The film is loosely based on "Mes carnets de cuisine. Du Périgord à l'Elysée", the memories of Danièle Delpeuch, the first and only female chef having worked for the French President at the Palais de l'Elysée
The red wine which Hortense serves with the black truffle toast for the President in her kitchen, is 1969 Chateau Rayas Chateauneuf-du-Pape Reserve, for which the most recent (June 2016) global average price per 1 bottle is 1107 Euros, without taxes. (approx. 1248 US Dollars).
First movie role of famous French writer Jean d'Ormesson at age 86.
Epilogue before end credits: "When Danièle Mazet-Delpeuch returned home to France, she was inspired to write a book called 'Carnets de Cuisine,' combining her best recipes and her happiest memories. Today, she still cooks passionately for her family, friends, and all those who want to learn the secrets of traditional French Cuisine ... and she still reads all of her recipes aloud."
Claude Rich was considered for the role of the President.