13:00 I am having lunch, right now, in the piazza of the stony village of Serrapetrona embedded i n the mountains like a gem. My fettuccine with mushrooms and truffles are filling the air with perfumes. The wine is a Dry Vernaccia which is a little weak to match this plate. Though, the sparkling bubbles and the acidity clean the mouth fairly well and leave a pleasant aftertaste.

Time for a double espresso, since I will be on the road this afternoon.

Short drive: in 45 minutes I went from the mountain to the sea. The Adriatic Sea will be on my right hand side for the next few days, since I will be diving north. I am curious to see how the salty air of this small sea affects the grapes and wines.

16:00 I am in Civitanova Marche right now in the DOC area of Colli Maceratesi and Rosso Piceno. However, I am relaxing in one of the many beaches. I am looking towards the sea (east) and the sun is behind me, setting behind the mountains. This is awkward for me since I grew up on the west coast of Italy where it is exactly the opposite. I have to say, though, that it is much nicer on the other coast. I love watching the sun diving in the water on the horizon.

Afterwards, I went to the Boccadigabbia Estate. Didn't taste anything because the owner was not there. This small estate produces a great 100% Cabernet called Akronte which was a winner in many competitions. Its cost at the cellar is E30.

Moving few km north, I arrive at the Monte Conero promontory. Monte Conero is an incredible spot. It is one of the only 2 rocky spots in the entire Italian Adriatic coast. All the rest of the coast is sand.