Sampling The Diverse Tastes Of Tuscan Salumi

There are few areas as stunning in all of Italy than Chianti, with its rolling hillsides, rustic architecture, villas, farmhouses and woodland; here there is something that will captivate everyone. But how to see it best? Tuscany wine tours offer a glimpse of the region through the lens of perhaps its most famous output – wine! 

As well as getting an insight of the best Tuscany wine, tours of the region also allow visitors the chance to sample the eclectic and absolutely delicious range of Tuscan food. The standout of which is the magnificent salumi, a collective term for the distinct varieties of cured meats in the area. These are some of the best to pair with the delectable vino!

Pancetta

Made with the same cut of pork that is used for bacon, this sweet variety of meat gets its flavour without the use of sugar in the curing process. It is created using a great variety of spices, as well as plenty of pepper. You’re more likely to find this delicacy as an ingredient in other dishes, where its spectacular flavour really shines through.

Soppressata

This rich Tuscan sausage is a cooked meat made from some of the offcuts of pork joints, including bits of cartilage and other usually discarded pieces of the animal. It’s certainly not to everybody’s taste, but is absolutely worth trying if you get the chance.

Capocollo

This raw meat is sometimes labelled as coppa and is made from the shoulder of pork. It’s prepared with a brilliant blend of herbs and spices and is one of the standouts on any menu of cured meats.

Prosciutto

This famous cured ham is eaten all over the world and its Tuscan variety pairs harmoniously with the best Tuscany wine. Tours that let you sample this sweet and salty treat, which is noticeable for its red meat and brilliant white fat, are really delivering on the flavour front! 

Finocchiona

This unique and surprisingly delicious sausage is very much like the famous salami (below) but with one crucial difference: fennel! The distinctive taste and aroma of this vegetable are key characteristics of finocchiona, of which there are two varieties: firm and crumbly. 

Salami

Perhaps the most famous in the group, the large sausage of ground pork meat is eaten the world over. Characterised by its garlicy, spicy taste, this sausage needs no introduction. Eaten with cheese, on pizza or on its own, it’s a classic for a reason. 

The Trip of a Lifetime

Want to get the most out of your trip and be able to say that your Tuscan food and drink experience was the best? Tuscany wine tours with reputable companies are a great way to ensure your visit meets all of your expectations. Guides with reputable travel companies are able to offer expert guidance, insider knowledge and a passion for their subject. There is no better way to experience this amazing region.

The best Tuscany wine tours will involve something to suit everyone: history, tasting, great food, brilliant guiding, and they really can make a holiday something that you’ll never forget. It’s no wonder people keep returning to the Chianti region in Tuscany year after year!

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Mauro Bramante is the Director of WalkAbout Florence, an independent business offering some of the best Tuscany wine tours. Wherever and whatever you want to explore Mauro's company promises excitement, adventure and above all, fun. If you're keen to experience the magic of Italy with the help of some passionate and knowledgeable tour guides, look no further than WalkAbout Florence for your next getaway.