Crushing of the Grapes!

Only a couple more days and we will be home, leaving this beautiful countryside behind... it was with great pleasure we went out into the field to pick the first round of grape harvest.  The harvest is running early this year and the grapes were at the perfect sugar content being 22% for a nice reserva.  No time like the present and picking we went. 

After bringing in our harvest, we helped to prepare the tanks, flushing them out and washing of the grapes.  It was then time to crush and as much as the images of I Love Lucy may come to mind with their skirts between their legs, we did not get our feet into the mix!  

We spent most of our day with the grapes and getting the experience form the vine to the tank.  Truly makes you appreciate wine from a whole new perspective.  When we retired for the day, you could smell the beginning stages of the fermentation process.  It was quite lovely actually.

However, before retiring, we did sample some of the fabulous treats Peppe Zullo and his team prepared for an onsite wedding.  The place in which we stay is a full service cooking school, vineyard, reception hall, gardens etc.  He does it all with his esteemed staff by his side. 

When passion and pleasure come together it is heaven, truly.  This is what Peppe has created here for all who come to Orsara, at the base of the mountain. 

We journeyed up to the town for a seafood lunch, all the treats, Frutta di Mari, Octopus, Calamari, baby Red Snapper, and more.  It was wonderful to sample the freshness of the sea. 

As with every journey into town, it seems we happen upon another relative.  Again, for these moments to happen so effortlessly, it does make us remember what family means more and more... it is coming home and being loved.  Such warmth and happiness is found when we embrace. 

So one more day and we make our journey back home... for now, ciao ciao.