Abruzzo

Nestled in the heart of Italy, Abruzzo stands as an undiscovered paradise, beckoning travellers with its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and culinary delights that tantalize the senses year-round. Despite its abundance of natural treasures, from lush national parks to sun kissed Adriatic beaches and rugged Apennine peaks, Abruzzo remains a well-kept secret, quietly awaiting exploration just a stone's throw away from Rome.

Abruzzo's allure lies not only in its stunning scenery but also in its vibrant culinary scene, which reflects the region's unique blend of influences shaped by its varied terrain. From the mountains to the sea, Abruzzo offers a tapestry of flavours and traditional dishes that capture the essence of its land and sea.

Among the culinary gems of Abruzzo is Pasta alla Chitarra, a delicacy crafted from scratch using a special tool reminiscent of a guitar, resulting in perfectly textured strands of pasta that pair impeccably with a variety of sauces. For a taste of tradition, indulge in the iconic "arrosticini," tender skewers of succulent sheep's meat expertly grilled over open flames, a staple of Abruzzese cuisine particularly beloved during the summer months.

Venture further inland, and you'll discover the province of Chieti, renowned for its fiery Ventricina, a spicy cured meat made from locally reared pork—a true delight for lovers of bold flavours. Meanwhile, along the picturesque coastline, feast on the delectable "brodetto di pesce," a fragrant fish stew brimming with the day's catch, simmered in a Savory tomato broth that sings of the sea.

Abruzzo is also famous for its olive oil. The olive trees of Abruzzo thrive in the region's favorable climate, where warm Mediterranean sunshine and cool mountain breezes create the perfect conditions for optimal olive cultivation and its diverse terroir imparts a unique character to its olive oils, with each variety reflecting the nuances of its specific microclimate and soil composition. In Abruzzo, olive oil production is steeped in tradition.

No culinary journey through Abruzzo would be complete without a toast to its exceptional wines. Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, a robust red wine crafted from the region's signature Montepulciano grapes, stands as a testament to Abruzzo's vinicultural prowess. Accompanying it is Trebbiano d'Abruzzo, a crisp white wine boasting refreshing citrus notes—a perfect complement to the region's seafood delights.

Yet, Abruzzo's wine culture extends beyond its famed varietals, with hidden gems like Cerasuolo d'Abruzzo—a delightful rosé with hints of cherry and spice—and indigenous grapes like Passerina and Pecorino, adding depth and complexity to the region's vinicultural landscape.

To truly immerse yourself in Abruzzo's culinary heritage, savor the "sciampagnino," a refreshing wine-based cocktail that captures the essence of the region's joie de vivre. Paired with artisanal bread and a generous serving of Ventricina, it offers a taste of Abruzzo's warm hospitality and convivial spirit.

And when it comes to dining out, Abruzzo boasts a plethora of exceptional restaurants and pizzerias, each offering a unique culinary experience that celebrates the region's culinary traditions and showcases the bounty of its land and sea.

In Abruzzo, every meal is a celebration of tradition, a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage, and an invitation to savour the simple pleasures of life amidst breathtaking landscapes and warm hospitality.