SORTIE À l'ITALIENNE
LA PASSIONE SU QUATTRORUOTE

Sunday, the 20th of May 2007

by Bernardo Pisarzewski

No one can argue that Italy's contribution to our collective existence is immeasurable; be it in the world of art, music, cinema, literature or architecture. Who among us can debate the great achievements of Michelangelo, Da Vinci, Fellini, Dante, or Toscanini? Of course, we also shouldn't forget names such as Pininfarina, Bizzarini, Maserati, Lancia, and of course, Ferrari. Italy's mark in the automotive world is paramount. Granted that Italian cars may lack the Teutonic efficiency of their German counterparts, the distinguished class of their English brethren, or the characteristic charm of their French contemporaries; but the one thing that embodies the essence of an Italian car is: sex appeal. Some of the sexiest cars that grace our roads have come from the land of La Dolce Vita. Who can resist Pininfarina's curves? …or the gentle angular lines of Bertone …or the muscular contours of Ghandini or Giugiaro. …or even Zagato, with their customized (and at times controversial) forms.

On May 20th, the VEA held its annual "Sortie à l'Italienne". Organised by member Germain Coronet, this outing showcased some of the finest Italian cars in Southern Quebec. Almost every major manufacturer was represented: Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Ferrari and Lamborghini. Even a "not legal in North America" Alfa Rome Brera, belonging to the Italian Consul General was on hand.

The first stop of this cortège was the Trattoria Piatto, where the participants were treated to some fine Italian gastronomy. Its owners were gracious enough to open their establishment, which is usually closed on Sunday afternoons. Judging by the traffic (both auto and pedestrian) that came to a halt in order to admire the cars parked on the makeshift gravel front lawn, no one can debate the seductive charm of una bella Italiana.

Our second stop was in Rougemeont, more precisely the Michel Jodoin Cider House. Here, members and guests were enlightened to the fine art of cider fabrication. Once the brief (but comprehensive) tour was over, the staff of the cidrerie offered a sampling of their vintages.

Two more stops were on the itinerary: the Transport Robert Truck Museum and a visit of the installations of fellow member, and former team-Ferrari mechanic Salvatore Montana. Given that the afternoon was rapidly coming to a close and that some rather threatening clouds were looming, this reporter decided to forgo the two last stops and head back to Montreal.

For you see… the one thing that an Italian car does not like (especially a Ferrari)…. is rain.

Arrivederci!!

©VEA