Thanks to Heather from Sapori e Saperi we went along to the wonderful wine fair in Lucca called Anteprima…..vini della costa Toscana….a veritable feast of wine and food.
It was held on 5th and 6th May in the beautiful Real Collegio behind San Frediano church in Lucca. We were there early and had the place almost to ourselves for a while.
The attendants were ready to show us their wares.
People began to arrive.
Heather and Jim headed first to the wines from Lucca and a very knowledgeable gentleman was there to help.
There was serious business going on in various rooms.
More people arrived.
We met the delightful Piero Tartagni from Fattoria Colleverde in the Lucca hills.
We liked several of his wines and will definitely head to his vineyard for more.
We also met Giovan Moretti from Terre del Sillabo who had more wonderful wine for us to sample.
I love his wine labels.
And the names of his wine.
By this time the room was crowded and becoming very noisy so we headed downstairs to the food area…..there had to be food.
These tasty treats came from I Salumi di Lane in Pietrasanta and we were most impressed.
There was a lovely young man making neci, chestnut pancakes in a traditional way. Round stones are heated and covered with chestnut leaves.
The batter is put on top of the leaves.
More leaves are put on.
Then the hot stone, and the process is repeated. The hot stones cook the pancake and then we got to eat them.
We had a great day and went home laden with goodies and some excellent information about local wine.
If you happen to be in Lucca next May, don’t miss Anteprima.
Here is my favourite photo of the day.
