Did you know...
Aceto balsamico or Balsamic vinegar is made from grape must – grape pressings which have never been permitted to ferment into wine.
As far back as 900 years ago, vintners in Modena were making balsamic vinegar, which was taken as a tonic and bestowed as a mark of favour to those of importance. Sweet white Trebbiano grape pressings are boiled down to a dark syrup and then aged under rigid restrictions. The syrup is placed into oak kegs, along with a vinegar "mother" and begins the 12 years aging process. Over the years it graduates to smaller and smaller kegs made of chestnut, cherry wood, ash, mulberry, and juniper until this important ‘flavour of Italy’ is ready for sale.
Some balsamic vinegars have been aged for over 100 years which is what makes the very best Modena aceto balsamico so expensive!
Welcome to the Newsletter from Merrion Charles Private Travel Consultancy, providing the most recent and exciting information regarding hotels, villas and much more. Merrion provides a bespoke and professional service for holidays in Italy and further afield. Nothing is too much trouble.
As the number 1 expert for Italy, Merrion provides the very best concierge service available.
Exceptionally stunning properties for 2018
Breakwater, near Menaggio, Lake Como
Sleeps 16, private pool, boat & spa
Highly exclusive, state of the art design, location to die for, spacious and luxurious, tasteful and stylish – Breakwater will take your breath away
Casa Farfalla, near Lucca, Tuscany
Sleeps 10/12 , private pool, gym
Looking for a 007 house? Casa Farfalla could be your place! An architectural gem with roof opening like a butterfly, Casa Farfalla is an outstanding property in a phenomenal location above Lucca.
The Watermill, near Montalcino, Tuscany
Sleeps 8, indoor & outdoor pools
The elegance, the exquisite and tasteful style, the beauty and space of The Watermill is beyond belief. Totally private, immersed within the magnificent Val d’Orcia, with indoor and outdoor pools, The Watermill is exclusive to the Merrion Charles portfolio.
The Hermitage, Cinque Terre, Liguria
Sleeps 10, sea views, private pool
Just what so many clients have been asking for! Situated in the hills above Monterosso, The Hermitage is a true hideaway whilst being in the heart of the Unesco site of the Cinque Terre. With its luxurious but characterful accommodation, its stunning views to the sea and private pool, The Hermitage is a rare and special find.
Testimonial time for Merrion:
"We want to thank you for helping to organize our sublime two-week (not enough!) visit to Villa Tavernaccia a few months ago. The Villa is designed to the highest standards, location perfect (views of the Duomo from the pool!), staff extremely nice and accommodating, and as always, your attentiveness and availability, are so appreciated.
Our group of friends would return in a second and we know that they all were impressed by how well organized the visit was. Thanks for another lovely trip."
All best,
L & D, Toronto
Contact Merrion for the very best advice NOW for your magical luxury tailor made retreat to Italy – you will not be disappointed.
Nothing is too much trouble.
For more information please contact Merrion on:
Italy: +39 0585 92098,
on her mobile +39 392 155 1464
or via email: info@merrioncharles.com
