Gastronomy dictates that we should give daily to our senses of taste and smell a chance to be up and doing, a chance to respond to some new or old but pleasant combination of flavors and savors, and relay to the brain some pleasurable sensations which may rub off the slate of the mind, even if it be merely for a while, the petty cares and disappointments of the hour.  Andre Simon 

{HISTORY}

Prolific writer, merchant, and wine connoisseur Andre Simon (1877-1970) was one of the 20th century's most knowledgeable wine experts. The author of over 100 books on the subject throughout his long 93-year life, he wrote this cookbook, Andre Simon's French Cook Book in 1938. A compilation of suggested seasonal French menus, each paired with the appropriate wine, it became a well-loved cookbook for everyone interested in the art of good living, the art of gastronomie.

Written in an endearing conversational tone, each recipe is laid out in paragraph form but detailed step by step just as if Andre was standing next to you in the kitchen cooking right along with you. Laid out season by season, there are party menus for lunch and dinner as well as menus for each meal for a more petite crowd. Although each menu contains multiple courses, simplicity is at the heart of each meal and hospitality is the theme at the table no matter if you are cooking for two or twenty. 

In addition to recipes, there is quite an extensive chapter on sauces and another one on wine. What is particularly interesting regarding Andre's notes on the latter subject is that he does limit readers to French wines but discusses varietals from vineyards all over the world including America. 

{SPECIAL FEATURES}

- This is the 1948 Revised Edition 

- 342 pages

- Five beautifully illustrated color plates of French chefs and waiters by Nancy Dyer are peppered throughout

- Interesting recipes include Lemon Ice with Rum, Fresh Apricot Mousse, Stuffed Lobster, Ribbon Spaghetti with Mushrooms, Stuffed Artichokes, Almond Pancakes, Scalloped corn in Shells, Black Cherry Custard and so many more!

{CONDITION}

In lovely aged condition. This is an ex-library book so there are stamps, markings, and a circulation pocket at back that reflect that. The interior and exterior of this cookbook are very clean and bright with no cooking spots or stains.  Some of the color plates and the endpapers contain light foxing and while the cookbook is secure and all pages are intact,, the binding has begun to pull apart from the spine. Please see photos. 

{SIZE}

Measures 8.25" inches (length) x 5.5" inches (width) x 1.25" inches (thickness) and weighs 1.3lbs 

{FOR THE WINE LOVER}

Find more vintage wine inspiration here.