Issue link: http://winesandvines.uberflip.com/i/235941
WINEMAKING Visit Milan during the SIMEI show O ne reason more North American winemakers should attend the SIMEI-Enovitis show and conference is its proximity to Milan. Before or after walking the vast trade show and seeing winery technology innovations that haven't yet arrived in the United States, visitors can easily tour Italy's second-largest city, which is known for leadership in finance, fashion and design. After arriving at the Malpensa (MXP) airport, a taxi to central Milan costs a flat fee of 90 euros, but trains to the central stations cost only about 10 euros one way. An airport shuttle bus also costs around 10 euros but can get stuck in freeway traffic headed downtown. While lodging in Milan's center, SIMEI attendees can hop on the city's subway for a 2.55-euro ride to the exposition halls at Fiera Milano. The fair's metro station, the last stop on the north branch of the red line, provides easy access to downtown Milan as well as most of the city's main tourist sites. Ticket machines with English instructions and easy-to-understand signage make traveling on the metro a simple and efficient option. Everyone could likely use a break after five days on the trade show floor. Among the best sites to visit is the Duomo, Milan's main cathedral. Built between 1386 and 1813, it's one of the largest cathedrals in the world. Be sure to take the elevator to the roof for an expansive view of central Milan. Another must-see attraction is the Castello Sforzesco, which served as the residence of Milan's rulers through the centuries as well as military 88 W in es & V i ne s january 20 14 bases for the city's various foreign occupiers. During the 15th century, Leonardo de Vinci painted frescos in the castle. Today the castle houses several art museums. The Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio is also well worth visiting. Construction of the basilica began in 1379, but the church's history dates back even further: to the 1080s. It is one of Milan's oldest and most favored places of worship. For eating in Milan, a good rule of thumb is to check if a restaurant is open for dinner before 7 p.m. If it is, it's probably not so good. Two strong recommendations: Mama Rosa (at Piazza Cincinnato 4 on Via San Gregorio) and Da Giacomo (at Via Sottocorno 6 Angolo via Benvenuto Cellini). Have your concierge make reservations a day or more in advance and, if suitably impressed, make another reservation for a second night before leaving the restaurant. Both Florence and Venice are just a couple of hours by train from Milan. When in Venice, a side trip north about 45 minutes to Vittorio Veneto will get you into the heart of the Prosecco-producing wine country. A final tip: Don't forget to check your passport's expiration date prior to leaving the United States. A flood of refugees has prompted Italian authorities to strictly enforce the law that does not allow entry if your passport expires within 90 days of your arrival. SIMEI is expected to return to the Fiera Milano during the last week of November 2015. — Dave Bayard, Wines & Vines international sales manager See us at Unified booth #1419