However one approaches Tuscany (Toscana), one comes to understand the definition of beauty and perfection much better. It is the cradle of the Renaissance and the home to Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Vespucci, Puccini, and countless other geniuses, artists, and inventors. To say Toscana is inspirational is not giving this magnificent part of the world its due credit.
Then there is the food and wine, art, architecture, and a landscape of lined cypress trees cresting rolling hilltops framing well-groomed vineyards. Everything seems to easily translate into a poetic image capable of encapsulating the experience into brush strokes or music.
There is an expression in Italy, “A tavola non si invecchia” which is, “At the table one does not age.” It goes right to the heart of the notion that the Italian meal is meant to be an experience of good feelings enjoyed with others. It is to be a source of pleasure and relaxation.
Tuscan food corresponds to my notion of eating well. We had crostini, fettunta, finocchiona and prosciutto. I had wild boar and a curled pasta called pici. On the coast one day, I had a fish plate called cacciucco, which is sort of a fish-and-seafood stew. I made risotto one evening at the villa and although I’ve made it countless times it seemed to come alive with local ingredients. And, I got creative with bruschetta for Krys.
In Siena one night, we made an early reservation for L’Osteria on Via dei Rossi. It was well worth the walk. The crostini was excellent, pasta e fagioli and the pici amazing. And the wild boar was memorable.
We only drank locally produced, Tuscan wines…. Brunello di Montalcino, Chianti, Chianti Classico, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. We shared one of the few white wines produced in the area, Vernaccia di San Gimignano. The wine brought us all together as we shared the love of the land and one of its most sublime products.
Dining in Italy is not just about nourishment. It is all about the interaction with restaurateurs and one's dining companions.
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