mma', my good friend Paolo Rivella & his partner Asma own & operate the Agriturismo 'Le Vigne di Caldana'. Located in the valley below the small village of Caldana, it is approximately 100 km to the south west of Siena & only 20 km from the coastal towns of Follonica & Castiglione della Pescaia. Paolo, brother Claudio & their father are all accomplished wine makers & their family, originally from Piedmont, have a long tradition in the production of some of Italy's most famous wines. The Rivella family is well known in Italian wine circles, most notably for their involvement in helping to internationalize one of Italy's most famous & awarded varieties - Brunello di Montalcino.
Over the last month I was extremely lucky to live with Paolo & Asma helping out with their guests & looking after the grounds at Le Vigne di Caldana. Fortunately we had plenty of time to explore the country side on our bikes. Paolo, like most Italian males, is mad about motor bikes however due to his advancing years & a severe lack of fear he has decided to swap 'la moto' for 'la bicicletta'. I thought this may have slowed him down but boy was I wrong. I have seen plenty of guys go down hills fast but none like Paolo. The guy is awesome!
Grazie mille Paolo e Asma per un mese daverro memorabile.
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