Flavours of Gubbio: Tastings of Salami Black Pork Brado

This tour offers a delicious journey into Italy’s culinary heart, focusing on the savory delights of homemade cold cuts and artisan salami produced with traditional methods. Set just outside Gubbio, the experience at Villa Contessa combines tasting, storytelling, and a glimpse into local farming practices—all in about two hours.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it balances delicious food with educational insights, guided by passionate locals who genuinely care about sharing their craft. The chance to sample wild black pork cold cuts, learn about their preparation, and see the farm animals living freely in the countryside supplies a well-rounded, authentic taste of Umbrian life.

A potential consideration is the limited duration—two hours might feel brief for those wanting an extensive food tour or in-depth farm visit. However, this makes it a perfect, manageable stop if you’re short on time but still craving a real local experience.

This tour is ideal for foodies, cultural travelers, and anyone interested in genuinely local flavors and traditional Italian craftsmanship. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a small-group, convivial atmosphere and the opportunity to purchase high-quality products directly from the producer.

Key Points

• Authentic Taste: Experience homemade cold cuts made from wild black pork following traditional recipes.
• Guided Experience: Carlo and his team provide detailed explanations of each step, making it both educational and flavorful.
• Farm Visit: Optional live viewing of animals in a free-grazing estate adds a genuine farm-to-table element.
• Quality Products: You’ll have the chance to purchase the farm’s natural, preservative-free products directly.
• Beautiful Setting: Located in the scenic hills around Gubbio, the farm offers a rustic, welcoming atmosphere.
• Value for Money: At around $36, this intimate tasting offers a rich taste of local tradition without breaking the bank.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Setting

The tour begins at Villa Contessa in the charming area of S. Bartolomeo di Burano, just outside Gubbio. The venue’s rural location sets the tone—think rolling hills, fresh air, and a tranquil atmosphere. The farm itself functions as a living testament to traditional practices, where animals roam freely and are treated with respect.

The Guided Tasting with Carlo and Olivero

From the moment you arrive, you’ll be welcomed by Carlo, the passionate guide and one of the founders of Villa Contessa, along with his team including Olivero, who’s described as “nice and unique” by visitors. Carlo’s storytelling and detailed explanations elevate the tasting from simple sampling to a genuine education about local culinary techniques.

Expect to learn about the craftsmanship behind the cold cuts, focusing on wild black pork, a breed renowned for its quality and flavor. Carlo will walk you through each process—from selecting the meat, mixing with traditional herbs, to the curing and aging methods—highlighting how these steps preserve the authentic flavors of the region.

The Tasting Experience

During the approximately two-hour session, you’ll sample a variety of homemade cold cuts. These are carefully prepared without preservatives, emphasizing natural flavors. The tasting includes:

• Salami Dolce Umbro: A sweet, mildly seasoned salami that balances richness with subtle sweetness.
• Preservative-Free Artisanal Salami: A showcase of how traditional methods produce cleaner, more vibrant flavors.
• Crescia di Gubbio: A local bread or flatbread that complements the meats.
• Wine and Cheese: Local wines accompany the tasting, enhancing the flavors and providing a complete gastronomic experience.

Many visitors note that the quality of the products is exceptional, and prices are reasonable given the craftsmanship involved. The fact that you may purchase products directly from the farm means you’re getting authentic, high-quality goods, perfect for bringing a piece of Italy home.

Farm Tour and Animal Views

On request, Carlo can show you the farm animals, offering insight into the free-grazing lifestyle of the pigs and other creatures. Several reviews mention how meaningful it is to see the animals living naturally—this adds a layer of transparency and respect for sustainable farming practices.

Additional Benefits

• Small group size (up to 40 travelers) ensures a personalized experience.
• Mobile ticket makes booking and attending straightforward.
• The tour operates Monday through Saturday, from 12:30 PM to 9:30 PM, providing flexibility for most schedules.
• The free cancellation policy offers peace of mind, allowing you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The Value of This Tour

At just over $36 per person, this experience delivers significant value. You’re not just sampling food—you’re gaining insights into the traditional methods, understanding the importance of local breeds, and supporting small-scale producers committed to quality. For foodies, this is a chance to taste genuine Umbrian flavors that are hard to find elsewhere.

While it’s a shorter experience, it’s packed with educational content and tastings that make it worth every euro. If you’re seeking a relaxed, authentic, and delicious activity that combines gastronomy and farm life, this tour hits the mark.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour suits food lovers who want to get up close with traditional Italian cured meats, especially those interested in sustainable farming and artisan crafts. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate small-group experiences and enjoy learning about how their food is made.

It also works well for families (with children comfortable around farm animals) or couples seeking a cozy, memorable outing. If you’re keen on local wines and authentic regional products, this visit offers plenty of opportunities to indulge.

However, if you prefer a long, comprehensive food tour or a full farm experience, this two-hour tasting might seem brief. Still, it provides a high-quality taste of Umbrian gastronomy without overextending your schedule.

FAQs

• How long does the tour last?
  Approximate duration is 2 hours, including tastings and explanations.

• Where does the tour start?
  The meeting point is Villa Contessa in Frazione S. Bartolomeo di Burano, near Gubbio.

• What is included in the experience?
  Tastings of homemade cold cuts, local wine, cheese, and Crescia di Gubbio. You can also purchase products afterward.

• Can I see the farm animals?
  Yes, farm visits are available upon request, allowing you to see the animals in a free-grazing environment.

• Is this suitable for children?
  Most travelers can participate, and children who are comfortable around farm animals will enjoy the experience.

• What is the price?
  The tour costs about $36.12 per person, offering good value for the quality and insights provided.

• How do I book?
  Booking can be made online, with mobile tickets available for convenience.

• Are there any dietary restrictions?
  This information isn’t specified; it’s best to contact Villa Contessa directly if you have special needs.

• What is the cancellation policy?
  Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

• What is the typical group size?
  Up to 40 travelers, ensuring a relatively intimate atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

The Flavours of Gubbio tour at Villa Contessa offers more than just a tasting—it’s an authentic dive into Umbrian culinary traditions. From learning about the meticulous craft of making wild black pork salami to enjoying the genuine hospitality of Carlo and his team, you’ll leave with both a fuller belly and a deeper appreciation for local food culture.

This experience is best suited for those who value quality over quantity, enjoy small-group interactions, and want to support traditional, sustainable farming practices. With its combination of delicious food, educational insights, and beautiful countryside scenery, it’s a memorable way to connect with Italy’s rich gastronomic heritage.

If you’re in Gubbio or nearby and craving a real taste of Italy, this tour offers a genuine, satisfying bite into the region’s culinary soul.