As happy I am to be back home, a small part of my heart still remains in Italy. I already miss the food, culture, and knowing around every corner there is a new piece of art and history to be discovered. But here is where my closest friends and family reside, and honestly could not imagine living anywhere else without them. If at all possible, I will find a way to pack them up and take them back with me… we will see how that works out!

 

My family was more than excited to be picking me up from the airport, and boy was I glad to see them! However, I expect them to be almost just as excited when the shipment of Marco’s Italian wines comes in. I was able to order one bottle for each family (and of course a couple of extra for me 😉 ). Once they arrive I plan on using the knowledge I gained on the trip to describe the uniqueness of each of the wines they receive, and also prepare a simple food pairing so they can experience it in full effect. As many Italian’s believe to be true, wine after all is “made for food”.

 

One thing from this experience that I am the most grateful for is the knowledge I gained about the industry as a whole. The true complexity of producing wine is astonishing, the smallest changes have a huge impact on the final product. That is why I do not hesitate in calling it an art. Excited for the possible opportunities that await me in this industry I begin a search for a perfect fit. Whether life will lead me to become a wine maker or not, I am so happy to have had the chance of traveling to Cortona. New knowledge, friends, and worldly views make it all worthwhile.

 

I will be back for you one day Cortona!

Jana Hamilton