So Frenchy, So Chic

words by niall roeder

Where France meets Oz. The ultimate French picnic. A summer French escape of music, food and friends… The festival with more taglines than a French tee has blue stripes will soon be bringing the baguettes to Werribee Park.

The So Frenchy So Chic famille are throwing a garden picnic in the heart of the festive season so we can all spend a day celebrating the joie de vivre. The event is based around musique, artisanal grub and delicious wine, all of the French variety, so I daresay the “joy of life” will be absolutely rife.

Which is sexier; the French language or English spoken with a French accent? It’s a lust-filled question that has for years plagued romantics and horn bags alike. The SFSC line-up includes four French favourites that sing in both tongues, so whilst there you can get lost in the language and make your mind up for yourself. There’ll be the Thievery Corporation-esque Nouvelle Vague, a crooning Bertrand Berlin, the blasé art rock of The Limiñanas and the electro-grooves of Deluxe. Even though each group is quite different musically, rest assured all have an undeniable French flavour and aforementioned “sexiness”.

This event is all about what they call, “the simple pleasures”, one of which is food. So it’s not surprising the SFSC crew will be spruiking epic baskets to keep the picnic vibe strong and the pundits full. The cheese, charcuterie and baguette hampers boast treats like braised leek and Gruyere quiche, Blue Auvergne la Veronne, Picholine olives marinated in orange, thyme and garlic, as well as an assortment of crusty baguettes. There’s also a banquet option for those wanting to bombard their tastebuds with a menu designed by Hotel Gitan that includes fresh oysters matched with Laurent Perrier champagne.

Oh yes, there will be champagne and French wine for all. All except minors, that is, who are most definitely still welcome. In fact, kids under 12 are admitted free and can get stuck into activities like, croquet, face painting and drumming classes.

A French musique and cuisine experience served on a summer’s day on the grounds of a Melbourne mansion? Just say oui.

Keep an eye on the official Facebook page for tickets.

So Frenchy So Chic is at Werribee Park January 15.