Chateau de Purnon's Culinary Revival at Smith St Bistrot

Step back in time to the elegance of the Belle Époque as Scott Pickett reawakens the flavours of Château de Purnon, a 1772 Historical Monument just south of the Loire Valley. Join us for an unforgettable evening of culinary time travel, where you'll indulge in canapés meticulously crafted to replicate a menu from 1911, uncovered during the grand restoration of Château de Purnon. Discover the secrets of this remarkable revival, led by Melbourne's own Tim Holding and Felicity Selkirk.

All of this unfolds within the opulent private dining room of Smith St Bistrot, ‘La Vie en Rose’, a space that exudes the charm of a bygone era. Enjoy a replication of the traditional French hors d’oeuvres presented at the château, like pâté en croute and macarons Feuilletés while sipping French wine, all included in the ticket price of $155pp.

The Château de Purnon was constructed between 1772 and 1791 in classic French style flanked by two enormous outbuildings made in tuffeau stone. In 1893, the château was purchased by the Marquis de Rochequairie.  Tim and Felicity purchased the 105 room Château de Purnon in 2020 when the property was in grave peril and required urgent works to restore the roof and facades. They are currently working tirelessly to save Purnon from ruin. We are pleased to join with Melbourne Food and Wine Festival to recognise their enormous efforts to restore this remarkable estate. We invite you to meet Timothy and Felicity over a historic canapé menu and French wine then follow the courageous couple on their journey.

7–9pm, Tuesday, 19th March

$155pp

Please note this event is only accessible by stairs.