Monday, July 21, 2008

Under the gelso tree...


     Rapone, Basilicata. It was nearly midnight before we started dinner. Ten artists of various trades and talents gathered on the countryside estate of ceramicist Vito Natale, organized by the inestimable Concetta Di Cecca. The gelso tree seem to glow from within. Tiny yellow orbs dangled or dropped to the earth, sweetened our palates before the first course. Salt cured pork and sharp pecorino, chilled homemade white wine - a local falenghina - pasta gently tossed in fresh tomato 'salsa' and fruits of the sea, then coaxed to our plates by Concetta's brother Michele. Poached Orata followed, seasoned to perfection by Vito Z. Plenty of hearty bread and greens. Fresh peaches chilled in cold water and the dolce from Vito's brother - a maestro of pastries, in Calitri - Bar/Pasticceria Zabatta. The thick stone slab was first cool then warm to the touch as the evening waned, fireflies competed with stars...Some of the artists work can be viewed here - www.zabart.it or www.ceramichegrafio.it