In Rome, I arrived expecting carbonara but discovered tripe, quinto quarto, and the rich traditions behind cucina povera. A story of Roman food, forgotten cuts, and the Verdicchio wine that brought it all together.

A recent trip to Rome inspired a fun thought experiment: if Italy's greatest artists were wines, what would they be? From Giotto to Modigliani, I've paired iconic artists with iconic Italian wines, exploring the personalities, places, and stories they share. It's entirely subjective, a little geeky, and written for anyone who loves art, wine, or both. Saluti! 🍷🎨

A glass of Sicilian Nero d'Avola, a rich and full-bodied red wine sourced from the picturesque Baroque town of Noto. This exquisite wine pairs beautifully with a savoury dish of Eggplant Parmigiana, featuring layers of tender, sautéed eggplant, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all baked to perfection in a comforting tomato sauce.

Sicily is Italy’s largest wine region and boasts a diverse array of exquisite wines that reflect its rich terroir and cultural heritage. While there are numerous options to explore, I will highlight just a few exceptional selections that you can readily find in local stores here in Alberta, Canada.

Pantelleria is a tiny volcanic speck between Sicily and Africa, a place where wind, sun, and sea shape everything, including its vibrant Zibibbo wines. Floral, citrusy, and touched with salt, they taste like the island’s own heartbeat. Paired with delicate sole and the island’s legendary capers, the flavours form a bright, aromatic trio that turns a simple dish into a sun-soaked Mediterranean escape.

From the Dolomites’ crisp mountain air to the smoky depth of Speck and the dark-berry richness of Lagrein, Alto Adige is a region where every flavour tells a story. This post brings together its food, wine, and Alpine spirit - along with a simple, delicious pork tenderloin recipe inspired by the landscape itself.