TOUR

I call this trip My Nine Perfect Days because it brings together all the things I love, culture, art, food, wine, and friends.

As we traverse the region, we'll be immersing ourselves in the culinary traditions that have made this region so famous.

We’ll discover what I call the three jewels of Emilia-Romagna: Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, and traditional balsamic vinegar. We’ll see firsthand how these iconic foods are made, taste them at their source, and learn the traditions that have been passed down through generations.

We’ll hunt for truffles in the forest and then enjoy a three-course lunch showcasing the flavors of these black truffles. We’ll learn from my dear friend, Elena, how to make the perfect tortelli, and from another friend, Louisa, roll pasta by hand using the traditional mattarello. We’ll visit an olive oil mill and indulge in a tasting at a renowned chocolatier. And, of course, what would a trip to Italy be without plenty of gelato?

But Emilia-Romagna is about so much more than its extraordinary food. We’ll connect with the culture and history of the region through its cathedrals, breathtaking castles, and fascinating cities and villages. We’ll visit smaller gems like Piacenza and Brisighella, as well as renowned cities like Parma and Bologna. We’ll wander through an antiques market, visit a ceramic laboratory to learn about the ancient art of pottery, and stroll through a fourteenth-century village with a fascinating history.

There will, of course, be time for retail therapy, too, because no trip to Italy is complete without bringing home something special.

These nine days are more than a culinary journey. They are an opportunity to experience Emilia-Romagna through the connections I’ve made over the years: the people who have welcomed me into their kitchens, shared their traditions, and opened their homes and businesses to me. It is my hope that you’ll leave with wonderful memories, new friendships, and a deeper connection to this remarkable region, just as I have.