world we created, paul lahote

Chapter 37

The Lahote couple strolls through the scenic vineyard, surrounded by rows of lush grapevines that stretch as far as the eye can see. Marisa Cuomo Winery was a charming location, the landscape dotted with terraced vineyards that cascade down toward the sparkling blue sea, framed by rugged mountains. Lucia could feel the warmth Mediterranean sun on her skin, feeling akin to that of a tender kiss, encouraging her muscles to loosen and to let the tension melt away.

"This is where we grow the grapes for our famous Fioduva white wine," their guide explained, gesturing to the neat rows of green vines. "Marisa Cuomo uses only the finest Ravello grapes, hand-picked at the perfect level. The microclimate here is ideal for these grapes -- the sea breeze, the warm sunshine, the mineral-rich soil. It all comes together to create something truly special."

"That must be an incredible amount of work to do it all by hand," Lucia noted, taking in the neat rows of vines.

Their guide nodded. "Absolutely. Marisa Cuomo is dedicated to quality over quantity, so every grape is carefully selected and picked at the perfect moment of ripeness. Let's head inside where the wine is fermented and aged in oak barrels to develop its complex flavours."

Lucia and Paul followed after the guide towards the appealing stone building. They step inside the spacious tasting room featuring high ceilings with exposed wooden beams, creating a rustic, refined space. Natural light pours in through the large arched windows, illuminating the rich wooden furniture and elegant decor.

"Marisa is very hands-on, carefully overseeing every step of the process," the guide explains as he pushes open the door leading to the back where the wine is made. He gestures to the stainless steel tanks. "This is where the freshly harvested grapes are first crushed and pressed. The juice is then carefully monitored as it ferments, with Marisa adjusting the temperatures and stirring lees to bring out the wine's full body and flavour."

They follow through to the dimly lit cellar. "After fermentation, the wine is transferred to these oak barrels. The interaction with the wood imparts subtle notes of vanilla and spice, perfectly complimenting the Ravello grapes."

Their guide led them back outside the winery, clasping his hands behind his back with a warm smile. "Now that you've seen the inner workings of our winery, I'd be happy to offer a few suggestions on how to make the most of your visit. If you're feeling peckish, our on-site restaurant, Ristorante Marisa Cuomo, serves up delectable regional cuisine. The menu features fresh local seafood, handmade pasta, and mouthwatering desserts -- all made with the same attention to detail that goes into our winemaking."

"We had brunch a bit earlier so we're not exactly hungry," Paul informed the guide, his hand slipping around his wife's waist and drawing her closer. It was instinctual as he did it so frequently.

The guide nodded. "If you'd prefer to explore the grounds a bit more, I can point you towards some lovely walking trails that wind through the olive groves and offer panoramic vistas of the entire estate. The gardens are in full bloom this time of year."

"That sounds lovely!" Lucia says with a smile. She looks up at Paul, with a raised brow. "What do you think? Maybe we can take some pictures while we're there?"

Paul nods and soon they are being led to the gardens, the pathway lined with vibrant plants and herbs. Aromatic rosemary and thyme thrive alongside colourful bougainvillaea, their petals a riot of pink and purple against the lush greenery.

Upon entering the gardens, the couple is greeted by a breathtaking sight. Lush rows of vines cascade down the terraced landscape, each vine meticulously cared for. The gardens were a tapestry of colours and textures, with neatly arranged flower beds and citrus trees bearing ripe lemons and oranges.