An Interview with François-Henri Désérable, author of the book "Le Palais," published by Gallimard

A novel set amid vineyards and wine country, sure to delight not only wine lovers but also fans of adventure and romance. From Beaune to New York, via New Delhi, Switzerland, Hungary, Georgia, Turkey, and all the way to the Marquesas Islands, the author takes us on the journey of a street urchin, Arun, whose palate—honed by tasting the dregs left in forgotten glasses—is the envy of the entire industry. His adoption, his first steps in the profession, and his tribulations around the world make for a feast of adventure. We lose ourselves in the grape varieties, we love his petty scams, his thwarted romances, and his sense of humor. Friendship, resentment, love, and honor: it’s all here in this book, best savored with a good glass of wine in hand. A standout release of the fall literary season and an author featured on several literary award shortlists for 2026!