A Look at Some Italian Highlights

So after a very adventurous summer, I have safely returned to the United States!
From France to Italy (and even fitting in a trip to the Czech Republic and Germany), I can admit it was truly an unforgettable summer.
I feel enriched with more knowledge and experience in Italian wines and Biodynamic practices, and I am grateful for that. However what I really feel were invaluable were the friendships and the many learning experiences made at Valgiano.  I have also returned with a greater understanding of Tuscan gastronomy and its integral role in Italian culture. Their great food and wine seemed to create happiness that brought them together.  Legend winemaker Robert Mondavi even reminds us, "If you go back to the Greeks and Romans, they talk about all three - wine, food, and art - as a way of enhancing life."

Below, a look at some highlights from my time spent living/working in Tuscany at Tenuta di Valgiano.

{Happy faces of the people of Valgiano after a delicious lunch + wine :)}

{View from the winery's villa during sunset. Gorgeous.}

{Pointing out a road sign of the small Tuscan town of Valgiano}

{Enjoying a locally-made dinner in the middle of the estate's wheat field}

{In the foreground- freshly harvested wheat field. Right- the winery estate. Background- breathtaking view of the city of Lucca}

{Some of the best pasta I've had..like, ever. Served with fresh buffalo mozzarella = heaven}

{Full moon over the Tuscan hills}

{The estate also has 4 little pigs, specifically known as "La Cinta"}

All great things must come to an end but here's to new adventures! I can nearly believe it but I begin my first day of work at Jordan Winery in Sonoma this Monday.
I have many more photos from my summer in Europe and will be sharing soon!

Cheers,
B

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Tuscan Dreaming

Ciao from Tuscany! Apologies for hardly any blog updates - I feel like there's so much to share and update I almost feel overwhelmed! It's great over here so far. Yesterday marked week three at the winery here in Lucca. It's been quite the experience here...let's just say my usual phrase is "please, somebody pinch me- I must be dreaming!"

I feel so lucky to be here and never did I imagine my adventures post-graduation to be this great.
Thank you again for all of your kind words and support!

More updates to come, but until then, some iPhone photos of the winery and the Tuscan countryside:

{A look inside the cellar- French oak barrels}

{A Tuscan cutie}

Cheers,

B

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