Yes, red roses are romantic...and also so terribly cliché. So this Valentine's Day, why not gift your guy or gal or pal a bouquet of roses in wine form. And, since we all know that Italian is the language of love, then Italian wine must be the wine of love, right? [Resounding] Right! Below are several Italian grape varieties known for producing wines with rosy bouquets that will win over the palette of your beloved...not to mention pump those healthy antioxidants into their hearts...
Read moreWhere to Eat and Drink in Turin
Photo by Oddur Thorisson for Conde Naste Traveler February 2017
Every once in a while a travel magazine manages to masterfully capture an authentic slice of Italy – not the cliché, nor the sugar-coated sales pitch – but an honest portrait (albeit one of a lover). This time, the often overlooked Turin takes center stage in Oddur Thorisson's article for Conde Naste Traveler. Having traveled extensively in Italy and been fortunate enough to have had an insider's view every step of the way (thanks to friends, family of friends and friendly strangers), I was impressed with Thorisson's observant overview of this grand old gem...of course, I have my edits: ...
Read moreMix Tape | A Little Escapism with Paolo Conte
Last week was rough. While we all figure out our next steps, I thought a moment of escapism was called for. Via Con Me was written in 1981 by Paolo Conte, the beloved singing, composing, piano-playing lawyer (we need more of those!) from Asti, Piemonte in the northwest of Italy. His deep, raspy voice is the perfect vehicle for...
Read moreField Notes | Haunting Polaroids of Venice
Before heading to Italy this past September, the romantic in me bought a vintage polaroid camera to capture the beauty of Italy not only instantly, but physically – a retaliation against my iphone and photo apps. Unfortunately, I bought the wrong film.
Read moreLeslie's Black Book | Best Wine Bars in Venice
September is one of the best months to visit Venice: warm, sunny days and evenings that feel like a soft embrace. Even the occasional thunderstorm isn't so bad: it gives you the excuse to linger under a romantic sotoportego, soak up a little more culture in one of Venice's incredible museums....or count how many bottles of wine on the wall there are at that cute little wine bar down the calle? Yes, please. When in Venice, do as the Venetians do: drink!
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