Tuscany

Tuscany

When we think of excellent food and wine, we think of Tuscany. Also, when we think of rolling hills, hilltop medieval villages, endless olive groves and beautiful scenery, Tuscany may come to mind.

One notices right away that obesity has not reared its ugly head here. People seem to eat a lot and often, but they do not end up wearing it. What is the difference? The crowded restaurants at 9 and 10 pm would suggest that middle age would show itself around people's waists. What are they doing that protects them? I know not.

Eggplant, artichokes and large ripe tomatoes delight me. Here, they feature in abundance in the cuisine. The choice of wines is sheer delight. I have had a predilection for several years for Sangiovese grapes and this is the place to indulge.  If you want to spend more money on your wine and sip vintages, look at Brunellos. You don't have to spend a fortune though to thrill the palate. 

Wandering the hills and villages brings its own special joy. There is a sense of history here, of a people prepared to defend themselves in clans and live high above the contagion of the swamps below. To be in a village which has been continuously inhabited for a thousand years and still thrives today in a new iteration brings a rare sense of continuity and triumph over adversity. So far from the tearing down of recently built malls and the notion of housing having a lifespan of 50 years or so. We could learn a lot in these villages that would serve us well as we prepare to survive the next millennium, Trump notwithstanding. 

Even in late May, the heat has to be handled with kid gloves, so to speak. And you will see gossamer like leather gloves, Italian made, all over the tourist areas! Rest in the middle of the day. The long evening lies ahead, another passeggiata and a delicious repast beckon! There is all the time in the world! Today is the best day to enjoy oneself.