Orvieto
Leaving Florence behind and heading to our final destination, Rome, we drove in sight of small towns and greening fields against a backdrop of mountains – some still snow capped – before stopping for a wine-tasting and lunch at Tenuta Le Velette. It was a lovely spring day and we took our time enjoying the view of nearby Orvieto beyond greening grape vines and olive trees. Cecilia Bottai explained their operation, escorted us through the family kitchen and into their Etruscan cellars, before introducing us to a sampling of their Orvieto Classico wine. Many took advantage of the opportunity to purchase bottles of wine and cans of olive oil. Like the Florence cooking school experience, this was one of the highlights of the tour for me and others. Coincidentally, a YouTube video of Cecilia appeared on the Rick Steves’ website shortly after we returned home. I sent out the link so the rest of the group could also re-live and re-enjoy that memorable experience.
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