Page 124 - WINE DINE AND TRAVEL FALL 2021 DISCOVERING SANTA FE

The couple reached out to Cristian Pontiggia, a their local son’s success. Chef Pontiggia was
chef they had known and admired “for his drive, named 2021Chef of the Year by the New Mexico
his personality, and skills in the kitchen,” Lawrence chapter of the American Culinary Federation. The
recalled. Pontiggia agreed to become a partner in award entitles him to compete for the federation’s
the new Italian restaurant that he suggested U.S.A. Chef of the Year. “Cristian is extraordinarily
Sasella. He had grown up near the wine-making good at what he does,” said Lawrence.
village, where he and his father enjoyed tasting Suzanna put her design skills to work to trans-
the fine wines crafted there from Nebbiolo grapes. form indoor and outdoor spaces to reflect the cui-
Residents of Sassella would be most proud of sine and a favorite destination in Italy - Venice.

124 WINE DINE & TRAVEL MAGAZINE FALL 2021