What began as a casual lunch blossomed into something extraordinary. In 2021, after becoming a part-time resident of the Italian hilltop town of Cortona, I had the great fortune of meeting Marco Molesini. From our first lunch, it felt like family, bonded by a shared love of food, wine, and the pure joy of living—la dolce vita.

Our friendship evolved into a creative partnership, and I began a collaboration with the Molesini Wine Club, the venture helmed by Marco and his brother Paolo, based in Cortona. I create thoughtfully curated recipes that are included in the wine club members’ shipments and the lively virtual wine tastings. Imagine uncorking a stunning Italian bottle, pulling up a chair, and joining Marco on Zoom, all while enjoying an appetizer you’ve made.

My recipe development is a labor of love and intention. Every dish is fashioned to complement the unique character of the featured wines, from the bold structure of a Piedmontese Barolo to the brightness of a Sicilian white. I draw on Italian culinary traditions, seasonal ingredients, and my passion for approachable, delicious cooking to offer recipes that elevate the tasting experience and bring a true sense of place to every sip and bite. 

The Molesini Wine Club is a gateway to the best of Italy’s wine culture, offering exceptional wines largely unavailable outside Europe. Marco and Paolo collaborate with more than 1,000 wineries across the country, sourcing top labels from small producers who craft the finest boutique wines. Together, they invite you to explore the rolling vineyards of Tuscany, the cellars of Piedmont, the hills of Sicily, and the many hidden, lesser-known wine regions that make Italy one of the most exciting wine destinations in the world.