The Sud de France Festival is a two-week celebration of the Mediterranean lifestyle, which kicks off on Friday 17 September 2010 with a one-day, Sud de France food and wine market in central London’s Cavendish Square (W1), in front of the Maison de la Région Languedoc-Roussillon.

Food and wine producers from the sunny south of France will be presenting their wares and bringing some Mediterranean vibes to London. Open to the general public, this free event is a unique chance to sample some of Languedoc-Roussillon’s most authentic food products and taste a selection of the region’s extensive range of wines, in a fun, French and informal atmosphere (full-size packs and bottles will be available to purchase, meaning visitors can try before they buy).

A Sud de France marquee will host a seafood bar serving oysters and mussels accompanied by sparkling Limoux wines, wine and olive oil tasting sessions, and a chill- out area in which to relax after savouring these culinary delights.

A tourist information stand will provide maps and details of the latest holiday hot spots in Languedoc-Roussillon, and visitors can pick up a free Sud de France “passport” info booklet.

Enjoy free wine tasting with producers including Gérard Bertrand, Skalli, Sainte Cécile du Parc, Domaine Grandes Causses, Sieur d’Arques, Tradition et Innovation, Château le Bouis, Château de Cabezac, Mont Tauch, Domaine du Traginer, Château de Péna and La Coume du Roi.

Fancy a tasty morsel to match? Sample the wares of Verfeuille (chestnut specialities), Domaine de l’Olivie (olive oil), Prosain (organic ready meals), Sud Primeurs (tapenade), Eugène Brunel (olive oil), CMJ (sweet & savoury biscuits), La Confiserie du Tech (biscuits and chocolate) and Bienmanger.com (online retailer of gourmet foods).

A second Sud de France market will be held on Saturday September 18 in Chelsea’s Duke of York Square, from 10 am – 4 pm.

For further information: www.festival-suddefrance.com