FROM ITALY, WITH LOVE AN ITALIAN SUMMER ADVENTURE IN TUSCANY

by BILL DANTE

Most of us love Italian food and Italian wines. Some of our first dates started with “How about some Italian food?” We love Italian sports cars and the famous, “Made In Italy” on our clothes. When we talk about Italy we sometimes think about history starting with the Romans, and then the Renaissance, 1500s and Michelangelo. Even Romeo and Juliet took place in the city of Verona according to Shakespeare. Let’s not forget our favorite Italian singers, actors, actresses and their Italian movies. Whether you have been there or not, we all like to dream about going for the first time or going back again.

It’s no surprise that most of us are very passionate about everything Italian. I have been to Italy many times, starting with the US Air Force, when I was just eighteen. Yes, that was rough duty! But the culture, food and history has stayed with me for a lifetime. I have been back many times and have even escorted groups with people you probably know from Texas. I never tire of charming villages, stunning landscapes, Medieval architecture and of course women on mopeds. Did I say that?

Life in Italy revolves around incredibly delicious food. They say, “The worst Italian food you will find in Italy is still much better than any Italian food back home.” Well unless your grandmother is Italian.

Italians have set the bar for creating delectable dishes and making the finest wines. What is the secret? It’s using quality ingredients in PEAK season. Every region in Italy is know for their food specialties but my favorite is Tuscany. I’ve spent many trips traveling from Florence to Siena, by car, and visited all the charming towns in- between. I learned from friends that traditional Italian recipes follow the seasons and you should quickly adapt to this thinking. In other words, order food that is in season. Also learning about the glorious and smooth tasting Tuscan wines is a major bonus.By the way, wines don’t have to be expensive to be excellent.