Grapes … An Aphrodisiac?

I live in California where grapes are available all year round. Typically the grapes sold are either locally grown or from South America. I was inspired to eat locally grown food after reading 'Cuisine Economique' by Jacque Pepin. As a result of that, I buy only local grapes. I prefer red over green grapes and if seedless is an option, I would go for it too.  I learn to appreciate locally grown food where ever I go. 

I traveled for a week around Rome and Umbria Region. On my first night in Rome, I was offered complimentary grapes for dinner. When I bit into these grapes, the skin lightly pierced open creating a sound like when one bites into a crisp apple and the sweet juice just burst into my mouth. I enjoyed savoring the grapes: anticipating the light piercing sound of crisp apple and the sweet juice oozing from the grapes.  I felt I was eating a heavenly fruit of the roman gods. After that, I had grapes almost everyday during this trip.  

It is recommended in travel references to have gelato especially the ones that are certified as Gelaterie Artigianale. I did what was recommended and I had gelato almost everyday. While I enjoyed gelato, the food that etched most in my memory is their grapes. 

During dinner at the Bed & Breakfast: Casale San Bartolomeo, Gabriele served grapes for dessert and I declared aloud "Ah… grapes , the italian aphrodisiac!". Later that night, my boyfriend shared that he thought I was funny. I chalked it up to my new found experience with grapes and thanks to the wine for the courage to proclaim my appreciation for the lovely italian grapes.