Vacations and Libations

About the Book

This is a summary of European travel notes and experiences of Scott, Melanie and Drew Bailey complied over a fifteen year period 1995 – 2011. It is not a travel guide, comprehensive wine book nor is it a substitute for the encyclopedic dining guides. We report on our food, wine and travel experiences; Highly Recommended (excellent); Recommended (very good/good) or Not Recommended. In certain circumstances, we may defer as Judgment Reserved. Our trip style is in the nature of assimilating into European culinary and oenological life and living it as a native does, rather than a tourist on a once-in-a-lifetime European grand swing to see all the touristic sights.

These notes are presented to the reader as a series of regional experiences and practical tips that should increase your enjoyment of participating in the finer points of French and European ways of life. These are our personal recommendations, which you may find helpful in making plans for your own gastronomical and vinous travels and explorations.

Bonne Journée, et Bon Appétit!

About the Author

Scott A. Bailey is a seasoned international and domestic traveler, with over forty years of ‘road warrior’ experience for business and pleasure. We Baileys are not ‘in the business’ professionals, but rather ‘wellinformed amateurs’ who take seriously our avocational pursuits of culinary and oenological excellence. Our credentials include countless visits to notable and credentialed tables and wineries in France, Europe and the United States. The author holds memberships in four prestigious, international wine organizations and brotherhoods. His many friends in these organizations acknowledge his refined palate and affinity for properly matching wines with foods and their preparation styles.