Rooted in Southern Italy
Calabria History
Calabria is a place wrapped in mystery. Italy’s southern toe, it’s a region shaped by centuries of occupation, yet defiantly its own. Calabrians say their greatest achievement was convincing the world they don’t exist.
Calabrians don’t claim to be Italian—they’re Calabrian with a language all their own, a mix of Italian, Albanian and Greek.
Despite rocky terrain and limited farmland, Calabrians make the most of every plot. Tomatoes, artichokes, beans, citrus, wild mushrooms and 11 grapes fill the markets. Fishermen bring in cod, sardines and swordfish, while pigs, goats and sheep are raised in the hills.
And then there’s the wine. Bold, rustic and ancient. One, Donna Elena from the Boccafolle winery, is named for Oscar’s aunt and still poured in our dining room today.
This is Calabria, Italy
