It’s Thursday and that means indigenous varieties over here at Avvinare. The latest grape that I’ve learned about is called Bonamico nero. It hails from Tuscany, specifically from the area around Pisa. It tends to be cultivated in the plains and lower hills. It is a blending grape that is quite vigorous but has little color.

The leaning tower of Pisa is undoubtedly one of the great sites. Yes, it is touristy but it’s also incredibly beautiful. Pisa is in fact, a very lovely city that is often overlooked except for this building.

The entire complex around the Duomo, the Campanile and the Camposanto is magical in my view. You can also see the complex from the highway which always amazes me.

I love the altar inside the Duomo that was created by Andrea Pisano.

Sculpture is one of my great loves thanks to early teachings and learning with my mother who is a sculptor. Something about the Pisano carvings is just so miraculous. The last time I visited Pisa some years ago, I didn’t stop to drink or eat anything but the Colli Pisani are making some interesting wines.