I do love Chianti-the wine but more than that, I love Chianti the place and the Chiantigiani- the people. Chianti is a huge region, where Chianti wine is produced. The original Chianti blend was established in the 1800s by Baron Ricasoli, at his estate in Gaiole in Chianti. Chianti Classico is a tiny part of…
Taking a Break
Sometimes things just pile up in life and you need to take a break– so I did! How can you miss me if I don’t go away? This year is flying by and I am catching up with my trip planning. I started to offer more weeklong programs this year and the planning is harder…
Coffee Culture
In Italy, coffee is almost a religious experience. Each person has their favorite coffee, grind and how to make it at home and where to get it when they go out. At home, most people make simple coffee using a MOKA or stovetop style coffee pot. You get your espresso out at a bar, where…
Learning Italian- Lesson # 1
Eat, Play, Love– new programs for 2014
Eat, Play , Love……………. Eat, Play, Laugh My new Mantra for 2014. Also Collaboration. I turn 60 in April and have a 2 year plan. Starting to change my programs to match what I really love. The People. I am offering more week-long programs in Tuscany and Sicily. I began doing custom culinary programs back…
Buona Befana and 2014
The holidays in Italy are always a little overwhelming as they involve huge amounts of food and drink. This year I decided to slide though the holidays, avoiding over-doing it. The weather has been mild, and the hills near my house are filled with these tiny blossoms which are so sweet. Not sure when winter…
My Wish for YOU
This year Divina Cucina is becoming Simply Divina, inc and will be sharing my Chianti:Food&Wine secrets on tour this year as well! I am just writing up my Kitchens in Chianti program where we will eat and drink out way through Chianti, cooking in the kitchens of my friends!!! Can’t wait!
Thanks- Giving
Here in Italy, it is just another Thursday. But, everyday should be thanksgiving. Look around. Appreciate. Invite someone to your table. Mille Grazie A thousand thanks