History and Culture

Last week we had the priviledge to visit a winery with our friends, Nico (that's right, there's two of them). Viticoltori De Conciliis is the name of the producer, located just south of Salerno in Paestum. Their Donnaluna is found in practically every wine shop in the region and is available in NY and Cali. First, we received a tour from the owner of the winemaking facilities then had a quick tasting of light bubbly wines (because it was so darn hot outside). It seemed like a normal day at a winery, but Nico had more in store for us. He then took us to a buffalo farm where we had buffalo milk gelato - so good! We played with some kittens then headed off to our next destination - where, we weren't sure. We pulled up into this long dirt driveway stopping in front of a home... Nico's grandparents' home! When we exited the car, his grandparents led us to a worn-down shelter near their garage. They explained to us that it used to be a caffeteria for the American soldiers during World War II. Still showing on a couple of the walls are paintings of airplanes used during the war. The couple then told us we are most likely the first Americans to be back in the building since the war.
Following the short tour, we sat down at the kitchen table for some home made snacks and limoncello - excellent! It was simple munchies that you would find around Italy - but they were scrumptous and had just a bit more wonderfulness to them!
We wandered outside to discover their land was a small farm, growing everything from cucumber to apricots. Not to mention Grandma had every flower ever created by God in her garden.
My favorite moments in Italy have been full immersion in culture and hospitality of the Italian people. It's not the food, it's not the atmosphere, but the people that make Italy truly amazing. We were welcomed like family and Grandma and Grandpa showed off their home and land with pride. I know even the southern region is very different than the northern, but if it means giving up days like that, I'm never want to leave south Italy.