Embark on a Culinary Expedition at the Rockwell Tent

Manila / May 2009 ? In the 1995 flick French Kiss, Meg Ryan stars opposite Kevin Kline in a cross-continent romantic comedy that takes her character, Kate, on a journey beyond neurosis and a fear of flying. While over half the time Kate tries to overcome indigestion and her displeasure over Kline?s outlandish character (Luc), her naiveté gave majority of its female audience a familiar warm feeling as well as a picturesque view of the French countryside.

?Did you know there are 452 official kinds of cheese in this country, isn't that amazing?? said Kate over breakfast on the interstate train. Interestingly ? while we try to forget the succeeding spasmic episode that should have won Ryan an Academy Award - that?s also 452 ways to enjoy bread, crackers or just cheese on its own!

And while enjoying the popular varieties of Brie, Camembert, Boursin, Mozzarella and other delectable cheeses will already take you on an expedition across France, Switzerland and Italy, the upcoming European Food and Wine Festival at the Rockwell Tent is a great way to get you started on your travel blog.

True romance
Filipinos are true romantics. Though culturally, our obvious American influence gave birth to generations that thrive on milk shakes and French Fries ? which I also love ? Filipinos have continuously romanticized about Europe and its old world charm. Moreover, local foodies have also taken a special interest not only in European travel but in its vast cuisine as well.

The exposition will feature a variety of England?s famous pies and pastries, among others. The U.K. is known for its home-cooked Pork pies, Cornish pasties (from Cornwall, Southwest England) and Steak & Kidney pies ? traditionally consisting of chopped beef, onions, mushrooms and beef stock all in a casserole dish.

Germany will also bring platters of its succulent bratwurst and schnitzels, Schweinshaxe pork knuckles ? the baked German version of our local crispy pata ?and a wide selection of its famous brewed beers that will bring your senses to the flamboyant festivities of the Bavarian Oktoberfest. Germany also has a variety of fine wines that are indigenous to the country?s wine region, including the renowned 2004 Leiwener Riesling ? a must for every aficionado.

From Bavarian to Madrileño
Spanish influence also plays a major factor in the Filipino?s affinity for culture and fine things that distinguish an epicurean lifestyle. But more than an illustrious long-table setting, Spanish dining is every bit ?familial;? a luxuriant ritual that begins with table wine, tapas that awaken the palate, paellas combined with meat and seafood, and the sinfully-sweet Canonigo to bring the perfect end to a meal.

True to every cinematic ending, every culinary expedition also mirrors a greater life?s pursuit. In the movie, Luc Teyssier was in continuous pursuit: of a jewel, a woman, and of absolution; taking him from the U.S. to Paris and to Cannes. The pursuit of food and fine wines takes a similar form in which one explores a greater experience that elevates all the senses.

Event details
The European Food and Wine Festival 2009 will feature the best of Europe at the Rockwell Tent on May 16 and 17, 2009. Some 28 exhibitors from Germany, France, Spain, the United Kingdom, Switzerland and more are set to provide a European ?plaza? atmosphere for local foodies including a wine and cocktail seminar as well as children?s activities.

The exposition is organized by the European National Chambers: The British Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, The European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, the German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, La Camara and Le Club. It is held in cooperation with Rockwell Land

In the following days, the stage (or table?) is set for the Filipino?s love of great food, fine fines and accoutrements, and the pursuit of the perfect gastronomic experience.

And just like the movie, husbands will enjoy the expo too!