Andy Marino
The Italian Heritage Club recently gathered for an evening that perfectly blended education, storytelling, and exceptional wine. Members raised their glasses for a guided Italian wine tasting experience. The club was honored to welcome Tom Oetinger, a highly respected wine educator with an advanced certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET) and a secondary certification as an Italian wine professional. Many attendees recognized Tom from his years of leading wine tastings in SaddleBrooke and his insightful wine columns in the SaddleBrooke newspaper.
Under Tom’s expert guidance, the group explored four standout wines representing the distinct terroirs of Italy: Northern, Central, Southern, and Sicily. To complement the nuances of each pour, the wines were served alongside sharp Pecorino cheese and table water crackers, which added to the enjoyment of the tasting experience.
Stories from the Old Country
The evening wasn’t just about the palate; it was also about the rich tapestry of family history. One member captivated the room with a unique story involving a distant relative: Al Capone. As the story goes, Capone’s mother grew weary of the constant influx of tourists visiting her son’s gravesite. Seeking peace, she reportedly paid a Catholic Monsignor a significant sum of money to move his remains to an unmarked grave under the cover of night. The story has been confirmed by a priest in her family. Al Capone now rests quietly along the edge of a cemetery fence—a fascinating piece of lore that added a touch of intrigue to our gathering.
Culinary Pride
The festivities continued with a free raffle, where one lucky member took home an exceptional bottle of Italian wine. This was followed by a dessert hour that truly showcased the spirit of the club. In a testament to Italian-American culture, nearly every dessert served was homemade. For many members, sharing food is more than a meal — it is a primary way to socialize and build bonds with neighbors. The abundance of hand-crafted desserts made for an evening of warm fellowship and genuine connection.
Looking Ahead: Dinner at Scordato’s!
Our mission to celebrate “All Things Italian” continues on April 19 at Scordato’s. The restaurant has reserved a large private room for our club, and guests will be able to order directly from their excellent menu.
To join in the fun, please email sbitalianclub@gmail.com to reserve your spot. We are always eager to welcome new neighbors! To become a member, you or your spouse must be a SaddleBrooke resident of Italian descent. Annual dues are $10 per person. Please email us at abitalianclub@gmail.com for additional information.
We look forward to welcoming even more neighbors as we continue celebrating Italian culture and building lasting friendships within our SaddleBrooke community.