The Italians have a famous expression that is deeply ingrained within their lifestyle — dolce far niente. It means one should enjoy the sweetness of doing nothing.

Hmmm … that seems a conundrum for us, doesn’t it? We’ve got to keep busy or we aren’t…?

Maybe the better question for us is why do we need to keep busy. And here’s my answer to that question. The busyness of one’s life is self generated. I’ve learned we tend to be our own worse enemies, and we miss dolce far niente.

We were visiting a local vineyard with some of our family recently, and the vibes of the musician combined with the numerous people in attendance were very enjoyable. There were folks sipping their favorite delicious locally made wine, and there were families playing card games. Everyone seemed to be enjoying the sweetness of doing nothing.

Many of us are lovers of the Italian style of life. The Italians take time eating, relaxing with their wines, and interacting at their pace. The craziness of work, family expectations are gently set aside. They find sweetness in having a quiet conversation or by simply taking a walk.

Gee, as long as I’m on the subject of Italy, how about suggesting some delicious Italian wines?

I’ve often wondered why we remember certain events in our lives. For instance, a number of years ago, I visited Rome with a special someone. Yes, we toured Saint Peter’s Square, St. Peter’s Basilica and the Colosseum, but the one moment that is always with me is this one.

We were walking the city’s streets, and it was time for lunch. It was agreed to have a bite at a sidewalk cafe, and we sat outside on the sidewalk. We ordered a pizza (When in Rome, right?), and a glass of Chianti. Seriously, I don’t recall the type of pizza we had, but the Chianti was perfect. Sitting there that day, I like to think I got a bit of the sense of dolce far niente.

Italian wines are classic. I’m especially partial to Tuscan wines, and Banfi Brunello di Montalcino is excellent. It’s made with Sangiovese grapes which gives the wine its full bodied tastes of berries, spice and anise. It’s perfect for an evening of doing nothing.

Of course, one can’t discuss Italian wines without mentioning Pinot Grigio. An extremely reasonably priced one is Armani Pinot Grigio Venezie. It’s a wonderful wine from the Venice area, and gives nice crisp flavors of apple and pears with a creamy side note.

As you sit outside viewing the bluffs, the river or the prairie, pour a glass of it. Take a deep breath and enjoy the moment of doing nothing.

There comes an end to everything. I don’t think we celebrate or give thanks enough for getting to the end of a day. Let me give you a challenge.

Get yourself a bottle of Lamarca Prosecco. Savor the moment the cork pops out of the bottle, watch the bubbles, and enjoy a glass of it. Immerse yourself in the wine’s citrus flavors. Do nothing but live in the moment.

Dolce far niente!

As always, eat and drink in moderation but laugh with reckless abandon!

Cheers!