Brighter times are ahead for Milan, which is getting a jump start with the World’s Fair, as predicted. The Economist looks at the state of the Milanese economy.

Limoncello cocktails. That’s right.

There have been a lot of erroneous articles about olive oil circulating lately. The Wall Street Journal sets the record straight, with an article penned by Nancy Harmon Jenkins, the leading authority on the green juice. See Our Italian Library to learn more about Virgin Territory, the book she recently wrote and our selection for book club two months ago.

Does that article make you worried about what imposters lie in your olive oil cabinet? Want proof we carry the good stuff? Take a look at the Presidium from Slow Foods, which lists some of the best producers. “The olive growers who join the national Presidium for Italian extra-virgin olive oil must have olive groves with cultivars that are indigenous to the area and managed without the use of synthetic fertilizers or herbicides. In the case of treatment, only products with low environmental impact and that guarantee no residual in the final product are allowed…joining the Presidium requires that at least 80% of the plants are at least 100 years old. ” From Puglia, we proudly carry De Carlo olive oil. 

Think all of this oil obsession is a bit over the top? Check out this article from Organic Authority on why Italians are so obsessed with their oil.

This weekend in Rome, the spectacular tradition of rose petals fluttering down through the oculus of the Pantheon can be enjoyed Sunday 24 May following 10:30 Mass for the feast of Pentecost.

If you’re more locally based, check out the free tasting we are hosting this Sunday! This Sunday the 24th, please join us for a Taste of Italy. Presented by Andrea Tosolini, importer of fine Italian foods, from Fruit of the Boot. We will be tasting sweets and favorites from around all of Italy. Join us for free bites from 1:00 – 4:00 PM, here at Via Umbria. For more information contact Elsa at elsa@viaumbria.com.

Have a wonderful extended weekend!

— Via Umbria