Discover the secrets of Mediterranean cuisine and how it complements the marvellous wines of Valpolicella. There are week-long classes on specialist subjects, with visits to wineries, markets and olive oil and cheese producers to select the choicest produce.
The wine-tasting course centres on Verona, an historic city with a Roman arena, mediaeval streets and architecture, and a rich tradition of red wine production. Learn how to taste a wine, uncovering all its shades and subtleties. Why choose a DOC wine? Appreciate the difference between a Valpolicella and a Valpolicella Classico Superiore. Discover the magic of 'big' wines. And visit wineries and growers during the weekend and week-long courses.
Or take a geographical tour of Italy based around its olive oils. Beginning at Lake Garda you work down to Southern Italy. Along the way you learn what the characteristics of a good oil are, how you tell (or choose) one from another, and you learn how to taste and use oils in cooking.
The cheese tasting class covers the choice of cheese for every occasion. You will learn how to match them with wines, and which foods complement which cheeses. Learn how to cook with cheese and discover the basic differences between the many kinds of cheese.
The Tapestry classes cover theory and practice, and you'll be producing beautiful pieces for yourself. All this is done using traditional, simple looms and traditional yarns.
And the Ceramics class will let you create objects of beauty. You'll experiment with sculpture, bas-relief, oxide decoration and texture decoration. Courses are suited to adults who are trying pottery for the first time or who wish to gain further experience. You'll learn about firing in an electric kiln, a wood kiln and the Japanese art of Raku.
Please contact the owners to find more details about the courses, availability and prices. They speak English and German and will be delighted to help you plan your trip. Whichever you choose, these holidays in Valpolicella give you the opportunity to learn more about the real Italy.
