Mike Tommasi > wrote in message news:

> The other route is to stick to the country, go to small towns and be
> close to the vineyards. Maybe you have already seen the top sites in
> Italy, and the country route is appealing. In that case, you would
> need a car and I could recommend an itinerary, something like Barolo,
> Alto Adige, Friuli, Toscana, Campania.

Thanks Mike-

I have done the city thing before, so I am all about the countryside.
I did a bit of driving around the Piemonte region before, and am
particularly interested in exploring it further. Will have to stop by
Alba; I know it isn't truffle season, but they still have some really
tasty things for sale. We will have a car (and to respond to the
first few posts: I am cautious, but pretty darn fearless) and we like
to hit the unbeaten paths. I agree that the plan of going to a
vinotek first to try to local wines is a good one- know of any
particularly helpful/jolly vinotek owners?

I look forward to you thoughts!
e. winemonger