The Tale of the 331st Chapter of the Tulips

There are traditions that do more than repeat a ritual—they renew, each time, a deep connection between different cultures. On Sunday, April 19, within the walls of the Castello di Grinzane Cavour, the 331st Chapter of the Tulips was celebrated—an occasion that over time has become a well-established and recognizable event, capable of bringing together institutional significance and a spirit of sharing. The protagonists of the day were the Knights of the Netherlands Delegation, who renewed the tradition of presenting white and red tulips, symbols of the city of Alba and a tangible sign of the bond between the two territories.

This was more than a floral tribute—it was a confirmation of how the language of wine and the land can transcend geographical boundaries. As emphasized by Grand Master Tomaso Zanoletti, today more than ever the Knights are called to act as ambassadors of the Langhe hills, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a treasure trove of excellence admired around the world.

“This Chapter has become a cherished tradition that we repeat every year, reminding us of the friendship that unites all our Delegations with one another and with us, expressed through the wonderful flowers that the Delegation presents to the Castello di Grinzane Cavour each year,” said Grand Master Tomaso Zanoletti. “To all the Knights, Italian and international, we extend our heartfelt thanks, our friendship and our pride: they are true Ambassadors of the Order’s values worldwide, committed to promoting our territory, the UNESCO-listed Langhe hills, the Castello di Grinzane Cavour and the food and wine excellence that makes this land unique.”

In this context, gastronomy is not merely a pleasure of the palate, but a means of mutual understanding. The Master of the Netherlands Delegation, Wouter Butzelaar, highlighted how the act of sharing a meal represents the most universal form of human connection: at the table, recipes tell the story of generations and the rhythm of the seasons, overcoming linguistic and cultural barriers.

“Today we celebrate not only a collaboration between our Delegation and the Langhe, but above all a friendship that goes beyond borders, languages and landscapes. Our friendship with Alba is a bridge between cultures, traditions and people. When other Delegations of our Order share their traditions, something truly special is created among the Knights: respect grows, curiosity grows, and often inspiration grows as well. One of the most beautiful ways in which cultures meet is through gastronomy. At the table, differences often fade naturally: sharing a meal is perhaps the most universal form of human connection. Dishes tell stories about a region, the rhythm of the seasons and the generations that have carefully preserved their recipes and traditions.”