Feel like terroir?
To learn more about the gastronomic and traditional products of the island of Elba, as well as the culinary events that punctuate the island's calendar and even the quality gourmet stops along the GTE(Grande Traversata dell'Elba), the Facebook page of "Elba Taste" deserves a visit. It is a consortium, created by a lover of the island, Valter Giuliani, which brings together about thirty producers of excellence and some of the most famous restaurateurs, in order to make known and promote the Elba land. You will even find traditional recipes of the island.
Wine side (vino)
A land of wine tradition since antiquity, Tuscany can be compared to the French Bordeaux region. Although it is difficult to compete with the noble Chianti or the prestigious Montepulciano, the island of Elba can boast of producing precious DOC wines, a controlled designation of origin obtained in 1967. This is the perfect opportunity to complete your cellar with an Elba rosso (red), an Elba bianco (white) or an Elba rosato (rosé).
Two other high quality white grape varieties are being developed: Ansonica, which currently covers about 20 hectares, and Vermentino, a variety also known in the south of France as "rolle".
And finally, the most famous: the Aleatico, of controlled appellation and guaranteed DOCG, the highest consecration of wines in Italy. This rare red grape variety, favored by Napoleon, is a rich and unique sweet wine with aromas similar to Muscat. A must! Rigorously selected and picked at maximum maturity, the grapes are spread out in the sun for six to ten days before being classically vinified. To shop and enjoy a tasting in a beautiful setting overlooking the Gulf of Portoferraio, Tenuta La Chiusa is a highly recommended place.
Notice to all olive oil (olio) lovers!
Simply exceptional, with an intense green color and low acidity. The island produces an excellent quality extra virgin olive oil, following the best Tuscan tradition. The salty air of Elba gives the olives a special flavor and fragrance.
A voluptuous and high quality oil can now boast of being the only one with the PGI label on the island, that of theAgriturismo Due Palme in Schiopparello, north of Acquabona. Once you taste it, you won't be able to live without it!
Cheese side (formaggio)
It is also difficult to compete with the many Tuscan specialties, such as the famous pecorino... But one address is worth remembering, in the hinterland of Lacona: that of Sara Esposito who, in her farm Azienda Agricola Regali Rurali, produces caccio matured from sheep's milk. A delicious cheese, handmade, and that should withstand the journey well. Unlike the fresh ricotta, another specialty of the farm, to be tasted quickly (this is good, we are already salivating!).
Another asset, honey (miele)
A sought-after flower nectar thanks to the impressive biodiversity present on the island. Elba honey is one of the richest in Tuscany. There is the inevitable thousand flowers (sweet and crystalline), chestnut honey (amber, tannic and very suitable for cooking), eucalyptus (creamy honey with hints of mint and caramel), but also rarer nectars, such as rosemary, thistle, heather, lavender and strawberry tree honey.
Crafts, fashion and perfume
In addition to locally produced gourmet souvenirs, you can also buy handicrafts (hand-painted ceramics, weaving, silversmithing, etc.). From cheap products to more sophisticated or luxurious gifts, there is also plenty to choose from! Fashionistas will love the very original handbags from Dampaì (stores in Porto Azzurro, Portoferraio and Marina di Campo), a brand created by an Elbo architect. Those who prefer the world of timepieces cannot miss the Locman boutique in Marina di Campo. This prestigious company, born on Elba in 1986, stands out not only for the quality of its watches, but also for the uniqueness of its collections. And finally, a must-have souvenir from Elba is a fresh and delicate perfume from Acqua dell'Elba (available in all major cities on the island). Granted, these limited edition perfumes are not cheap, but this Elba brand, one of the few to be exported internationally, is known for its unique fragrances, the quality of its raw materials, as well as for its rigorous craftsmanship. More than a perfume, the essence of an island!
