Amici Miei- My Mentors

Giovanni Cappelli-The James Beard of Chianti

Giovanni “Minuccio” Cappelli.

I considered him the James Beard of Tuscany, a wine-maker, restauranteur, bonvivant, and the ultimate “Oste”. An Oste ran an osteria, which was the simplest of all dining. The Oste/Host makes the dining experience. Giovanni was always there holding court.

When we used to take a cooking class there, we always ended with this Torta di Mele, topped with gelato and balsamico.

I will share this fabulous recipe after the paywall, for my paying subscribers. When you subscribe, you have access to all the archives, which include my Markets of Italy guide on Thatch app and an ebook of my cookbook, Secrets from my Tuscan Kitchen