In the suitcase of Evelyne Saussard, sales assistant

This sales assistant has been working at the Athenaeum for over 20 years now. Now a specialist in glassware and sommeliers, Evelyne Saussard unveils her suitcase as part of our special Summer newsletter series.

Which novel will you be taking with you this summer?

Violette Toussaint is a cemetery warden in a small town in Burgundy. Passers-by and regulars come to confide in her and warm up in her lodge. Together with the small team of gravediggers and the young priest, they make up an odd ‘family’. But what events have led Violette into this world of tragedy and comedy? Following on from the success of Les Oubliés du dimanche, this is a new hymn to the wonder of simple things.

« I like Valérie Perrin’s novels. They are always very enjoyable and easy to read. They’re real holiday books. »

Will any guidebooks, recipe books or other ‘practical’ books be included?

The must-sees of Barcelona and Catalonia, the region’s favourites, good addresses to suit all budgets, the best family spots, suggested itineraries… As usual, this guide is packed with good tips.

« I never leave home without a guide. It helps me prepare for every trip. The next one will be Barcelona, with my family.« 

What bottles of wine would you recommend your family and friends to drink this summer?

Between the Montagne de Corton and Beaune: it’s here, at an altitude of 250 to 400 metres, that the vines from which this Savigny-lès-beaune comes rise. A powerful yet round wine. Ideal with tasty beef or pan-fried foie gras. Also perfect with roast poultry with crispy skin.

« I’ve always had a penchant for red Savigny wines. They are both light and full-bodied.« 

Which bottles would you like to (re)discover?

Made from hand-picked 35-year-old vines grown on clay-limestone soil, this white Côtes du Jura wine is vinified and matured for ten months. It has a golden colour and reveals aromas of dried fruit and citrus fruit, confirmed on the palate by notes of hazelnut and apricot. Perfect with veal or fish.

« My family comes from the Jura. I always enjoy rediscovering the wines of this region.« 

What accessories do you always take with you?

A soft microfibre fabric, a clever floor attachment system, a zipped pocket to protect your personal belongings and generous dimensions… This beach towel has it all!

« Lightweight and practical… It’s my must-have when I go to the seaside!«