TUSCAN ADVENTURE PART DEUX

by Katrina and Michelle

May 24, 2013

We awoke to a downpour this morning. Quite a bit cooler and most of us do not have quite enough outerwear. This did not stop the prompt rendezvous of all 17 for coffee and croissants AND our practice session. Without pause, we turned on the "Mamma Mia" tune and began our rehearsal softly so as not to disturb sleeping guests. Three run-throughs and we feel ready for tonight. Even the staff is looking forward to this closely guarded secret.

I haven't touched so much on our colleagues. This group has become a close and warm gathering of friends. We change places at each meal to become better acquainted with every person. There is constant laughter and this production effort was accepted unanimously without hesitation by any single individual. I think it rare that we might build these bonds as rapidly as we have and there is much care taking of one another. I am certain Michelle and I will visit with several of these friends in the future.

Patty and Bill have provided a unique, adventurous and fulfilling vacation. We all understand that we a piece of their personal life tour. This part of Tuscany is breathtakingly beautiful and the local residents have been warm and gracious. We were, perhaps, most surprised by the shear amount of food that would be offered to us. Having said that, each venue has been different from the one before it. All of our chef, winery, shopping and "factory" hosts are good friends of the Sutherlands, not simply a source of income.

Our final culinary instruction was held at Belagaggio Agriturismo, a villa owned by a wealthy landowner in Montefollonico.  Five guest room apartments are open to the public as is the main grotto for wedding and other large gala celebrations. The home and gardens are the most beautiful we have seen this trip. There are olive fields, sheep herds and a vineyard. We had three generations from this family - grandmother, mother and daughter - guide us through our cooking tasks. As with all other recipes, there is no exact measurement of any ingredient. They just keep saying you cannot fail. The ricotta/spinach stuffed squash blossoms were dipped in a light batter and fried. We made three different thin-crust  pizzas and an eight- layer lasagna with a delectable meat sauce. One would think that with eight layers of pasta this would be overwhelming heavy. Not so. It was the lightest lasagna I have ever ingested. Tiramisu with espresso-soaked vanilla wafers concluded this culinary feast. As usual, we were served at an elegantly set table with flat and bubbly water, red and white wine. I think the Sutherlands saved the most beautiful setting for last.

The table in the dining room at La Chiusa was strewn with wine glasses and flowers. A bubbly Proseco was served when our group arrived in the week's dressiest attire. This was graduation night. An eight course dinner was far from overwhelming. Each course was very small, beautifully presented and oh so delicioso! Following the antipasti course Michelle rose and pushed the "play" button on the iPad. The melody from "Mamma  Mia" filled the dining room. In a wave from center table to the ends we arose, donned our culinary aprons and began our Tuscan Broadway production. The staff emerged from the kitchen, the other guests quieted down and we burst into song. The confused expressions on Patty and Bill's faces showed that this interruption did not instantly resonated with them. Once we truly had launched they realized they were being serenaded. Tears, embarrassment and laughter followed. We were thrilled for our few days of work paid off.  Bill acknowledged that NO other class had ever honored them this way. We felt warmed by their response. Toasts ensued. As did the operatic voice our of Chinese colleague, 

I-Lin, who sang both an Italian and Chinese stanza from operas. We were in awe. Yes, we were among extraordinary and talented people.

Bill reminded us each day in class that a diploma was awaiting only those who had passed the rigors of his culinary school. We were honored with 100% success when he bestowed Patty's artistically designed diplomas upon each participant.

La Chiusa surprised us with an African drummer, one of their staff. This young, very dark-skinned man teaches disabled men in Siena to play the drums. He involved us in the drum playing, and we all joined in with dance moves. If only you could have seen the smile and pride his face displayed while treating us to a taste of his culture. This went on 'til way past midnight. A farewell and warm affection was exchanged by all who might depart before breakfast.