A final bicerin, then we’re off to Moncalvo. Running a bit late, we end up heading straight to the agriturismo (working farm that hosts guests) where the lunch is being held. Leonardo is greeting family and introducing us, and the birthday boy arrives (notice the Italian hand gestures):
we sit at a long table for 20 (the 9 elders sit at their own table) with a huge white truffle at each end. the courses begin and some come with truffles (black) and some we shave on ourselves.
a couple hours and more into it, time to stretch our legs! the countryside and our hosts, Tenute Barone:
back in to finish it all off (including a syrupy espresso which I had to doctor with foamy milk):
Hugs and goodbyes all around. Leonardo and Michael and I headed into Moncalvo to visit their smaller truffle festival, which is held entirely outside. Much smaller than Alba, but still fun and our arms are full by the time we leave. As we do, I duck into a pastry shop – MARILYN AND STACEY!!!! to indulge in a bit of nostalgia and pop a cream-filled pastry into my mouth.
And if you’re wondering what THAT’s about, just ask one of us!
up early and off to the airport and back home tomorrow. Arrivederci!