As the growing season is running a little ahead of schedule over here, by two weeks, we were able to help
the winery start their preparations for the pressing of the grapes. In order to fully appreciate the process, we went on an extensive tour, learning about the history, process and production. After the tour we helped to ready the tanks that will hold the prized vintages to come. This winery is an award winning winery, one of the top cellars in Italy to be exact. After our hard labor, we were able to sample some of the wines and a little of the Sambuca on site as well. To be part of this process was actually quite special and one we will not forget. We were able to also tour the entire farm, looking at the animals, the vegetable beds the fields... all very impressive. It certainly makes us think of our own childhood as we always enjoyed a garden in the back yard. It was part of who we are to grow our own food, to work with la terra, the earth in this manner. When we are in the dirt, we are close to nature, working with the soil and we understand this connection we have to our food. It is through this process where true nourishment comes for the body and soul. Seeing this countryside so full of life brings our spirit closer to the land.
For lunch we ventured into town and enjoyed a lovely meal at the restaurant Medina. We have been here before and it so nice to return. As we finished our lunch we were met with a lovely tour guide, who took us around the city of Orsara. For those of us who have not been before, this was a real treat to see the town in this manner. For our family members it was especially wonderful, because the stories were heard growing up about our grandparents walking these streets came alive. If you have never been to the land where your ancestors are from it is highly recommended to put these pieces of your past together.
To end the tour, we went to the Grotto of Saint Michael the Archangel. This is the patron Saint of Orsara which is the reason why so many of the men are names Michael from this town, including our own brother. Tours, Wines, and Angels... how did you spend your day?
2 comments:
Hi - My family is from Orsara di Puglia, also. We have been there 3 times and hope to get back over there next year. Your blog was very interesting. We met the owners of Ristorante Medina and was surprise to find out that the wife was from the Boston area and the husband was a chef in Boston's North End (Italian section). Cio!! Toni Picariello
very cool stuff!
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