SCENTS OF ABRUZZO

Unearth Abruzzo’s tastiest secrets on this full-day excursion to the countryside. Gourmands will join in an exciting treasure hunt, courtesy of Mother Nature. They will also discover that she has a hand in the unparalleled success of Montepulciano and Trebbiano grapes in this region, a land blessed with a unique and felicitous combination of geological and climatic factors.

Meet your private guide and driver at your accommodation and relax on the ride to the starting point of the activity. Here, accompanied by your guide and a truffle seeker, you will live a truly local gastronomic experience as you nose your way between the trees. It is actually a dog who will lead you on the trail, as he follows the precious scent through the tartufaia digging out aromatic treasures. With guidance from your truffle seeker, you will identify different plant species, understand the ideal habitat for truffle growth and find out how dogs are trained to detect these woodland treats.

Truffles are one of the world’s most expensive, sought-after delicacies. They are the fruiting bodies of subterranean fungi that rely on a symbiotic relationship with trees. Nature has chosen to bestow these rare gifts, harvested since ancient times by the Romans, in particular abundance on the unspoiled green hills of Abruzzo. Indeed, you may not know that over 40% of Italy’s truffles comes from this region. A favourable climate, dense vegetation and fertile soil rich in mineral salts, all contribute to the growth of prime quality truffles.

A delicious lunch washed down with Montepulciano d’Abruzzo wine will be served at a restaurant in the charming town of Campli. Highlights might include cheese, egg on prosciutto, tagliatelle pasta with porcini mushrooms, all seasoned with a sprinkle of freshly hunted truffles… Buon appetito!

After lunch rejoin your driver and reach a leading estate, well-known for its fine red and white DOC and DOCG designated wines. Established in the early 1970s, the winery is now run by the founder’s son and daughter. The rediscovery of regional flavours, scents and of an Abruzzese identity, together with promoting local wines are at the core of the estate’s mission. Balancing tradition, research and innovation and reducing environmental impact are also among the guiding principles of the winery. Thirty-eight hectares of vineyards, planted with the local Montepulciano and Trebbiano grape varieties, spread out over the gently rolling Teramane hills, at a height of three hundred metres above sea level. In the background the majestic peaks of the Gran Sasso massif frame this splendid landscape while just ten kilometres away the Adriatic Sea guarantees optimal ventilation. A blend of calcareous and limestone soil, plentiful sunlight, a perfect range of temperatures and a salty sea breeze create the ideal conditions for the production of exquisite wines. Top off your day with a tasting and a toast… cheers to Abruzzo!

Your private chauffeur will drive you back to your accommodation in the afternoon.