A visit to our producer Castellaro Bergaglio was nothing less than an extraordinary immersion into the foods, culture, hospitality and customs of this picturesque part of Piemonte. Marco Bergaglio, the consummate host, made certain that we had a most in-depth understand and planned our trip accordingly.
Our final meal together, set in the picturesque tasting room at the winery, was something we had been anticipating for several days – Ravioli a Culo Nudo al Gavi. Gavi Ravioli takes full advantage by featuring the heralded white wine reflecting the town’s name….
Growing up watching the Nonna generation gather golden blossoms from their gardens early morning, it was difficult for me to appreciate why they considered flowers a food source, after all the more Americanized kids were ripping open bags of Lays Potato Chips. In those days, ethnic food was viewed much differently than it is today and frequently in a less than positive way; especially by the children and grandchildren of immigrants who only wanted to fit in with their school friends…. 
Producer visits are essential part of importing Italian wine; only then are you able to truly understand the varietal in context. This May we were pampered by both of our Puglian producers: vineyard expeditions, lunches, dinners and private tours. Our stay in Lecce, or the Florence of the South was certainly one of the highlights of our trip.
