Summer lights up with the authentic flavors of the region, combining Etruscan tradition with contemporary mixology: this tasting itinerary is curated by Umbria Top, the cooperative of Umbrian wineries.
Umbria confirms its role as a key player in the Italian summer with a fresh, innovative, and exciting wine selection.
Umbria Top , the cooperative of Umbrian wineries, presents a journey through the region’s most authentic flavors, where winemaking tradition meets the creativity of mixology. From elegant rosés to Umbrian vermouths to surprising wine-only cocktails —without the addition of spirits—Italy’s green heart is preparing to toast in style.
Umbrian rosé wines are a refined expression of the terroir, thanks to select grapes that bring freshness and delicacy to the palate. They are distinguished by a fruity and lively character, perfect for accompanying summer dishes and convivial moments. The combination of the temperate climate and mineral-rich soils gives these rosés a harmonious balance and elegant aromas. They are versatile wines, ideal for those seeking lightness without sacrificing aromatic complexity.
Vermouth production is also receiving significant attention: companies like Antonelli, Briziarelli, and Raina are reinterpreting this ancient flavored beverage with a regional twist. Umbrian vermouths are made with local wine and wild botanicals, ideal for enjoying on their own or as a base for natural and sophisticated cocktails. Other local companies are also developing projects dedicated to vermouth production, a sign of growing interest in this winemaking excellence reinterpreted with a local twist.
At the heart of Umbria’s summer offerings is a desire to innovate through wine: not just to be tasted, but also to be experienced as the main ingredient in light, aromatic, and sustainable cocktails. Far from traditional high-proof drinks, these cocktails are designed to showcase Umbria’s native grape varieties , pairing them with spices, fruit, and Mediterranean aromas.
Among the most representative cocktails:
Apple & Pink Julep – 100g of rosé (like Dievole Rosato, its inspiration), apple juice, and fresh mint. A balanced and refreshing blend, perfect for an aperitif.
Vino Tonic – Dry white wine such as Grechetto and tonic water in equal parts, served with ice, lime, and rosemary. A refreshing and light Umbrian alternative to gin and tonic.
Umbrian White Wine Spritz – With a touch of elderflower, soda, and lemon, this cocktail exudes all the freshness of summer.
Frosé – A rosé made from Sangiovese chilled and blended with fresh strawberries, citrus fruits, and a teaspoon of sugar. A perfect alcoholic sorbet for warmer evenings.
Citrus Sangria – Rosso Divertimento IGT 2012 with grapefruit and lemon juice, sugar, and basil leaves. A Mediterranean twist on traditional sangria, all Umbrian.
Umbrian White Wine Mimosa – Sparkling Wine or Prosecco with Orange Juice: A light summer brunch in a single glass.
The inspiration also comes from afar: at Etruscan banquets, wine was enriched with water, honey, and spices, conceptually anticipating mixology itself. This philosophy is reflected in cocktails like the Umbrian Bellini (wine and peach juice) or citrusy reinterpretations with basil and lemon zest.
Umbria thus presents itself as a laboratory for wine and mixology experimentation , where wine becomes a vehicle for creativity, culture, and conviviality. A proposal that combines sustainability, moderation, and flavor, bringing a new way of drinking to Italian summer tables.
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UmbriaTop’s initiatives are part of the initiatives to promote certified Umbrian products promoted by the UmbriaTop Wines Cooperative as part of the CSR Umbria 2023-2027 measure – intervention SRG10 “Promotion of quality products”.