Even 15th-century ever-so-crumbling charm can grow mighty thin. So we found a terrific realtor in town, well recommended. He took us to 4 properties, to suss out what we really wanted. Requirements for us include a house we can move right into with a minimum of work, French character, at least two bedrooms (this has three), with two full bathrooms so guests can have privacy, a modern kitchen, plenty of light, with recent electricity and plumbing. Lo and behold: a two-minute walk away is the typical 1890's vigneron's house you see below, nicely restored. And since the European economy remains in a slump, the market favors buyers. The deal hinges on whether we can crack open the roof to install an open air terrace for the Sun Queen.