Second Day Of "Wine Town Firenze" 2010

Today was another gorgeous sunny day.

We headed towards the Mercato Centrale, where it seemed there was an exhibit called "Innovation:Wine Camp."

As we walked there, we came across a hotel called Montreal and Mary's Place, and had to take some photos for home.

The Mercato is always fun to visit, and today was no different. But unfortunately, the "Wine Camp" was on a break for lunch, and we learned, it was more of a discussion in Italian on wines.

At least that saved us from walking across town to another discussion venue, and instead, we started to meander back into town.

For those who like to shop, there are no streets in Florence that does not have interesting boutiques that catches the eye. Hera found a lovely black knit jacket with mink accents and picked it up.

Food shops are also to be found everywhere. At Via Sant'Antonino 23/r we found Il Cantuccio, where for 2 Euros, we bought a bag of best biscotti that Hera and I ever tasted. Fresh, and supple, with hints of oranges, nuts and chocolates. If you are in the area, it is defintely worth finding and tasting.

Earlier in our trip we had come across an empty but charming Piazza Annunziata. Today the square was bustling with people, filled with stalls selling various items and foods. Picking up some food, we walked amongst the stalls.

WineTown had an exhibit for children called "Vinopoli: Wine Explained to Children." We saw some crates of various grapes, groups of children, and what looked like a large life-sized monopoly board. How the game was played, I am not sure, but I do not see a "wine game" for children back home. I guess we are too uptight when it comes to wine.

At one stall, we recognized some wines that we had seen back home. Francesco Sorelli cheerfully explained the various wines that Ruffino produces (http://www.ruffino.com/) All the wines were exceptional, and his guidance was educational, and helped us appreciate the wines all the more.

Later in the day, we came across another stall, this one showcasing the Monteregio di Massa Marittima region. Wines of smaller producers, that are not exported. Once again, we were pleasantly guided by Barbara Simi as she shared her enthusiasm for wine, and enjoying life in general.

As we conversed and tasted the wines, a couple from Texas joined us. They asked us our opinion on the wines, and the conversation expanded. Part of the joy of wine tasting is this sharing. We all taste and experience things differently, but by voicing our opinions and listening to others, it add depth and richness to the experience.

Cheers,

Anthony & Hera