Umbria

Umbria, often referred to as the "Green Heart of Italy," is a central Italian region known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and deep rooted culinary traditions. Unlike its neighboring regions, Umbria is the only landlocked region in Italy, with no coastline or international borders. However, it more than compensates for this with its rolling hills, charming medieval towns, lush vineyards, and an agricultural bounty that shapes its world renowned cuisine and wines.

Beyond its natural beauty, Umbria is home to several historic and cultural landmarks. One of its most famous towns is Assisi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of St. Francis of Assisi, one of Italy’s most revered saints. The Basilica of Saint Francis, with its stunning frescoes by Giotto and Cimabue, is an architectural masterpiece and an important pilgrimage site. Another must visit town is Spoleto, famous for its impressive medieval and Renaissance architecture, including the Palazzo della Signoria, now a museum, and the Ponte delle Torri, an ancient Roman aqueduct and bridge offering breathtaking views.

For nature lovers, Umbria boasts one of Italy's most spectacular waterfalls, the Cascate delle Marmore, a man made marvel created by the ancient Romans. This is one of the tallest waterfalls in Italy and Europe, cascading down in three stunning tiers and offering a spectacular display of power and beauty.

Umbrian cuisine is rustic, simple, and deeply tied to the land. Due to its lack of coastline, the region’s gastronomy is centered around meats, legumes, grains, and earthy flavors, making it a paradise for those who appreciate traditional, farm to table cooking.

One of Umbria’s most famous delicacies is the black truffle. The region is Italy’s largest producer of this prized ingredient, and black truffles can be found in abundance, particularly around the towns of Norcia and Spoleto. These aromatic gems are used to elevate everything from pasta dishes, such as Strangozzi al Tartufo, to meats and even cheeses.

Umbria is also known for its cured meats, with Prosciutto di Norcia IGP being a standout. This prosciutto is dry cured in the mountainous areas of Norcia, giving it a distinctive flavor that pairs beautifully with local wines. Porchetta, a slow roasted, herb stuffed pork dish, is another regional specialty, often served in panini or as a main dish.

For those who enjoy hearty dishes, Lentils from Castelluccio di Norcia IGP are a must-try. These tiny, flavorful lentils are grown in the high plains of Castelluccio and are often used in soups and stews, particularly in winter. Fagiolina del Trasimeno, a small heirloom legume grown near Lake Trasimeno, is another local treasure.

Although Umbria is the fourth smallest wine producing region in Italy, it is home to some of the country’s most prestigious and well respected wines. The region's wine production may not be vast, but its quality is outstanding, offering a variety of whites and reds that pair beautifully with the region's rich cuisine.

White Wines:

- Orvieto DOC – Named after the Umbrian town of Orvieto, this is the region’s most famous and widely produced wine, accounting for about 10% of Umbria’s total wine output. It is typically made from a blend of Grechetto and Trebbiano Toscano, resulting in a crisp, floral, and slightly nutty wine that is perfect with fish, light pasta dishes, and truffle based meals.
- Grechetto – Another signature Umbrian white, Grechetto is known for its fresh acidity, rich texture, and notes of citrus and almonds. It is often blended with other white grapes but is increasingly being bottled as a single varietal wine.

Red Wines:

- Sagrantino di Montefalco DOCG – One of Italy’s most powerful and age worthy red wines, Sagrantino di Montefalco is made exclusively from Sagrantino grapes, an ancient and deeply tannic variety native to Umbria. This wine is known for its bold structure, deep ruby color, and intense flavors of blackberries, plums, spices, and earth. Aged for a minimum of 37 months, this DOCG wine pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats, game, and aged cheeses.
- Montefalco Rosso DOC – A more approachable red blend, Montefalco Rosso is made primarily with Sangiovese, blended with Sagrantino and other local varieties. It is a versatile and food-friendly wine that complements many of Umbria’s hearty dishes.

Umbria is also famous for its extra virgin olive oil, considered some of the finest in Italy. The region’s olive groves, particularly in the areas of Trevi and Spoleto, produce high quality DOP olive oils that are robust, peppery, and aromatic. These oils are a staple in Umbrian cuisine, drizzled over fresh bread, salads, and roasted meats.

Umbria is a region that captivates the senses - not just with its stunning landscapes and historic sites but with its rich culinary and wine culture. From the earthy flavors of black truffles and rustic meats to the bold elegance of Sagrantino di Montefalco and the refreshing crispness of Orvieto, Umbria’s food and wine are a true reflection of its land. Whether you’re indulging in a hearty dish of Strangozzi al Tartufo, sipping on a glass of Grechetto, or enjoying the region’s famous porchetta, Umbria offers a gastronomic experience that is as authentic as it is unforgettable.