My tips for enjoying your Tuscan vacation

To bring everyone up to speed, Lisa and I recently went on vacation in Italy, that is why no FWF last month. Many thanks to Mom and Dad for taking care of Alexa. We spent most of our time in a little town in Tuscany (which I can't spell or say properly). Anyway, I am not one of those people that love everything about Italy, I like it, I had a great time, and I will go back, but there are things that can make one nuts while in Italy. So here are my tips for enjoying your Tuscan vacation (a.k.a. how to survive the quest for the ultimate olive oil).

1. In Italy driving is a contact sport, so drive until you hear glass and smell boar sauce. The only driving laws that seem to be enforced are the parking ones, park were you are not supposed to, and you will get a ticket. Drive 150 in a 50, its cool, just don't hit anything. Also get the damage waver for the rental car.
2. Don't look at maps, they lie. Follow the signs, most roads are very well marked. And most signs are intelligible even if you don't speak the language. (see next tip)
3. Road means one of many things, nicely paved super highway, 1.5 lane paved road, one lane paved road, unpaved gravel road, and wild pig trail with no guard rails and a 500 foot drop off.
4. Public toilets are everywhere. Only use them in extreme emergencies. Find a Cafe', buy a coffee, and use theirs. Lisa and I came up with a rating system (seat or no seat).
5. Lunch is from 12:00-2:30, most places close at 2:30 sharp. That places that are open after that you don't want to eat at. Stay away from places that have English menu's, the places that have no menu and give you little or no choice are my favorites (be brave, you will be rewarded).
6. Wine, like in America can be cheap or expensive. This is a change from our last trip, I couldn't find any expensive wine on that trip. The good news is that the cheap wine is very good. My opinion (wine snob that I am) order the house wine, you'll like it.
7. Insect repellent, bring it! Trying to communicate this at the pharmacy is hopeless (unless you speak Italian). Going to the pharmacy is very different from America. Most of the products are behind the counter, so be prepared to use hand signals, and point to body parts.
8. Everything is old, even the new stuff is old. They make it that way on purpose. If you want new and shiny go somewhere else.
9. Take your sense of humor, and leave your sense of urgency at home (they don't get it).
10. Talk to people, drink wine, exchange email addresses. We have been lucky enough to meet some very cool people, you will too.

Thanks to the people of Tuscany (and a few Americans, Brits, and Aussies) for providing us we a great vacation, hope we'll see you again.

Lucia Vineyards: 2004 Gary's Vineyard Pinot Noir

From the wine makers tasting notes, "The Garys Vineyard Pinot is very aromatic. It has a round nose of red fruits, crushed violets, and cinnamon spice. On the palate, the wine is full bodied with very fine tannins. The finish is long, and as is typical of the Garys, displays a nice acid profile." For once I think one of these tasting notes is right on. The only problem is that it is a little too full bodied (meaning a bit much on the alcohol). From a pricing/value standpoint it is as good as the Pisoni Estate Pinot Noir (the other wine this family makes) and it is easier to get.