Wrenching myself from the beauties of Piedmonte is not an easy thing to do. I have fallen in love with the region’s food, wine and natural beauty, but I console myself with the excitement of future adventures and a quiet promise to myself that one day I will return. Even though I am at the foot of the Alps, I did not realize how high in altitude Piedmonte lies, until I start driving south to the Mediterranean coast. A two and a half hour roller coaster ride down mountain passes, mile-long tunnels and 720 degree bends. The well-maintained roads cut through the mountains are a testament to Italian engineering. I am quite happy to pay the tolls and as a bonus pick up a few driving tips from my fellow, road-seasoned competitors.

Apparently, while driving in Italy one should leave your turn signal on the whole time, flash your lights at slower vehicles, pump your fists (and other hand signals) regularly and straddle both lanes at the same time. The hierarchy of the road depends on the size and make of the vehicle you drive. Unfortunately, my little Lancia from Avis only gives me status over the drivers of Fiat Pandas, caravans and tractors. Thankfully, the trip was downhill all the way because my two-stroke lawn mower engine would never have made it traveling the other way.

When I hit the coast (with a sigh of white knuckled relief), the beauty of the Mediterranean reveals itself in all its glory. Bright sunlight reflects off of the sea and the large port city of Genoa gleams with its red-roofed houses. After another hour’s drive along the impossibly steep hills of the coast, I pull off of the autostrade and head to my destination.

Liguria, the region, is best known for its beaches, seafood and the colorful towns built into the coastlines along the Cinque Terre coast. Inland, it is famous for its pesto, focaccia, olive oil, wild mushrooms and artichokes. The wines of Liguria in general do not spark much interest with basic whites from Vermentino, Bosco and Pigato, and woodsy reds from Dolcetto (known locally as Ormeasco), Sangiovese, and Ciliegiolo. However, at a tasting held in Columbia, SC about two years ago, I had the chance to taste some of Pierluigi Lugano’s wines and they really moved me. I am determined not to miss an opportunity to meet him and taste his wines at their source of origin –the Enoteca Bisson – both a winery and wine shop.

As the day ends, I am filled with both excitement about exploring my new destination and anticipation surrounding the wine tastings tomorrow.

Cheers,
Patrick