Checkmate

Henri Frapin enjoys relaxing on these spring Sundays in the garden opposite the hotel, built in 1702 and located above the production site. He contemplates this region, consisting of forests, rivers, and pastures, where he was born and which is in his blood. His favorite time is when his son joins him around 11 am, when the sun's rays warm this wooded cape above Segonzac. The chessboard is ready. His son sits and silently resumes this metaphorical battle, a union with his father in the pleasures of the game. A spring breeze brings with it refreshing scents of the surrounding groves. The sun warms the citrus fruits, which ripen in a terracotta pot on the table, while the iris and heliotropes, which line the path leading to the platform, shed their dew covers and unfold to fill the air with their fragrances. Henri treats his son to traditional cardamom tea, a spice that takes its origin from this ancient game. Both players aim to checkmate each other, at the same time, delaying this moment to prolong these special moments, this bridge between two generations, this bond of paternal love that will forever bind them together.