The Last Chance Winery was established in 2004 to create Nebraska wine with an 'old west' flair. Making wine in Nebraska is unlike anywhere else because of the types of grapes grown here in the heartland.

Food & Cheeze Pairing & Italian Cooking Seminar presented by Gisella Isidori from Italy.

A little bit of Italy visited Mullen from April 13- 19 2008 in the form of a petite, entertaining lady who not only cooked and served Italian food but entertained with the history of parts of Italy and the food and wines that came from a particular area and why.

Gisella Isidori from Orvieto, Italy was a guest of Donnie and Deb Cox’s’ at their home and then did some presentations at the Last Chance Winery Tasting room. She did one evening of pairing Nebraska wine with Italian and Nebraska cheeses and two evenings cooking and pairing Italian food with both Italian and Nebraska wine. About 50 people attended the three culinary events.

The guests were treated to the food, wine, and history and the recipes for the dishes that were served. They were also allowed to make and fill ravioli, which was quite a challenge but very tasty when finished. Gisella explained every dish as it was served and paired it with wine that complimented the food. The ones who attended the meal finished off the evening with three Italian desserts and laughed at the stories that went with one of them. She not only used Nebraska wine but also beef that was raised by local ranchers and praised it highly.

All those who attended enjoyed an evening of wonderful food, good conversation and the little bit of Italy that Gisella shared with them. She also seemed to enjoy the little bit of Nebraska that was shared with her. We hope she returns soon.

If you would like to learn more visit Gisella at her website, www.gisellaisidori.com, or if you view some pictures of the event.