In the Valle Sauglio area between Pecetto and Trofarello, the Piovano family has been running this thriving farm for more than a century. Surrounded by cherry and black cherry trees, it was converted to organic agriculture more than 20 years ago by Giuseppe Piovano, an agronomist and heirloom seed saver. The variety of local produce is vast and in recent years has been supplemented by vegetables whose production has been facilitated by the changing climate. They include different-coloured carrots, striped and yellow tomatoes, triangular mountain peppers and sweet smooth melons. Two crops that have been introduced recently are the Ketty mini-watermelons and the spineless purple Romolo artichoke. The predicts in jars are the handiwork of Giuseppe’s wife Francesca, who alternates seasonal recipes: confit cherry tomatoes and carrots, excellent marinaded onions and artichoke preserved in oil. Among the other specialties are the extra preserves, among which an absolute must, mulberry with chamomile, and new flavours such as apricot, apricot, orange and lavender, and strawberry and peppermint. The range is rounded off by cartons of steamed vegetables, soups and edible flowers for those with little time to spare. The shop is open on Tuesday afternoons and all produce is also on sale at Coldiretti markets (see the website).
***
