When talking about food and wine in
Friuli Venezia Giulia special mention has to be made of San Daniele ham, famous and exported all
over the world. The slightly smoked ham of Sauris is also well known. Their
secret lies in the patient technique with which they are
prepared (passed down form generation to generation) and the
air of the places where they are seasoned, the charming
hills of S. Daniele and the Alpine valley of Sauris. Other
characteristic hams (with a more limited production) include
those of the Carso plateau and Cormons.
Cheeses are very tasty. Supreme among them is Montasio, whose authenticity is guaranteed by an
origin and quality label. Fresh and smoked ricotta as well
as mountain cheeses, with different degrees of seasonings,
are produced in Carnia, while the characteristic salty
cheese is produced in the Arzino, Cosa and Tramonti
valleys and Tabor on the Carso.
Among cold cuts, still produced by local butchers: salami, soppresse, sausages and musot (often accompanied by brovada). Locally produced
cakes include the gubana and strucoli of
the Natisone valleys.
Various spirits are renowned, first and foremost grappa (some top-quality single-grape ones), from the most
traditional to those flavored with herbs, berries and wild
fruit.
