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La Dolce Vigna

  • Philosophy
  • Italy
  • + Beyond
  • Trip Consulting
  • Blog
  • Contact

11 Dreamy Italian Thermal Baths for Pure Relaxation

November 26, 2025 Leslie Rosa

Roman Bath in the heart of Bagno Vignoni. Photo credit: Leslie Rosa

Travelers come to Italy for art, food, and sunshine — but many overlook one of the country’s greatest pleasures: slipping into a hot spring and doing absolutely nothing. Italy is practically dotted with thermal waters thanks to ancient volcanic activity beneath the surface, warm, mineral-rich springs can be found from the Alps to Sicily. Some are rustic and wild, while others are full-fledged luxury retreats with plush robes and Michelin-ready dining.

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Italy’s Most Bizarre and Fascinating Festivals

October 30, 2025 Leslie Rosa

From the Alps to the South, old pagan traditions blend with religious rituals or historical anniversaries, creating experiences that are both mesmerizing and sometimes downright bizarre. Let’s explore some of Italy’s most remarkable celebrations! 

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More than Malbec: 7 Other Grape Varieties thriving in Mendoza, Argentina

August 7, 2025 Leslie Rosa

Mendoza and Malbec go hand-in-hand, sure—but there’s so much more to discover in this high-altitude region of western Argentina. If you’re ready to go beyond Malbec, here are 7 delicious grape varieties to explore in Mendoza—each one shaped by the region’s dry climate, intense sunlight, and dramatic elevation.

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Sipping through the Songbook: Paul Simon Albums Paired with Italian Wine - Volume 2

August 5, 2025 Leslie Rosa

This is the second of two parts of an imaginative and, of course, very subjective, guide that pairs Paul Simon’s solo studio albums from 1990 - 2023 with an Italian grape variety or wine that complements each one’s vibe.

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Sipping through the Songbook: Paul Simon Albums Paired with Italian Wine - Volume 1

July 1, 2025 Leslie Rosa

Photo Credit: Paul Simon Official. Photo by Kevin Mazur.

The first of two parts of an imaginative and, of course, very subjective, guide that pairs Paul Simon’s solo studio albums from 1965 - 1986 with a grape variety or wine that complements each one’s vibe.

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Ernest Hemingway and Italian Wine

April 30, 2025 Leslie Rosa
Hemingway drinking

Wine in Ernest Hemingway’s novels isn’t just a prop—it is tied to the culture, geography, and mood of the scenes and serves as a metaphor for companionship, solace, and the joy of simple pleasures.

I thought it would be fun to share passages from his novels in which he mentions Italian wines. Below you will find references to specific wines as well as Italian wine in general.

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Which Italian Wine Are You (Based on Your Zodiac Sign)?

March 25, 2025 Leslie Rosa

Italy is home to some of the world’s most renowned wines, each with its own personality, depth, and flair—just like the twelve astrological signs. Whether you’re a bold and fiery Aries or a mysterious and intense Scorpio, there’s an Italian wine that perfectly matches your cosmic energy. Read on to find out which Italian wine best represents your zodiac sign.

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Off-the-beaten-path Liguria

February 27, 2025 Leslie Rosa

Liguria — the stretch of Italy that runs from the French border in the west to the edge of Tuscany in the east — is known first and foremost for the five perched seaside villages of Cinque Terre, as well as film-set favorite, Portofino. Venture inland from the coast, however, and you’ll find villages overflowing with charm, tradition and even a few quirky stories to tell. Here are five of the best.

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12 Lesser-Known Italian Wines to Try in 2025

January 30, 2025 Leslie Rosa

As much as I am happy to enjoy a good Barolo or Chianti, Italy offers so much more. I’m really happy with the list below and hope you have fun wine hunting!

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Emilia-Romagna: Foodie Heaven

December 28, 2024 Leslie Rosa

There’s no question that good food is one of the key attractions of any visitor to the Bel Paese. But only one region is referred to as the stomach of Italy: Emilia Romagna. Let’s dig into some of the region’s tastiest delights.

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