On Monday 5 August 2024, the picturesque village of Santa Maria della Versa will host the 4th edition of Calici & Sapori, one of the most eagerly awaited and appreciated food and wine festivals in Val Versa. The event, which for years has enlivened the historic centre of this charming locality, represents an unmissable occasion for all lovers of good food and quality wine, allowing them to taste the dishes of the best local restaurants combined with the renowned wines of the region in a single evening.
The central streets of Santa Maria della Versa will be animated by thirteen food and wine islands, located along a route enriched by green areas and coloured ambient lights that will create a magical and welcoming atmosphere. Each location will offer a unique combination of refined dishes and fine wines, enhancing the culinary and wine excellence of Val Versa and Oltrepò Pavese.
Among the novelties of this edition will be areas dedicated to live music, which will accompany the tastings, making the experience even more enjoyable and engaging. Guests will be able to stroll among the stations, savouring delicious culinary pairings and letting themselves be carried away by the melodic notes of local musicians.
Here is an overview of the food and wine stations that visitors will be able to discover during the evening:
1. ASTRA
o Dish: Smoked pork knuckle, apricots, platted lettuce and sea water.
o Wines: Tenuta Riccardi and Poggio Pregana.
2. VALDAMONTE
o Dish: Tricolour risotto with basil cream, robiola cheese drops and confit cherry tomato pesto.
o Wines: Alberto Fiori and Bosco Longhino.
3. OSTERIA SORRISO
o Dish: Fried gnocco with cured meats.
o Wines: Dezza 1890 and Cinzia Achilli.
4. GUSTÓ
o Desserts: Exotic fruit and coconut cake with white chocolate ganache; chocolate and almond cake with dark chocolate ganache; vegan apple cake.
o Wines: Calatroni Emilio.
5. GIOELE
o Dish: Fried cod with lemon mashed potatoes, polenta wafer and stewed spring onion.
o Wines: Tenuta Quvestra and La Versa.
6. POGGIACOLLE
o Dish: Malfatti butter and sage.
o Wines: Faravelli Gabriele and Vigano.
7. B&A
o Desserts: Tiramisu semifreddo; rich apple puff pastry with sultanas and hazelnut crumbs.
o Wines: Il Montarco.
8. GARYBALDI
o Dish: Seared scallops with miso sauce and Brallo potato mousse.
o Wines: Alessio Brandolini and Manuelina.
9. RAVIOLO HOUSE
o Dish: Braised ravioli.
o Wines: Prago and Bagnasco.
10. BORGO DEI GATTI
o Dish: wholemeal Bruciamonti-flour loaf, with varzese sausage, caramelised Breme onion and Stafforella fondue.
o Wines: Cà degli Orsi and Buscaglia.
11. BENIAMINO
o Dish: Varzi salami, coppa piacentina, culatta emiliana, 24-month grana padano, spicy gorgonzola, pecorino, jam/honey.
o Wines: Tàja and Tosi.
12. CHALICE OF CHERUBS
o Dish: Tripe with legumes.
o Wines: Calatroni and Francesco Maggi.
13. THE BOSCASS
o Dish: Goat‘s cheese muffins and toasted hazelnuts with sweet-and-sour Breme onion.
o Wines: Poggio Rebasti and Villa Maggi.
Calici & Sapori is not just a food and wine event, but a true celebration of the culture and traditions of the Val Versa. Every dish, every goblet of wine tells a story of passion, dedication and territory. Participating in this event means immersing yourself in a sensory journey that stimulates the palate and enriches the spirit.
Don‘t miss the opportunity to live a unique and unforgettable experience. Mark the date of 5 August 2024 in your diary and prepare to be conquered by the authentic flavours and heady aromas of Calici & Sapori. We look forward to seeing you in Santa Maria della Versa for an evening of taste and conviviality!
