The genius of Leonardo da Vinci remains unparalleled and his works of art and scientific knowledge are world renowned. One thing you might not know about him is that he also cultivated a small piece of land – about 8000 m² (a little under two acres) - as a courtyard vineyard. In 1498 the Duke of Milan, Ludovico Il Moro, gave this piece of land to da Vinci in part as a form of payment for The Last Supper painting, but above all it was a way to grant Milan citizenship to da Vinci. In some of his w...
Jul 01, 2025•36 min•Ep. 256
If you’re in search of short story collections to dive into this summer, The Perfect Fig by S.M. Walker should top your list. In this week's episode of the Flavor of Italy podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Sharon Walker, the English-born, Italy-based author behind this charming and thoughtful work. With a cover featuring luscious figs—my favorite fruit and one I grow myself—this book caught my attention before I read a single page. It turns out that the stories inside are just as irre...
Jun 24, 2025•35 min•Ep. 255
How Fungus-Resistant Vines Are Shaping the Future of Italian Wine A few decades ago, “PIWI wines” sounded like something out of a laboratory experiment. Today they are front-and-center in sustainable viticulture conversations from Alto Adige to Lake Garda—and for good reason. PIWI is an acronym drawn from the German Pilzwiderstandsfähige, meaning “fungus-resistant” vines. These precision-bred crossings can fend off downy and powdery mildew with far fewer chemical treatments than classic Vitis vi...
Jun 16, 2025•38 min•Ep. 254
Why Italy Feels Made for Cycling Tours Italy’s compact geography offers an unmatched cycling playground: from winding olive-lined lanes to vineyard-cloaked hills, dramatic mountain passes, and coastal stretches with endless views. Unlike the vast and often segregated landscapes of Australia or the United States, Italy’s countryside roads wind directly through life—farmers in the fields, shepherds with their flocks, hill towns clinging to ridge-lines. As A’qto owner Nancy notes, Italian drivers a...
Jun 08, 2025•44 min•Ep. 253
In Atina, in the mountainous heart of Lazio, far from Rome's bustling piazzas and tourist crowds, a young girl claims to have seen the Madonna (a Marian Apparition). Her story, quiet yet profound, forms the core of Broken Madonna, the debut novel by Anna Lucia. The book explores one of the most mysterious and emotionally charged phenomena in Catholic tradition: the Marian apparition. A Marian apparition is said to occur when the Virgin Mary appears to an individual or group, often children, conv...
Jun 02, 2025•29 min•Ep. 252
Italy’s Mother Trees, Fishery Valleys, Endangered Wildlife and Invasive Species When we think of Italy, our minds often turn to Renaissance art, Roman ruins, and unforgettable food and wine. But the soul of Italy is also found in its landscapes—its ancient trees, forgotten wetlands, and endangered species—and few people capture these overlooked treasures and environmental challenges better than documentary photographer Elisabetta Zavoli.
May 25, 2025•26 min•Ep. 251
The aggressive blue crab, a voracious predator, is devouring Italy's beloved clam population, now decimated by as much as 90% since 2023. This is a crisis you need to follow: listen today!!! Before we dive into this urgent environmental and culinary crisis affecting Italy today, I want to take a moment to celebrate something close to my heart: this is the 250th episode of the Flavor of Italy podcast! That’s 250 episodes dedicated to exploring Italian food, wine, culture, and the incredible peopl...
May 20, 2025•25 min•Ep. 250
Rome was buzzing this past weekend as something monumental unfolded: the selection of a new pope. And not just any pope. For the first time in history, the Roman Catholic Church has elected an American pontiff: Pope Leo XIV. I chatted with journalist Eric Lyman, a seasoned veteran of three papal elections—to discuss what made this conclave so unique, what led to Cardinal Robert Prevost's surprise selection, and what kind of leadership Pope Leo might bring to a divided global Church. We touched o...
May 13, 2025•46 min•Ep. 249
Tucked away in the lush forests of northern Lazio, just over an hour’s drive from Rome, lies one of Italy’s most unusual and intriguing destinations: Bomarzo Monster Park. Known in Italian as Parco dei Mostri (Park of the Monsters), this 16th-century garden is unlike any other—part dreamscape, part nightmare, and entirely unforgettable. This isn't your typical Renaissance garden filled with symmetry and order. Instead, it’s a chaotic, magical labyrinth of gigantic stone monsters, mythological cr...
Apr 20, 2025•33 min•Ep. 248
Tucked away just around the corner from the bustling Piazza Navona, in the heart of Rome, lies one of the city’s most magical and often overlooked gems: the Biblioteca Angelica. Founded in 1604, this remarkable library is one of Europe’s oldest public libraries, created with a revolutionary vision for its time—free and open access to books and knowledge, regardless of social standing or class. It was a bold idea, and one that continues to resonate today. Perhaps one of the most intriguing aspect...
Apr 20, 2025•28 min•Ep. 247
If you've ever cracked open a sweet, succulent blue crab in the United States, you know how beloved this shellfish is across the East Coast. But in Italy, the story of the blue crab is far more complicated—and, until recently, largely untold. This invasive species, once a stranger to the Mediterranean, is now causing ecological upheaval and threatening Italy’s prized seafood industry. In this episode, I spoke with marine biologist and entrepreneur Carlotta Santolini, co-founder of BluEat and the...
Apr 13, 2025•38 min•Ep. 246
The Glassmaker Exploring Venice, Murano, and the Art of Glass Beads through Tracy Chevalier’s Vision Venice, with its dreamy canals and labyrinthine streets, is a city steeped in timeless beauty. But nestled just a stone’s throw away is the island of Murano, a place with an equally rich legacy—one forged in fire, colored in precious minerals, and shaped by centuries of craftsmanship. It is here that Tracy Chevalier sets her luminous new historical novel, The Glassmaker. As the host of the Flavor...
Apr 07, 2025•47 min•Ep. 245
In Part Two of my conversation with cookbook author and recipe developer Maria Zizka, we dig even deeper and explore her work in Americanizing recipes, and her experience teaching at the University of Gastronomic Sciences in Northern Italy. Maria explains how she guides students through the many ways to write a recipe—always encouraging them to embrace their personal voice in the process. “Only you can write your version of a recipe,” she says, and that authenticity is what makes recipes truly s...
Apr 01, 2025•28 min•Ep. 244
How Cookbooks Travel Across Cultures, Part 1 A Conversation with Cookbook Author and Recipe Adaptor Maria Zizka When it comes to writing and publishing cookbooks, adapting recipes for different countries is far more complex than simply converting grams to ounces. In this week’s Flavor of Italy Podcast, I chatted with acclaimed cookbook author Maria Zizka, who specializes in the art and science of recipe adaptations—specifically the “Americanization” of international cookbooks. Maria is based in ...
Mar 25, 2025•32 min•Ep. 243
Lake Garda, Italy’s largest and most picturesque lake, is not just a scenic marvel but also a hub of exceptional wines. Thanks to its unique microclimate and diverse soil composition, this region produces some of Italy’s most distinctive and celebrated wines. From refreshing whites to complex reds, Lake Garda’s wines offer something for every palate. One of the best ways to visit the enormous Lake Garda and its wineries is to ferry hop from one lakeside town to another. Nestled on the western sh...
Mar 18, 2025•44 min•Ep. 242
If you’re looking for a fascinating drink that combines history, craftsmanship, and a bouquet of flavors, Italian Vermouth is a must-discover gem. And if you want to understand vermouth’s origins and why it’s so closely tied to Italy—and specifically the city of Torino—you need to hear the story that global sommelier and vermouth expert Martina Doglio Cotto shared with me on today' podcast episode. So what exactly is Italian Vermouth? Martina describes vermouth as a “liquid perfume,” an aromatic...
Mar 07, 2025•38 min•Ep. 241
Italy and wine are inseparable. To understand Italy, you need to understand its wine — and to truly appreciate Italian wine, you have to dig deep into its rich history, ancient traditions, and deep cultural roots. This connection comes to life beautifully in Marc Millon’s latest book, Italy in a Wine Glass: The Taste of History. I had the pleasure of speaking with Marc on my Flavor of Italy Podcast, and the conversation was a treasure trove of insights about Italian wine and its fascinating back...
Mar 02, 2025•32 min•Ep. 240
Magical Sulmona: A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Abruzzo Sulmona is a town that is often overlooked by travelers but is an absolute gem—Sulmona, in the heart of Abruzzo. Sulmona’s rich history, stunning architecture, culinary delights, and unique traditions—are the things that make this town a must-visit destination. And it's just an hour and a half drive from Rome. Listen in for all the details on what to see and do, where to eat, the culinary treasures of the town, how to get here and where to st...
Feb 25, 2025•37 min•Ep. 239
Italy is world-renowned for its incredible culinary heritage, from pasta and wine to olive oil and, of course, its Italian cheese. Today, we’re taking a deep dive into the fascinating world of Italian cheese with Gaetano Mina di Sospiro, also known as Tano—a certified Italian cheese sommelier. If you’ve ever wondered what it means to be a cheese sommelier, how Italy’s cheese culture compares to other countries, or which cheeses you absolutely must try, this is the perfect listen for you. Head to...
Feb 17, 2025•42 min•Ep. 238
Tucked away in the heart of northern Italy, just outside Milan, lies Cremona—a charming and historic city that remains one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. While it may not be on every traveler’s itinerary, Cremona offers a rich cultural experience, from its world-renowned violin-making tradition to its delectable local cuisine. If you’re looking for an authentic slice of Italy away from the bustling tourist crowds, Cremona is a must-visit destination.
Feb 11, 2025•31 min•Ep. 237
Help Shape the Future of Flavor of Italy + Win an Italian Gourmet Gift Box! It’s a new year, and I need your help shaping the future of Flavor of Italy ! I’ve created a quick survey to gather your thoughts on what you love about the podcast, newsletter, and website—and what you'd like to see more of. Your feedback is incredibly valuable, and to show my appreciation, I’m giving away a gourmet Italian gift box in a special drawing! One lucky survey respondent will win this delicious prize, so don’...
Feb 03, 2025•13 min•Ep. 236
5 Paleo-Christian Churches: A Suggested Itinerary for the Jubilee Year, with a focus on Rome's oldest churches....and nearby tasty eateries! Rome is a city of unparalleled history, where every cobblestone whispers tales of the past. As the Eternal City gears up for the 2025 Jubilee Year, it’s already brimming with visitors. But amidst the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican, there lies another Rome—a quieter, more spiritual side that echoes the city’s earliest Christian heritage. In...
Jan 27, 2025•32 min•Ep. 235
Anchovies: The Tiny Fish Making Big Waves If you think anchovies are just salty fillets for pizza or Caesar salad, it’s time to reconsider. These tiny fish pack a flavorful umami punch and carry a fascinating culinary history, as revealed in Christopher Beckman’s captivating book, A Twist in the Tail. I’ve been eager to interview Christopher for four years, and I’m thrilled to share our deep dive into the world of the anchovy with you. PLUS in the blog post that accompanies this episode, find my...
Jan 20, 2025•41 min•Ep. 234
The brand new Health Report on Alcohol AND the booming rise of non alcoholic wines, a sector that's reshaping the wine landscape. In a world increasingly conscious of health and wellness, few topics stir as much debate as alcohol consumption. The brand new Health Report on Alcohol, particularly the Surgeon General's recent findings, has sparked significant conversations about alcohol's role in health, culture, and industry. Adding to the mix is the booming rise in non alcoholic wines, a sector t...
Jan 14, 2025•45 min•Ep. 233
Missoni, the legendary Italian designer, is renowned for its vibrant and iconic zigzag patterns and innovative knitwear. Co-founders Rosita and Ottavio Missoni’s story is one of passion, creativity, and resilience. They built more than a brand; they created a family tradition that celebrates color, craftsmanship, and the joy of life. Today, their two remaining children and a dedicated team carry forward this vision, ensuring that the Italian Designer Missoni continues to exemplify innovation and...
Jan 07, 2025•22 min•Ep. 232
Italy is a dream destination for all travelers, but in so many ways it holds a particularly special allure for women. Whether you're a woman exploring on your own, with a group of friends, or through a curated tour, the options for unique and enriching experiences in Italy are endless. Today I chatted with Susan Van Allen who specializes in Italian travel for women. Have a listen and head to the show notes for details on Italian travel for women programs, destinations, and unique things to do an...
Dec 30, 2024•31 min•Ep. 231
If you’re seeking exquisite craftsmanship and timeless Italian design, Florence is a must-visit destination for art, history, and artisan treasures. Among the city’s most revered artisans is Angela Caputi, a name synonymous with bold, vibrant jewelry that transcends fashion and enters the realm of fine art. Recently, I had the pleasure of exploring Angela Caputi’s workshop in Florence with my daughter, and the experience was one of the highlights of our visit. Let me take you behind the scenes i...
Dec 17, 2024•26 min•Ep. 230
How to recognize true caviar, how to enjoy it, tips for serving it, and why this luxurious ingredient is perfect for your next celebration. This is Part 2 of my chat with John Giovannini, the owner of the premier Italian caviar producer, Ars Italica. This episode digs into the culinary side of caviar. Although I had no idea that Italy was the second largest producer of exquisite caviar in the world, Italian caviar will now star in my New Year's Eve menu: the one evening of the year when I really...
Dec 10, 2024•27 min•Ep. 229
Italian Caviar: A Culinary Treasure and a Celebration of Sustainability Caviar—a delicacy often associated with Russian or Persian origins—has a surprising and delicious counterpart in Italy, the world's third largest producer. Known for its fine wines, artisanal cheeses, and world-renowned pasta, Italy is also a significant player in the world of premium caviar. In fact, Italian caviar production, rooted in centuries-old traditions, is making waves globally for its exceptional quality and commi...
Dec 02, 2024•33 min•Ep. 228
Holiday Gift Guide 2024: Perfect Gifts for Every Italian Food & Wine Lover The holiday season is here, and finding the perfect Italian-themed gift has never been easier! My curated guide is ideal for anyone who loves Italian cuisine, wine, and culture. From inspiring books to practical kitchen tools and gourmet treats, my thoughtful ideas bring the spirit of Italy into every home. Make sure you listen to this week's podcast episode where I take a deep dive into the details of top 2024 book r...
Nov 26, 2024•24 min•Ep. 227
