Tuscany...

Learned a little more about Fattoria Kappa (the winery I am currently working on) yesterday that I would like to share with you. It's a completely organic vineyard that was started about 7 years ago by two Austrians interested in making a excellent quality wine that can be sold at a reasonable price to restaurants and individuals. This past year they made about 18,000 bottles, and their ultimate goal is 40,000. Fairly small for a winery, but their goal is to keep their wine at an excellent standard and use traditional methods with a close knit group of workers. The market is about 80% in Germany and Austria with other distribution sites scattered in Europe. They have an incredible appreciation for excellent quality without a desire of great expansion which I really admire.

These photos were taken at the Kappa field. The two men are the owners and I was fortunate enough to tag along with them while they inspected the Sirah and the Bordeaux. They showed me the differences in the leaves and taste, and concluded that the harvest for the Sirah will start on tuesday! After this, Andrea took the four of us (3 yr old son Leonardo included) to one of his favorite beach side restaurants for some champagne and appetizers. The scene on the water was divine and it really made me miss the So Cal sunsets in Long Beach :)