Outdoor markets are a staple to the Italian way of life. The “mercato” is a neighborhood street market that takes place once a week in a designated piazza in small villages or daily in bigger cities, usually in partially or fully covered structures. Not to be mistaken for a simple farmers market, the Italian mobile vendors offer a vast range of goods from local produce to clothing as well as housewares. In early Spring the town squares host additional luscious, colorful stands showcasing flowers & herbs galore. From rainbow colored pansies to a wide array of citrus trees and plants, the assortment of rich and ornamental blooms and shrubs is unlimited. Italians tend to start prepping their home gardens & terraces this time of year so whether for aristocratic villa grounds, traditional herb & vegetable gardens or breathtaking portico terraces, the local flower market is a must for all Italian families.
At dawn the vendors roll in to set up shop with nature’s bounty. Typically it’s a family business so it’s common to find three generations working the stall. While most of the produce stalls close at lunchtime, it’s worth it to stick around even longer as the flower & plant vendors usually shut down a little later & will offer some bargain deals on remaining flowers and potted plants. Market life is also quite a social activity as the vendors & local customers spend extra time exchanging gossip & discussing local news so be patient…the Italians don’t like to be rushed!
Formal villa grounds will recall the Renaissance gardens where geometry, symmetry and neatness are the distinguishing elements. These “giardini di lusso” aim for classic ideals of beauty & order intending to create a pleasurable environment for all the senses: water fountains, statues and grotto features will surely entertain the owners and impress their guests. These gardens tend to be more focused on intricate fern & shrub design rather than explosive color.
On the other hand, today’s domestic gardens have maintained their roots post WWII where home gardens served a functional purpose of growing herbs & vegetables. Modern Italian homes are a mix of both inspirations combining functionality & artistic design. Country homes with surrounding farmland will have space for an orchard, kitchen garden, flowerbeds, a patio section and often a water element like a small pond. Homes in the “centro storico” of the towns & villages pride themselves on scenic terraces that are adorned with splendid flowers, citrus plants and an abundance of aromatic herbs. A portico terrace provides the ideal ambiance for “al fresco” dining: 
an absolute must in maintaining an authentic “la dolce vita” lifestyle. In the coming months Italian families spend most of their family meals outdoors, either poolside or with breath taking views from the terrace to admire the landscape be it coastal, countryside or city rooftops.
As the weather gets warmer a Rose’ Wine is the perfect selection while you enjoy the blooming springtime gardens.
Along with your crisp chilled Rose’ may we suggest you pair your wine with some melon wrapped in Fratelli Beretta Prosciutto.