Alessandra Montanari was born, raised and schooled in Bologna, Italy. After spending a period of her life living and working the U.S., she returned to the land of her origins, making her home in an old working family farm.
She renovated the farm’s master residence creating a country relais featuring six intimate and charming rooms overlooking the green hills and pastures surrounding Bologna.
Her passion for the traditions of her homeland inspired Alessandra to establish a cultural association dedicated to the exploration and rediscovery of the traditional Emiliana cuisine whose dishes are enjoyed throughout the world.
With the help of Alessandra’s dear friend Pina Marzocchi, the association’s activity revolves around a series of afternoon sessions, Cucina & Dintorni (cooking of the region). Mrs. Marzocchi is a true all around gastronomic expert whose knowledge includes making salame, salsiccia, coppa, and cheeses (her husband Piero is a Master Norcino)
The association’s main purpose is to offer weekly cooking courses for groups of six to nine persons, designed for both Italian and foreign participants. During the course, the guests have the opportunity to work side by side with highly qualified and prestigious visiting chefs preparing sumptuous meals in a “hands on” environment.
The dishes are then enjoyed over a dinner where the chef instructs the guests on the appropriate selection of noble wines to accompany the meal.