Mello-brunello

So, we've left Africa and moved on to civilization, ie Italy! We're rewarding ourselves after months of questionable food, no raw veggies and horrible beverages with pizza, salad and wine galore! We're in Siena now, in the heart of Tuscany. Yesterday, we went on a wine tour of the Montalcino area, which produces Brunello, Ryan's favorite wine. The highlight of the tour was a stop at a little winery in Torre Neri (black tower). We were guided through the cellars by Mario, frisky 78-year-old vinter who only spoke Italian. He then proceeded to get us drunk, feeding us wine throughout the tour, in addition to the very liberal tasting at the end, which included a shot of grappa. After getting completely toasted, he passed out the orderform. We may be sleeping on the street for the rest of our trip in Italy, but at least we have 4 bottles of great wine!!

Next on to Venice to meet Ryan's parents, hoping they like gelato, since that's our main staple here.

-Betsy and Ryan