For something more substantial, try the inn's own delicately tangy sheep's cheese wrapped in grape leaves and marinated in Provencal herbs served warm from the grill.

In a still in his bedroom Ricard experimented with creating a more refined version, using, among other things, star anisee, fennel seeds, liquorice and Provencal herbs.

Chicken and foie gras terrine, flavored with Provençal herbs, is fresh, pink and clean-flavored, a small gem.

Among the entrees are the coulibiac (salmon fillet and mushrooms in puff pastry), scallops in saffron sauce, and lamb chops with Provencal herbs.

The best seafood dish sampled was monkfish seasoned with Provencal herbs and garnished with black olives, cabbage and a creamy gratin of potatoes.

Main courses were the best: a special of roasted pork stuffed with brandy-soaked prunes and tasty gratineed potatoes, and rare-cooked lamb with Provencal herbs.

The fuller wine, the authors say, marries well with the Provencal herbs and garlic in the marinade.

The French braised the shank with Provencal herbs, or used it to make headcheese or other terrines.

Or try the exceptional seafood soup, a rich fish and lobster stock intense with Provencal herbs with slices of sea bass.

Favorites include bavarois of tomatoes with goat cheese and duck breast confit with Provencal herbs.