Ep 13. From Wine to Chocolate

Lidia's Italy season 3 episode 13, titled "From Wine to Chocolate," takes viewers on a journey through the stunning region of Umbria. Hosted by renowned chef and cookbook author Lidia Bastianich, this episode explores the rich culinary traditions of the region, from fine wines to delectable chocolates.

The episode begins with Lidia visiting a small, family-run winery in the heart of Umbria. Here, viewers are treated to an inside look at the winemaking process, from harvesting and pressing the grapes to aging the wine in oak barrels. Along the way, Lidia also learns about the different types of grapes grown in the region and the unique characteristics of Umbrian wines.

From there, Lidia turns her attention to the sweet side of Umbrian cuisine, paying a visit to a local chocolate maker. Viewers are taken behind the scenes to see the entire chocolate-making process, from roasting and grinding the cocoa beans to molding and packaging the finished product. Along the way, Lidia also learns about the different types of chocolates made in Umbria, including dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and even white chocolate.

Throughout the episode, Lidia also highlights other culinary treasures of Umbria, such as truffles, wild mushrooms, and cured meats. She visits a local truffle hunter and his dog to see how they search for the elusive and prized truffles that grow abundantly in the region. She also meets with a local mushroom forager and learns about the many ways mushrooms are used in Umbrian cuisine, from soups and sauces to pasta dishes and more.

In addition to highlighting the food and wine of Umbria, Lidia also showcases the region's stunning scenery and rich cultural heritage. She takes viewers on a tour of the historic city of Perugia, where they explore ancient ruins, centuries-old churches, and winding cobblestone streets. She also meets with local artisans and craftsmen, including a wood carver and a ceramicist, to learn about the traditional crafts that have been passed down through generations in Umbria.

Throughout the episode, Lidia's enthusiasm and passion for Italian cuisine is evident, as she shares her love of the region and its delicious flavors with viewers. Her warm and engaging personality, combined with breathtaking scenery and mouthwatering food, make this episode a must-watch for anyone interested in the culinary delights of Umbria.