The Prince of Wales passionately expounded on the merits of British beef during a visit to Paris yesterday, opining that nothing goes better with a fine French red than a delicious slice of prime cut from the UK.
"Eat British beef, drink French wine and preserve a precious, priceless heritage for our future and for our descendants," he told a roomful of the country's chefs. He then snacked on three samples of meaty cuisine, following it with a glass of £18-a-bottle Chateau Magelaine to prove his point.
Of course, as Charles put it, "This wonderful piece of beef is not just a delicious lump of meat that we enjoy eating. No, it is far more than that." Evoking images of tranquil rural life, he continued: "It represents an entire culture, the culture of the family firm. It represents the ancient tapestry of rural life; the dedicated animal husbandry, the struggle with the natural elements, the love of landscape, the childhood memories, the knowledge and wisdom learnt from parents and grandparents, the intimate understanding of local climate and conditions, the hopes and fears of succeeding generations."
The colourful speech, which was delivered to some of France's most discerning palates, won over at least one culinary expert, chef Pierre Gagnaire, who owns a three-star Paris restaurant and a London eaterie. Admitting he served only French beef in his UK establishment, he declared: "Now I will use British beef."
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Speaking to French chefs in Paris, Charles sampled UK beef and washed it down with a glass of Chateau Magelaine
Photo: © AFP
Photo: © Alphapress.com
During his stay in the City of Light, the Prince also met with France's President Jacques Chirac
Photo: © AFP
