Italy's central region, Umbria is well-known for its Sagrantino wines, which are mainly made from the local Sagrantino grapes that have a very high tannic level. A
mong the blends, Sagrantino di Montefalco DOCG is made from 100 percent Sagrantino grapes, which are grown only in the local Montefalco town and its immediate surroundings. The dry secco type goes well with cheeses and cured meats while the sweet passito type is a good dessert wine.
If you adore white wine, you should sample Orvieto Classico, which is primarily made from Trebbiano grapes and other grape varieties. To sample various blends of white and red wines including Sagrantino di Montefalco DOCG, make a trip to the huge winery in the hilly town of Torgiano.
In addition to wines, Umbria is also famous for its various cheeses, cured meats, sausages, truffles and olives especially its extra virgin olive oil. A visit to Norcia, a hill town, is a must if you wish to sample a variety of delicious sausages and cheeses. To sample a typical Umbrian dish, strangozzi, a pasta dish that is normally served with a choice of spicy tomato sauce or black truffles, typical in Spoleto.
For a taste of rustic and simple mountain fare that includes grilled meats, salamis, lentils, mushrooms and truffles, visit Norcia. Those wanting to sample Umbrian classic dishes should visit the ancient town of Assisi. Here, you can enjoy sumptuous dishes like stringhozzi alla Pallotta, coniglio alla cacciatore and piccione alla ghiotta, which is made from pigeon meat at the quaint Pallotta restaurant.