A salumeria tasting during the workshop. The butcher ages the cured meats in local wine and salt –that’s all. That’s me helping myself at the bottom right. Co-host Demet, who speaks Italian, smiles at our poetic cutter and server. (Photo by Owen Rubin)
Because I had such a blast at last year’s Italy food and wine writing workshop, it was easy to say “Yes!” when co-host Demet Guzey suggested we do it again.
Because of the small number of rooms in our spectacular villa in Verona, we can host only 6-7 students. That just means more attention from the instructors! Last year we sold out quickly. So if you wanted to join us, you have another chance: Come April 19-23, to our 2018 Italy food and wine writing workshop.
Here’s what a freelance food writer said about last year’s workshop:
“I feel refreshed and more engaged in the writing community after my time spent with such a lovely group of talented women writers. What a treat it was! I truly appreciate the hard work and dedication you put into the program—it was very well done. And thank you for sharing your experience with someone so new to the professional writing world. I am honored to have learned from such accomplished women!
My mom and aunt were thrilled to be able to join our group. Their first experience overseas well exceeded their expectations thanks to you two! I don’t think they knew that such great food and wine existed. It was a trip they’ll never forget. I think we are all spoiled now!” -Jessica Vaughn
As Jessica mentioned, students can bring a non-participating partner, relative, friend or a fellow food writer to stay in the rooms with a connected bedroom. We discount the price if so. All the rooms are beautifully furnished. They have views of the countryside and some have balconies. One has a bathroom with a chandelier and painted ceiling!
During the workshop, you’ll make — then eat — these tender tortelli at a famous wine country restaurant. The restaurant serves them sauteed in butter and showered with shaved summer truffles and Parmesan. I’ve been dreaming of them since returning to the U.S.
What we’ll do and what to expect:
We’ll spend our days writing, enjoying Italian food and wine, taking in the stunning Valpolicella wine country, talking about food writing and goals, and learning about wine. Demet has a certificate in wine and spirit education, she will get us into a prestigious winery for a tasting with one of the owners.
One of the best parts is bonding with the fascinating people who come. Last year we hosted mostly Americans: an artisan food producer, a freelance writer, a retired magazine editor, and a self-published cookbook author. We also hosted a Mexican pastry chef and political blogger, and a Swedish food blogger who consults to food companies in her day job.
We’ll meet each day in the villa’s beautiful dining room. Here I’m probably talking about food writing technique, with examples. (Photo by Owen Rubin)
Check out the itinerary, the location, and the costs, which range from $2080 for connecting rooms to $2465 for the master suite.
Even if you can’t make it, it’s fun to imagine yourself at the table in this glorious location — drinking a glass of wine, admiring the gardens, and writing about your goals or that day’s excursion in your notebook.
Hi,
I am interested in possibly attending your workshop. Is there still space?
Wren
Hi Wren, this particular workshop ended, but there will be another one this summer that I will announce soon.