The expressions of beauty of Alba, Italy are as numerous as the exponential combinations of culinary creations, spiritual wines, and truly happy people found here. Each combination genuinely beautiful in its own unique way.

When did civilization first begin here? Was it the Third Millennium BC or the Sixth? The debate will continue perhaps forever, but it is known that the ancient settlement here was quite extensive on the left bank of the Cherasca River just before the confluence with the Tanaro.

Was it those first inhabitants who brought with them the Nebbiolo grape from some far-off land, or was this introduced later, perhaps during the middle ages when the battles were fought for control of this fertile land? And who was the hero that day the tower was engulf in flames and he ignored the pain as the heat burned through his flesh as he ushered the Women and Children who had been sheltered in the tower from the raging battle below? We will never know. But his strength and love remain very much alive here through eternity.

These are the thoughts that traverse my mind as I now rest in the comfort of T. Ristoro … a café that defines the beauty of character.