The Italian Cultural Institute in Sydney continues its culinary journey through the region of East Lombardy in celebration of the 8th Week of Italian cuisine in the World, with a unique Masterclass: "East Lombardy's Finest: Caviar & Franciacorta Tasting Event" at SIMON JOHNSON store in Alexandria - the largest importer of caviar in Australia - on Thursday, 16 November.

Perhaps unknown to many, East Lombardy, particularly the Brescia area, is the World's second-largest caviar producer, trailing only China and surpassing Russia. Caviar ambassador Lisa Downs will unveil these Northern Italian speciality through a carefully curated tasting of three caviar varieties. Her expertise will not only introduce the most authentic way to savour them, but will also delve into the fascinating history and origins of caviar, offering insights into the contemporary caviar market, with a special focus on sustainably sourced caviar.

The evening's experience will continue with award-winning sommelier Alice Massaria, who will lead guests on an immersive exploration of East Lombardy’s Franciacorta area - the heart of the renowned wines of the same name - through the tasting of three distinctive types of Franciacorta wines: Brut, Saten, and Rosé, making it a comprehensive and unforgettable sensory journey.

Lisa Downs, is national Caviar Ambassador at Simon Johnson. A chef by trade, with a background in restaurants and airlines and having represented Australian fishermen and seafood producers at the Sydney Fish Markets, Lisa brings a unique understanding of the world of caviar with nearly a decade of experience in this industry. Lisa also created the first caviar re-packing facility in Australia. Together with her team, tasked with showcasing and celebrating Simon Johnson’s unique range of caviar through their extensive expertise, ongoing education and close partnership with caviar farms, they are the pioneers of the caviar industry in Australia.

Alice Massaria is an award-winner sommelier born in Vicenza, Italy. She began her studies at the Italian Sommelier Association (AIS) then completed the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET) courses in Australia. In 2015 she was certified at the Court of Master Sommelier.

After working for over 15 years in the wine scene in some of the best establishments both abroad and in Australia as Head Sommelier and Wine Director, Alice founded Wine Concept, a company that focuses on private and corporate wine tastings in addition to consulting to develop wine lists for bars and restaurants.

Alice won several accolades throughout her career such as "best wine list of Australia” in 2019 for Bistecca Restaurant, “best digestive list” in 2021 for Bistecca, plus 3-glasses awards (the highest Australian recognition) each year for Bistecca, The Gidley and Uccello, just to name a few.