequences for the region’s winegrowers, as they struggle to adapt to conditions once almost unknown to their forebears.

QUOI DE neuf?* • What caught our eye this month

An Air of Nobility • From a neglected caretaker’s cottage to a chic country retreat with an aristocratic feel, this small home is an accomplished social climber. The vintage property and exquisite garden have come full circle to become a harmonious weekend hideout.

Sports d’Hiver Travel Posters • The holidays may be over, but the spirit of travel never ceases. Now is the time of year when many thrill-seekers, chalet-lovers and après-ski enthusiasts head to the slopes. A winter vacation to the French Alps may seem like a highly desirable escape today, but this was not always the case.

Gardens Within Gardens • Despite their relative youth, the Jardins d’Étretat — the “neo-futuristic” gardens that extends over the cliffs of the Alabaster Coast, on the coast of Normandy — somehow offer the impression that they’ve always been there. Let us take you on a journey through this dreamlike haven interspersed with works of art…

Winter Romance • Winter is all around, but that doesn’t mean you have to go without fresh flowers! A bouquet reflecting the frosty whites and cozy neutrals of the season makes a wonderful centerpiece to brighten your home until the warm sun and spring blossoms return. Take inspiration from our friend and expert florist, Catherine Muller, for a vibrant winter bloom.

French Braids • For two centuries, the Pichon family has reigned among the top ceramics makers of France in a small village called Uzès, in the Gard region. Admired for their elegant and distinctly Provençal designs, Maison Pichon’s handmade creations grace many of the finest tables in France and are quickly building an international following.

The Conquering of the Escargot • To truly immerse yourself in a foreign culture, one must, without a doubt, experience the local cuisine. Those who have ventured to France have likely tried the country’s well-known classics: soupe à l’oignon, boeuf bourguignon, coq au vin… maybe even foie gras. But only the most courageous of Francophiles know what it is like to wrestle with a tiny pitchfork and slippery, butter-drenched shell to indulge in what could be the ultimate French delicacy: les escargots.

Home at Last • A travel-obsessed family has finally settled on a home base on the heights of Aix-en-Provence. In a magnificently redesigned ancient farmhouse, Florence, her husband and their four children have found a respite overlooking fields of olive trees.

Get The Look • Be inspired by Florence’s relaxed take on Provençal style

Brioche, croissant & Company • Whether it’s for a decadent morning breakfast or an indulgant afternoon snack, brioche is always a good idea. To discover the secrets of these delightful pastries and other flaky viennoiseries, dive into these gourmet recipes that are just oh, so...