Join us on a journey to explore the allure of sparkling wine as we embark on a taste test experience like no other! From the elegance of Champagne to the charm of Prosecco, we’ll delve into the world of sparkling varieties and uncover the perfect food and wine pairing to elevate your next celebration. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or just looking to cheers to bubbly, this video is for you. Get ready to discover the latest sparkling wine trends and tips to take your wine game to the next level. So sit back, relax, and let’s pop the cork on this unforgettable tasting adventure!

The conversation explores the life and experiences of Rocco Scolamacchia, who grew up in Toritto, Italy, during the mid-20th century. It delves into his childhood memories, the impact of World War II on his family, the struggles of survival during difficult times, and the importance of family connections and genealogy. With his daughter Lisa the discussion highlights the cultural heritage and legacy that shapes their identities today. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into their family histories, cultural traditions, and the rich culinary heritage of their Italian roots. They share personal anecdotes about family gatherings, local customs like Baker’s Night, and the challenges of tracing genealogy. The discussion also touches on the nuances of dialects in Italy, the significance of family names, and the importance of maintaining connections across generations. The speakers express pride in their heritage and the unique flavors of their hometown, highlighting the role of food in their cultural identity. Podcast Click here to join our group on Facebook Video

It was an honor and privilege to interview Nobel Laureate Dr. Ignarro. From humble Italian roots to a breakthrough medical discovery.  In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Lou Ingnarro shares his Italian heritage, family history, and the journey that led him to win the Nobel Prize in medicine. He discusses the significance of nitric oxide in health and medicine, its discovery, and its impact on various medical treatments, including Viagra. Lou emphasizes the importance of curiosity and education in pursuing a career in science, reflecting on his upbringing and the influence of his parents. The conversation also touches on the challenges of obtaining Italian citizenship and the personal connections to his roots. Lou Ingnato’s family hails from Napoli and Sicilia. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in medicine in 1998. Nitric oxide is crucial for cardiovascular health. Curiosity played a significant role in Lou’s scientific journey. Education can come from personal motivation, not just formal schooling. Lou’s parents never attended school, yet they inspired his success. Nitric oxide has applications in treating erectile dysfunction and hypertension. Exercise and diet can boost nitric oxide levels in the body. Lou has visited Italy over 50 times since winning the Nobel Prize. He published a memoir titled ‘Dr. No’ about his life and discoveries. “I am known as the father of Viagra.” “You can boost nitric oxide with exercise.” “You need to be curious in life.” “Curiosity is key to scientific discovery.” “My parents never went to school.” Podcast Click here to join our group on Facebook Video

In this conversation, Bob Sorrentino interviews Anthony Taddeo from the Italian musical group Allaboara. They discuss Anthony’s Italian heritage, family roots, and the traditions that shaped his identity. The conversation delves into the discovery of Italian folk music, the formation of Allaboara, and the cultural impact of their performances. They explore regional variations in Italian folk music, the instruments used, and the evolution of the genre. The discussion highlights the importance of preserving cultural practices and the audience’s emotional connection to the music. Family traditions play a significant role in shaping identity. Italian folk music is diverse and rich in history. Allaboaro aims to preserve and revitalize Italian folk music. Audience reactions often highlight emotional connections to the music. Regional dialects in Italian folk music can be challenging for audiences. The importance of storytelling in performances is emphasized. There is a growing interest in reviving traditional practices in Italy. Sound Bites “Italian culture has always been at the core of my identity.” “There’s so much more to Italian folk music than I thought.”” “I felt so moved by the performance.” “This project is really about preserving our culture.” “Folk music speaks to the human experience.” Podcast Click here to join our group on Facebook Video

Click here to join out Facebook group The original plan for today was to make a quick late morning stop to the cemetery in Cercola to see where my great-grandfather, Nicola Piromallo was buried. However, at the lunch on June 4th my Zio Nicola (more about that later) told me that he wanted us to visit family in Torre del Greco. So we were able to work that into the schedule. Cercola is about 30 minutes from Naples and it was were my grandparents lived before coming to America and three of my dad’s older siblings were born there. So the anticipation was high. As we drove through the streets I could almost sense their presence. We were met outside the cemetery gate by Nicola and his daughter Nadia and he led us to the spot were my great grandfather and his grandfather, grandmother, mother, father and aunt are interred. He also showed us the old Piromallo crypt that was sold by my second great-grandfather Saverio Giovanni Piromallo. Apparently, Saverio like gambling and women and sold off much of his inheritance. Now a little about how Nicola in my zio even though he is my dad’s first cousin and younger then me. My great-grandfather remarried in 1913 after my great-grandmother passed away. His second wife was only 30 years old and had two children Emilia and Anna both born a few years before my dad. Nicola is the son of Anna and therefore my 1st cousin once removed. The custom in Naples is that out of respect you refer to your parents 1st cousin as zio or zia. Hence, Nicola is my zio! I would add that up until a few months ago I did not know about Nicola. For the trip to Torre del Greco, Nicola wanted me to ride in his car with Nadia. During the short ride, we were able to tell each other about family events and I learned that my grandmother’s youngest brother, Giovanni settled in Torre del Greco and that another brother Edoardo was an admiral and settled in Taranto Calabria. When we arrive we are met by zia Ida, zia Elide the daughters of my grandmother’s brother and zia Antoinetta who was married to their brother. We were greeted like long lost family with hugs and kisses and great big smiles. I have to say I was quite overwhelmed. They immediately started to pull out photos of my grandparents, cousins and even my parents wedding, with my grandmother’s handwriting on the back. And, to top it off, they even knew family gossip from the 1960’s! I was blown away to say the least. Zia Antoinetta then calls her son Giovanni in San Diego so I can talk to him. After all of that catching up, we were led into the kitchen to have some home made sausage and cheese pastry, which I was told I a Piromallo recipe, pastries and limoncello. We were completely surprised by all off this and felt like we went back in time and were sitting around a Sunday dinner table. I cannot express how comfortable and relaxed we were and loved being united with family. Our next stop was the Sorrentino Winery ( no relation ) in Boscotrecase on the slopes of Vesuvius. I have been anticipating this for quite some time and they did not disappoint. Besides a respite from the heat in Naples, the view was amazing. We had a light lunch and sampling of five different wines. Great appetizer, followed by spaghetti with fresh tomato sauce and cake filled with jam made on the premises. We bought six bottles to ship home, but don’t despair you can order online for shipping to the USA here. If you are in the Naples area, I highly recommend a trip to the vineyard. With Umberto Rusicano from Vini Sorrentino Vesuvio March 17 2025 at Terra Momo Princeton NJ.