This Pecorino "Diavoletta" or "Little Devil" is a delicious young pecorino cheese with hot Sicilian red chillies. 

It is made by artisan cheese masters, the Petrucci brothers from quality milk from Ewe's grazing on the amazing and lush slopes of Mount Terminillo in North Lazio-Umbria border. The cheese is aged for just 40 days in caves where it acquires its semi-soft texture and addictive mild creamy flavours. The addition of red chillies add an unforgettable finish with a subtle crescendo of warmth creating a wonderful contrast with the creamy nature of the pecorino.

The Diavoletta makes a great appetiser diced with salami and vegetables and is a true classic to round off a meal, on its own with a glass of full-bodied red, with honey or pears or chutneys.

Produced by the Fratelli Petrucci, award winning artisan cheesemakers from the mountain areas between Lazio and Umbria.

Please note: this artisan cheese is hand made and weights may vary slightly.

Produced by maestro Daniele Slitti at his roasting company in Tuscany. The 100% Pure Arabica is a gourmet blend of 7 Arabica coffees selected from the best plantations around the world including Brasil, Guatemala, Ethiopia, Salvador and Nicaragua.

It is specially ground to make world-class espresso and cappuccino in the comfort of your own home. Deliciously rich, dark and smooth, it has a full yet perfectly balanced and rounded flavour with an underlying sweetness common to the best Arabicas. You'll also delight in its long satisfying after-taste which doesn't lose any of its depth. A coffee for connoisseurs, available to everyone!

Experts agree this is Sangiovese expression at its best. Expert hands, perfect location in the soft rolling hills of Chianti means this Chianti Classico Riserva will satisfy even the most demanding tastes. 15 days in stainless steel then a second fermentation in cement tanks before maturing for 2 years in oak casks. A further 6 months resting in the bottle to produce a refined and elegant red wine, full of structure and character. A true world-beater. Ideal for stronger flavoured first courses, game, aged cheeses and more exotic dishes.

Type: Red

Producer: Azienda Agricola Losi

Zone: Castelnuovo Berardenga, Siena, Tuscany, Italy

Grape: 90% Sangiovese and 10% Tuscan Canaiolo

Year: 2006

Alc Vol: 13.2%

Ageing: Drinking now. If stored correctly will keep for many years.

Storage: Store lying down

Tasting Notes

Colour: Ruby red, with tendency to carnet

Bouquet: Robust, but very refined with balsamic sensations and hints of fruit and vanilla.

Taste: Charming, soft and elegant dry with hints of wood and a lovely undertone of ripe fruit which is peculiar to the Castelnuovo Berardenga area.

Serving notes: Serve at 21C. Open bottle an hour prior to serving or decant.

The grapes ferment in stainless steel tanks where the wine remains for 12 months. To develop its red bouquet, the "Cavaliere" has a further rest in the bottle for 1 month to produce a young wine with an exciting character. It is very drinkable and well worth getting to know. Goes well with antipasti, starters, red and white meat, grilled fish and young cheeses

Type: Red

Producer: Azienda Agricola Losi

Zone: Castelnuovo Berardenga, Siena, Tuscany, Italy

Grape: 80% Sangiovese and Canaiolo Toscano, 15% Malvasia and 5% Trebbiano

Year: 2009

Alc Vol: 12.5%

Ageing: Drinking now. Drink within 2 to 3 years.

Storage: Store standing

Tasting Notes

Colour: Bright ruby red, with tendency to violet.

Bouquet: Fruity, with hints of cherry and redcurrant, spicy.

Taste: Well developed, with balanced and round tannins and well balanced acidity.

Serving notes: Serve at 21C. 

Size: 750ml

A lovely, refreshing dry white wine from the Querciavalle Vineyards near Siena in Tuscany. It has a fragrant, elegant and floral bouquet with defined long-lasting fresh fruit flavour of apples and pears.

It also has a remarkable freshness and softness on the palate. It is exciting enough to drink as an aperitif wine on its own or with starters and refined enough to accompany rice, pasta, shell fish, white meat and fresh cheeses.

Colour: Bright straw yellow with golden reflections

Bouquet: Fragrant, elegant, fruity

The Vigna Bordò or Bordeaux Vine is the younger of the 3 siblings (along with the Silver and Gold Vines) in this fine range of aged balsamic vinegars by Compagnia del Montale, Modena.

Using the sweetest, ripest Trebbiano grapes from the Modena area and following the classic artisan ageing methods in small wooden barrels, the bronze label is an extremely versatile balsamic vinegar. Complex enough to accompany and enhance marinades and sauces with its appetizing aroma, yet delicate and with perfect balanced acidity for salads and dressings. Great with vegetables too.

Comes in a beautiful presentation box - a great gift for friends or family.

Contains no colourants, thickeners, flavourings or preservatives. Will keep for years.

From: Modena, Emilia Romagna, Italy

Learn all about Balsamic Vinegars in our informative guide

An exceptional and uniquely flavoured aged balsamic vinegar that can naturally refine and enhance the flavours of any cuisine. The Vigna D'oro or Golden vine uses the sweetest trebbiano grapes from the Modena area and is aged for a minimum* of 6 years in small wooden casks.

Both beautiful in design and simplistic in nature, this balsamic vinegar has a creative and exciting taste with a seductive and alluring aroma. The beautiful presentation box makes a great gift for friends or family.

Excellent particularly with medium and aged cheeses, exotic and spicy dishes, sweet and sour and Asian cuisine.

Contains no colourants, flavourings or preservatives. Will keep for years.

Produced by Compagnia del Montale, Modena

Learn all about the wonderful world of Balsamic Vinegar here

The Superior Taste Awards - 3 Star Winner.

As testimony to the quality of the Golden Vine and the Compagnia del Montale range of balsamic vinegars, it has just won the highest accolade at the prestigious Superior Taste Awards 2012 held in Brussels.

The awards are organised by the International Taste & Quality Institute and are considered as the Michelin Guide for quality foods. The jury is selected from the cream of European chefs and Sommeliers who judge each product on its own merit.

The Vigna D'Oro was one of the very few outstanding products to win 3 stars, the highest possible.

3 Stars - for exceptional products with a score of over 90%

2 Stars - for excellent products with a score from 80 - 90%

1 Star - for noteable products with a score from 70 - 80%

This is an authentic, aged balsamic vinegar from the Acetaia of Compagnia del Montale in Modena. In terms of aging, the Vigna d'Argento or Silver Vine is a blend of vinegars aged for a minimum of 4 years and sits between the Bronze and Gold Vines within this wonderful range.

Made from only the finest, ripest Trebbiano grapes from Modena, it is then aged in wooden casks of different woods. The Silver Vine is an outstanding and versatile balsamic which does wonders to salads but can also be used for marinades on vegetable and grilled meats.

Contains no colourants, denseners, flavourings or preservatives. Will keep for years.

From Modena

Learn all about the wonderful world of Balsamic Vinegar Here

This superb authentic aged balsamic vinegar sits in the middle of a set of 3, the yellow, the orange and the red labels from the Borgo del Balsamico. Each has its own unique character through aging. The orange is aged for a minimum of 4 years*.

Produced with the same loving care as the much more expensive traditional DOP balsamic vinegars, the orange label is a highly versatile aged balsamic condiment that combines perfectly with red meats, cold dishes, vegetables and risottos. Its subtle and mellow flavours produce a refined and delicate taste with the lovely flavours conferred by the wooden barrels during aging.

Contains no colourants, thickening agents, flavourings or preservatives - only 100% pure grape must.

Also available in 250ml with beautiful gift box.

There is a lot of confusion surrounding Balsamic Vinegars. Read our article for all you need to know

*Sellers will often make claims about aging. E.g. "aged for 8 years". This is often a blend of very young vinegars with a little 8 year old in. Always check the minimum age!

A traditional Tuscan delight. Brutti e Buoni means "ugly and nice", so-called because they are hand made and deliberately not formed into any particular shape (brutti) but are absolutely delicious (buoni). They are small soft cakes featuring the zest of Sicilian candied oranges and a very high content of lovely almonds, a fabulous combination! Perfect at any time with a cuppa or after dinner with a dessert wine.

They are made by artisan experts, Biscottificio Belli in Tuscany who have been producing biscuits and pastries since 1958 and still today strictly adhere to the traditional family recipes of Tuscan pastry preparation.

They come in a lovely bag and make a delightful treat for anyone.

Delicious and crunchy almond Baci di Dama (ladies kisses) biscuits in a beautiful gift bag. The perfect gift for any occasion.

Baci di Dama (Ladies' Kisses) are one of Italy's most famous biscotti - crunchy almond exterior with a rich chocolate centre. Delicious with tea or coffee and as an after dinner treat with liqueur.

In 1952, 13 year old Sergio Rippa began working under the Maestro Confectioner who invented the now world famous Baci di Dama biscuit at his bakery in Tortona, Piemonte. In 1958, Sergio and his brother opened their own Pasticceria just 5 miles down the road in Sale.

For over half a century they have been crafting hand-made confectionery of the very highest level. A combination of the techniques learnt from the Maestro, Sergio's own creativity and uncompromising use of the finest quality ingredients, the results today are as stunning as they always have been.

They come in a beautiful presentation box and make a fantastic gift for anyone.

Anchovies are a true specialty around Mediterranean fishing areas and really hit their peak off the Southern coast of Italy.

These are tender anchovies marinated in a delicous and subtle oil with local herbs making them perfect as an antipasto but also ideal for a range of dishes, such as a rice and anchovy salad; Spaghetti del Marinaio; Lamb alla Cacciatora; or as a simple pizza topping. They add a unique flavour to countless dishes.

The anchovies come in a large 300g jar and keep for ages.

The most famous and common variety of Italian rice. Arborio is renowned for its high starch content, great for creamy risottos and its large rounded grain that keeps its shape well during cooking and provides a more al dente taste and texture.  Arborio is versatile enough to combine beautifully with any kind of dish but is especially suited as a base for risotto.

This is a Superior Category Arborio rice (the highest quality) cultivated in the famous rice growing area of Vercelli, Piedmont.

Cooks in 15-18 minutes.

Finest Sicilian artichokes blended with herbs produce a mild and smooth tasting pate that is perfect on warm crostini or crackers.

The addition of chillies provides a nice piquant aftertaste. A great addition to any platter of starters and for any occasion. Perfect as a side dish to grilled meats and fish and even as a base for pasta sauces.

Finest whole Sicilian artichokes in oil, combined with a selection of natural herbs and chilli. They can be eaten as an individual antipasto or added to a pasta or spelt salad. Chop them up and add them to pasta sauces or risotto.

So versatile and they're good for you as well! Sicilian artichokes are actually famed for their therapeutic properties, helping the digestive system and kidney function.

Simone Asero at Etna Conserve, a small producer in the shadow of Mount Etna, expertly creates this range of fine Italian starters using only local ingredients grown in the fertile soil surrounding the volcano.

Please note this item has a Best Before date of 30/07/2013 and has been discounted for this reason. You can rest assured it has been kept in an ideal storage environment and will remain in perfect condition for well beyond this date. You also have our full-refund peace of mind guarantee if you aren't completely satisfied with it.

A great chance to get hold of a gourmet Italian starter at a great price. Don't miss out - last piece remaining.

A delightful and tasty antipasto from Sicily. The flesh from premium quality Sicilian aubergines is filleted and then combined with natural aromatic herbs, spices and a hint of chilli to produce a magnificent taste of the Mediterranean.

Delicious on its own served on crostini, toast or crackers. They can also be used in pasta or rice salads, risottos and as a pairing for cheese, cured meats and hams as well as grilled meats. Easy! Another classic tapenade to add to the platter.

Not sure which Italian starters to choose or quantities per person? Drop us a line, we can advise on the most suitable menu, quantities, serving suggestions etc. to make sure your event is a fantastic success!

01227 261909 or customerservice@mediterraneandirect.co.uk

Delicious Aubergine Paté from the award winning range of Paté by Etna Conserve in Sicily.

Ripe Sicilian aubergines are combined with aromatic Italian herbs and spices to produce a smooth, super-tasty paté. This is ideal for spreading onto crusty bread or toast or enjoying alongside a mixed vegetable antipasto. Also excellent as a dip for pinzimonio di verdure or raw vegetables.

This multi-award winning Prosecco makes a wonderful aperitif at any meal. Its lovely light fruit taste means it is also perfectly suited as an easy-drinking sparkling wine to share with friends and makes the ultimate party or event wine! It's our number one best selling product and is constantly receiving rave reviews!

If you're organising an event and looking for a special wine to serve then contact us. We also have own label opportunities on this wine.

Type: Sparkling White Extra Dry

Producer: Azienda Agricola Mass Bianchet

Zone: Vidor, Valdobbiadene, Veneto, Italy

Grape: 100% Prosecco

Year: 2011

Alc Vol: 11.5%

Ageing: Not a wine for conserving. Drinking now

Tasting Notes

Colour: Bright straw yellow

Bouquet: Slightly fruity.

Taste: Delicate fruit, hints of pear and almonds.

Serving notes: Serve chilled at 7-8°C.

Size: 750ml

Award winning sundried tomatoes from near Mount Etna in Sicily. Delicious and full flavoured, they are perfect as part of a platter of starters or tapenades. Only the tastiest and sweetest tomatoes, bathed in Sicilian sunshine are used and they are quite simply the best sundried tomatoes we've ever tasted.

Their full and rich flavour makes them ideal as an individual antipasto or chopped up they can really bring a fresh salad to life! Great also with cheeses, cured meats and hams.

Simone Asero at Etna Conserve, a small producer in the shadow of Mount Etna, expertly creates this range of fine Italian starters using only local ingredients grown in the fertile lands surrounding the volcano.

Award winning Baci di Dama biscuits from Pasticceria Rippa in Piemonte.

In 1952, 13 year old Sergio Rippa began working under the Maestro Confectioner who invented the now world famous Baci di Dama biscuit at his bakery in Tortona, Piemonte. In 1958, Sergio and his brother opened their own Pasticceria just 5 miles down the road in Sale.

For over half a century they have been crafting hand-made confectionery of the very highest level. A combination of the techniques learnt from the Maestro, Sergio's own creativity and uncompromising use of the finest quality ingredients, the results today are as stunning as they always have been.

Baci di Dama (Ladies' Kisses) have a crunchy almond exterior with a rich chocolate centre. Delicious with tea or coffee and as an after dinner treat with liqueur.

If you've never tried them before, we highly recommend them.

From one of the best rice growing zones in the world. This Superfine Baldo rice is one of the finest but least well known of Italian rices. It is also one of the most versatile. It has a rich flavour and the grain maintains its texture and taste during cooking. Great for risottos and with fish, but it is the rice par excellence for rice salads.

Cooks in roughly 15-18 minutes.

From Vercelli, Piedmont, Italy

Click Here to Learn all about Italian Rice and How to Make a Great Risotto

The latest entry into the Tinello series of gourmet condiments by Il Borgo del Balsamico. This is a high quality Balsamic Cream made by very skilfully reducing aged IGP Balsamic Vinegar of Modena without carbonising and without the addition of caramel colouring (as most balsamic creams or glazes have).

Balsamic creams have been used by top chefs since the early 90s and only now are they gaining popularity for use at home. It's easy to see why. A good balsamic cream is so versatile it will enhance the full spectrum of dishes from starters to desserts (see below for some suggestions). It also adds a fabulous touch of finishing decoration. The handy squeezable bottle and special nozzle will allow your creativity to finish off a dish in style with swirls of dark, shimmering balsamic surround the main features on the plate to great effect. True haute cuisine at home!

Our balsamic cream glaze is produced by Borgo del Balsamico from Reggio Emilia and anyone who's tried Borgo products before will know they don't do ordinary! It is one of the finest balsamic creams you will find. Made exclusively from local Trebbiano grape must which has been aged in oak barrels and then gently reduced to produce a rich, smooth cream with a pronounced depth of flavour and elegant sweetness. It will heighten other flavours but never compete or overide.

An exceptional and unique aged balsamic vinegar that naturally refines and enhances the flavours of any cuisine. The Vigna D'oro or Golden Vine uses the sweetest Trebbiano grapes from the Modena area and is aged for a minimum of 6 years* in small wooden casks. The result is a sophisticated yet balanced taste with an alluring aroma. 6 years of aging also gives it a lovely natural density. Watch it slowly ooze out of the bottle drop by drop!

Excellent particularly with medium and aged cheeses, roast meats, exotic and spicy dishes and sweer and sour.

It comes with its own gift box to make a lovely and memorable gift for any foodie!

Contains no colourants, flavourings, denseners or preservatives. Will keep for years.

From Modena, Italy.

Learn all about the Balsamic Vinegar in our articles here.

The Superior Taste Awards - 3 Star Winner.

As testimony to the quality of the Golden Vine and the Compagnia del Montale range of balsamic vinegars, it has just won the highest accolade at the prestigious Superior Taste Awards 2012 held in Brussels.

The awards are organised by the International Taste & Quality Institute and are considered as the Michelin Guide for quality foods. The jury is selected from the cream of European chefs and Sommeliers who judge each product on its own merit.

The Vigna D'Oro was one of the very few outstanding products to win 3 stars, the highest possible.

3 Stars - for exceptional products with a score of over 90%

2 Stars - for excellent products with a score from 80 - 90%

1 Star - for noteable products with a score from 70 - 80%

This superb balsamic vinegar sits in the middle of a set of 3, the yellow, the orange and the red from the Borgo del Balsamico. Each has its own use and character through aging. The orange label is aged for a minimum of 4 years*.

Produced with the same loving care as the traditional DOP balsamic vinegars, the orange label is a highly versatile aged balsamic condiment that combines perfectly with red meats, cold dishes, vegetables and risottos. Its subtle and mellow flavours produce a refined and elegant taste with startling depth conferred by the wooden barrels during aging.

Comes in a beautiful presentation box. Makes a great gift for any foody!

Contains no colourants, thickening agents, flavourings or preservatives - only 100% pure grape must. Will keep for years.

Also available in 100ml bottle.

There is a lot of confusion surrounding Balsamic Vinegars. Read our article for all you need to know

*Sellers will often make claims about aging. E.g. "aged for 8 years". This is often a blend of very young vinegars with a little 8 year old in. Always check the minimum age!

Gold Winner at the 2010 Great Taste Awards!

An authentic aged balsamic vinegar in a beautiful presentation box. The red label, by Borgo del Balsamico in Reggio Emilia, is our best seller and best loved. It is the most exclusive of the 3 condiments (together with the yellow and the orange) and is a true gourmet product.

Produced with the same loving care as the traditional DOP balsamic vinegars, the red label is left for years in barrels of different types of wood to age and slowly gather their varying aromas, giving it a beautifully refined and complex flavour with a lovely natural density.

It is one of those very few products that gets everybody in agreement on how amazing it tastes and it is on a par with some of the most expensive traditional DOP balsamics for sheer elegance and class.

It combines perfectly with uncooked dishes, Parmesan cheese, fruit (try it on strawberries!), ice cream and other desserts. To be used in drops!

The beautiful bottle and presentation box make this a fabulous, prized gift for any occasion. Will keep for years.

Contains no colourants, denseners, flavourings or preservatives - only 100% pure grape must.

Learn all about the wonderful world of Balsamic Vinegar here.

3 colours, 3 different and unique characters. The yellow, orange and the red labels from Borgo del Balsamico.

The yellow label is the youngest of these authentic balsamic vinegars and is fragrant, vibrant and lively in flavour, making it a great accompaniment for meat and fish or as a dressing for salads and marinades.

It is aged in French oak barriques and you can instantly taste the woody undertones which add a real elegance to the dish. This wonderful set of balsamics is far removed from anything you would get in the supermarket.

Contains no colourants, thickening agents, flavourings or preservatives - only 100% pure grape must.

Also available in 100ml bottle.

There is a lot of confusion surrounding Balsamic Vinegars. Read all about true Balsamic Vinegars in our article.

If you like olives you will love this! Black Sicilian olives from the fertile groves of the Mount Etna National Park, renowned for their full flavour, are carefully blended with herbs, spices and a hint of chilli.

This is one of the classic Mediterranean antipasti. Its smooth rich flavour is ideal for warm crostini, toast or crackers and served as a luscious starter. Also adds delightful flavour and texture to pasta sauces.

Delicious Sicilian black Nocellara olives in a lovely spicy oil to add a bit of chilli kick. The olives are from groves nestling in the shadow of Mount Etna, a wonderfully fertile area producing some of the Mediterranean's tastiest fruits. Spicy black olives are also one of the Med's classic antipasto dishes, served all over the south of Italy.

These olives, selected by artisan expert Simone Asero at Etna Conserve, are full flavoured and are an excellent way to keep your guests nibbling until the main course.

Spicy green olives are also available, try mixing together for a lovely presentation and blend of tastes. Check out the whole red chilli in the jar, which is nice to serve together as well.

Incredible value at £7.49/kg

Also available in 1.7kg and 5kg versions. Please contact us for details.

Not sure which Italian starters to choose or quantities per person? Drop us a line, we can advise on the most suitable menu, quantities, serving suggestions etc. to make sure your event is a fantastic success!

01227 261909 or customerservice@mediterraneandirect.co.uk

Black Squid Ink Spaghetti as recommended by Nigella! http://www.nigella.com/books/nigellissima_stockists

This special pasta is made from finest durum wheat with squid and cuttle fish ink added to give it the fascinating black appearance and a hint of flavour too.

Perfect with all kinds of seafood pasta dishes or simply with olive oil, garlic, onions and chillies garnished with basil and pecorino cheese.

Delicious and original!

THE GRANIA PASTA RANGE

Grania have called this range of gourmet pasta Le Gemme del Vesuvio or "Vesuvius Gems". In the Volcano's shadow, a group of artisan pasta makers apply their art every day to produce a pasta which looks and tastes fabulous. Only 3 ingredients are used. The finest durum wheat, the purest water and time. Lots of it.

At Grania, they have revived an ancient Neapolitan production process which involves drawing the pasta through bronze moulds to produce a rough surface which grabs the sauce and binds to it. The pasta is then dried very slowly at low temperatures to maintain all of its natural taste and goodness.

It keeps its shape and consistency perfectly when cooking and the "al dente" moment is very forgiving in case you just miss it!

From: Naples, Campania, Italy

Grania's Bucatini pasta has won Gold Medal at the Great Taste Awards. Widely considered the "Oscars" of artisan food in the UK, this bears testimony to the quality of this fine pasta range.

The Black Summer Truffle Tuber Aestivum Vitt is a classic to add a truffle flavouring to your dishes. It has a strong aroma but is actually fairly delicate to taste. For this reason it is often added to sauces during cooking. Somewhat cheaper than its more illustrious siblings, the white and winter black, the Summer Black truffle is a great affordable way to try one of gems of world cuisine.

Comes with an elegant booklet featuring a classic Italian truffle recipe (in English and Italian).

We have the largest range of preserved truffle products in the UK, including a number of award winners. Have a look around our truffle category for some excellent and original truffle inspired creations!

Read all about the different types of Italian Truffles in our Blog article here or find out why preserved truffles make a great alternative to fresh truffles.

A stunning blend of black summer truffles, mushrooms, black olives, extra virgin olive oil and aromatic herbs and spices. The result is an explosion of flavours which is a delight to add to countless dishes.

Try it in pasta sauces and risottos, add it to chicken breast or grilled meats, delicious on potatoes and vegetables. It is so flavoursome, you only need to add a little to get the perfect truffle taste.

Comes with an elegant booklet featuring a classic Italian truffle recipe (in English and Italian).

We have the largest range of preserved truffle products in the UK, including a number of award winners. Have a look around our truffle category for some excellent and original truffle inspired creations!

Read all about the different types of Italian Truffles in our Blog article here or find out why preserved truffles make a great alternative to fresh truffles.

Looking for fresh truffles? Check here.

A delightful addition to any antipasto spread. Premium quality tomato bruschetta with the addition of black truffles. Slowly toast thick crusty bread, rub on some garlic, add olive oil and spread this bruschetta over. Simple, original and wonderful!

Catering sizes available. Please contact us for details.

We have the largest range of preserved truffle products in the UK, including a number of award winners. Have a look around our truffle category for some excellent and original truffle inspired creations!

Read all about the different types of Italian Truffles in our Blog article here or find out why preserved truffles make a great alternative to fresh truffles.

Looking for fresh truffles? Check here.

Winner of Gold at the Great Taste Awards! High quality artisan pasta from Naples.

Bucatini pasta is like thick, hollow spaghetti and is perfect for rich tomato or cream sauces also excellent with olive oil based sauces as well. Try it with spicy sausage, all'Amatriciana, with mushrooms, great with shrimps and anchovies and often used instead of Spaghetti in Carbonara.

THE GRANIA PASTA RANGE

Grania have called this range of gourmet pasta Le Gemme del Vesuvio or "Vesuvius Gems". In the Volcano's shadow, a group of artisan pasta makers apply their art every day to produce a pasta which looks and tastes fabulous. Only 3 ingredients are used. The finest durum wheat, the purest water and time. Lots of it.

At Grania, they have revived an ancient Neapolitan production process which involves drawing the pasta through bronze moulds to produce a rough surface which grabs the sauce and binds to it. The pasta is then dried very slowly at low temperatures to maintain all of its natural taste and goodness.

It keeps its shape and consistency perfectly when cooking and the "al dente" moment is very forgiving in case you just miss it!

The pasta has a lovely golden yellow colour and is just another reason they call them Vesuvius Gems!

From: Naples, Campania, Italy

Testimony to the quality of Grania pasta range: Bucatini Pasta  - Winner of Gold at the Great Taste Award - The "Oscars" of gourmet food in the UK!

Aged in French oak Barriques.

The refined elegance of the "Calamaio" bottle encapsulates the dense, velvet consistency of an exceptional aged balsamic vinegar.

It effortlessly marries with the finest gourmet cuisine and features a special easy-pouring nozzle which matches its stylish design.

Calamaio aged balsamic vinegar makes a memorable gift. 250ml bottle.

Delicious and sumptuous Sicilian capers preserved in sea salt. Capers from Sicily are amongst the finest in the world and are bursting with fragrance and flavour. Capers are also one of the healthiest ingredients around and extensively used in Mediterranean cuisine.

Salt is an essential ingredient for capers, allowing them to ripen and maintain all their quality. Before eating, rinse them with water to remove the salt then dry and season with extra virgin olive oil. Use in salads, on pizzas, in pasta sauces or grind up to make a pesto. They are very versatile and can be added to a huge number of recipes to add a little of their inimitable flavour.

Excellent value catering-size product from the Campo D'Oro range. 2.9kg Net weight jar

From one of the best rice growing zones in the world. The king of Italian rice. Most consider Carnaroli to be the risotto rice par excellence. It maintains its firmness during cooking and loses very little of its high starch content giving a delicious creaminess to the dish. It also means it absorbs flavours better than other rices, while maintaining its shape and all its natural goodness.

Our Carnaroli is a superior quality rice produced by artisan expert Enrico Molinaro in Vercelli and you will not find rice of this qulaity at this price anywhere else!

From Vercelli, Piedmont, Italy

See Our Italian Rice and How to Make a Great Risotto Article

From the award winning Grania pasta range from Naples. Casarecce pasta is a short, twisted tube of pasta open along it's length. It has a brilliant groove for holding the sauce and is a firm favourite with kids in Italy. Use it with lighter tomato or cream based sauces.

THE GRANIA PASTA RANGE

Grania have called this range of gourmet pasta Le Gemme del Vesuvio or "Vesuvius Gems". In the Volcano's shadow, a group of artisan pasta makers apply their art every day to produce a pasta which looks and tastes fabulous. Only 3 ingredients are used. The finest durum wheat, the purest water and time. Lots of it.

At Grania, they have revived an ancient Neapolitan production process which involves drawing the pasta through bronze moulds to produce a rough surface which grabs the sauce and binds to it. The pasta is then dried very slowly at low temperatures to maintain all of its natural taste and goodness.

It keeps its shape and consistency perfectly when cooking and the "al dente" moment is very forgiving in case you just miss it!

The pasta has a lovely golden yellow colour and is just another reason they call them Vesuvius Gems!

From: Naples, Campania, Italy

Grania's Bucatini pasta has won Gold Medal at the Great Taste Awards. Widely considered the "Oscars" of artisan food in the UK, this bears testimony to the quality of this fine pasta range.

Cavatelli look like small, slightly open clams which makes them great for collecting the sauce in the middle. They are very versatile and are an ideal accompaniment with thicker, more chunky meat or cream sauces, seafood or vegetables. They are also delicious in cold pasta salads.

THE GRANIA PASTA RANGE

Grania have called this range of gourmet pasta Le Gemme del Vesuvio or "Vesuvius Gems". In the Volcano's shadow, a group of artisan pasta makers apply their art every day to produce a pasta which looks and tastes fabulous. Only 3 ingredients are used. The finest durum wheat, the purest water and time. Lots of it.

At Grania, they have revived an ancient Neapolitan production process which involves drawing the pasta through bronze moulds to produce a rough surface which grabs the sauce and binds to it. The pasta is then dried very slowly at low temperatures to maintain all of its natural taste and goodness.

It keeps its shape and consistency perfectly when cooking and the "al dente" moment is very forgiving in case you just miss it!

The pasta has a lovely golden yellow colour and is just another reason they call them Vesuvius Gems!

From: Naples, Campania, Italy

Grania's Bucatini pasta has won Gold Medal at the 2010 Great Taste Awards. Widely considered the "Oscars" of artisan food in the UK, this bears testimony to the quality of this fine pasta range.

Slitti's original chocolate spoons - As featured on Nigella's Christmas Kitchen!

http://www.nigella.com/books/nigellissima_stockists & http://www.dailymail.co.uk/home/you/article-2235942/Nigellas-Italian-Christmas-No-churn-chestnut-ice-cream.html

Slitti Chocolate Spoons have reached cult status in the world of chocolate. They were invented by Andrea Slitti in 1993 and have been imitated many times over the years. It is thanks to their original recipe (which still remains a closely guarded secret) and quality ingredients that makes them the original "true coffee spoons" par excellence.

This set of 3 spoons is made with gourmet quality pure chocolate (60% cocoa) and Piedmont hazelnuts from the Langhe region of Italy, which are full flavoured and blend perfectly with chocolate.

The spoons very slowly melt as you stir your coffee adding a wonderful essence to the coffee while gaining in flavour themselves. A gastronomic symbiosis of excellence! Of course the spoons make a great treat on their own too!

A wonderful, original gift for any occasion. Enjoy!

Also available in pure chocolate - sets of 3 and 6. Best with Slitti's own range of coffees which are available in this category

Delicious chocolate cantuccini biscuits in a lovely presentation box. Made by the Belli family Biscottificio in Prato, Tuscany, the home of Cantuccini!

The combination of the finest, local raw materials - quality dark chocolate, fresh pasteurised eggs and best butter - with the passion and expertise of the Belli family, make an outstanding biscuit. The Belli family has been producing cantuccini since 1958 and still today adhere strictly to the family recipes and timeless artisan preparation.

These chocolate cantuccini look great and taste even better. Perfect with a cup of tea or coffee or as an after dinner treat. They make ideal gifts at any time of the year. Outstanding price/quality!

Delicious chocolate Cantuccini biscotti presented in a beautiful "vecchi tempi" old-style bag. Makes a lovely gift idea.

These biscuits are made by the Belli family Biscottificio from Prato, Tuscany, the home of Cantuccini

The combination of the finest local raw materials - quality dark chocolate, fresh pasteurised eggs and best butter - with the passion and expertise of the Belli family make an outstanding biscuit.  The Belli family has been producing cantuccini since 1958 and still today strictly adhere to the family recipes and timless artisan processes of Tuscan pastry preparation. 

Cantuccini are lovely at any time, with tea or coffee or as an after dinner treat.

Slitti's original chocolate spoons - As featured on Nigella's Christmas Kitchen!

http://www.nigella.com/books/nigellissima_stockists & http://www.dailymail.co.uk/home/you/article-2235942/Nigellas-Italian-Christmas-No-churn-chestnut-ice-cream.html

Slitti Chocolate Spoons have reached cult status in the world of chocolate. They were invented by Andrea Slitti in 1993 and have been imitated many times over the years. It is thanks to their original recipe (which still remains a closely guarded secret) and quality ingredients that makes them the original coffee spoons par excellence.

This set of 3 spoons is made with gourmet quality pure chocolate (60% cocoa) and coated with extra-fine cocoa powder. They very slowly melt as you stir your coffee adding a wonderful essence to the coffee while gaining in flavour themselves. An excellent gastronomic symbiosis! Of course the spoons make are delicious on their own too!

They come in a special presentation box and make a wonderful, original gift for any occasion.

Also available in set of 6 and with Piedmont Hazelnuts. Best with Slitti's own range of coffees which are available in this category.

From an original recipe created by Orazio D'Alessandro. The splendid Cioccofruit (pronounced Chocofruit) range is an artisan produced creamy spread which marries the finest Italian fruit with pure 75% cocoa chocolate.

Its high fruit content and unique, innovative taste makes it a delicious and healthy alternative to the popular nut creams and is a great way to get kids to enjoy more fruit and guilt-free delight for adults too!

Marvellous for breakfast or as a snack on bread or toast and makes a lovely filling for cakes and pastries or to adorn pancakes, fresh fruit desserts and vanilla icecream. Irresistible!

This is Apple and Toasted Almonds with Pure Chocolate. Also available in the Cioccofruit range: Pear with chocolate, Orange with chocolate and Chestnut with chocolate flavours.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER

From the beautiful, unspoilt bational park area of Abruzzo, famed for its orchards which produce some of Italy's best quality fruit, D'Alessandro Confetture have been producing artisan jams and spreads for over half a century. The company was started by Orazio D'Alessandro in the 1950s and is now run by his 3 children who, like their father refuse to compromise on quality and their artisan hand-made approach.

From an original recipe created by Orazio D'Alessandro. The splendid Cioccofruit (pronounced Chocofruit) range is an artisan produced creamy spread which marries the finest Italian fruit with pure 75% cocoa chocolate.

Its high fruit content and unique, innovative taste makes it a delicious and healthy alternative to the popular nut creams and is a great way to get kids to enjoy more fruit and guilt-free delight for adults too!

Marvellous for breakfast or as a snack on bread or toast and makes a lovely filling for cakes and pastries or to adorn pancakes, fresh fruit desserts and vanilla icecream. Unforgettable!

This is Orange with Pure Chocolate. Also available in the Cioccofruit range: Apple and Toasted Almonds with chocolate, Pear with chocolate and Chestnut with chocolate flavours.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER

From the beautiful, unspoilt bational park area of Abruzzo, famed for its orchards which produce some of Italy's best quality fruit, D'Alessandro Confetture have been producing artisan jams and spreads for over half a century. The company was started by Orazio D'Alessandro in the 1950s and is now run by his 3 children who, like their father refuse to compromise on quality and their artisan hand-made approach.

In 1952, 13 year old Sergio Rippa began working under the Maestro Confectioner who invented the now world famous Baci di Dama biscuit at his bakery in Tortona, Piemonte. In 1958, Sergio and his brother opened their own Pasticceria just 5 miles down the road in Sale.

For over half a century they have been crafting hand-made confectionary of the very highest level. A combination of the techniques learnt from the Maestro, Sergio's own creativity and uncompromising use of the finest quality ingredients, the results today are as stunning as they always have been.

Baci di Dama biscotti (Ladies' Kisses) have a crunchy almond exterior with a rich chocolate centre. Delicious with tea or coffee and as an after dinner treat with liqueur.

This is a large 500g bag of Baci di dama - plenty for everyone!

Delicious Cantuccini biscuits by the Belli family Biscottificio in Prato, Tuscany, the home of Cantuccini!

The combination of the finest local raw materials - the best Italian almonds, fresh pasteurised eggs and quality butter - with the passion and expertise of the Belli family, make an outstanding almond biscuit.

The Belli family have been producing Cantuccini since 1958 and still today adhere strictly to the family recipes of Tuscan pastry preparation. Delicious on their own with tea or coffee or try dipping them into Vinsanto or dessert wine for an original and enjoyable way to round off dinner. They make ideal gifts at any time of the year.

Delicious Almond Cantuccini presented in a beautiful "vecchi tempi" old style bag. Makes a lovely gift idea

They are made by the Belli family Biscottificio from Prato, Tuscany, the home of Cantuccini! These Cantuccini "Extra" contain 25% finest almonds to give an extra-special taste!

The combination of the finest local raw materials - the best almonds, fresh pasteurised eggs and quality butter - with the artisan passion and expertise of the Belli family make an outstanding almond biscuit.  The Belli family has been producing cantuccini since 1958 and still today strictly adhere to the family recipes of Tuscan pastry cooking. Delicious on their own with tea or coffee or try dipping them into one of our Vinsanto for an original and luscious way to round off dinner.

A delicious combination of quality artisan Pecorino (ewe's milk cheese) with whole pieces of walnut. This fine Pecorino cheese is made from mountain Ewe's milk and aged slightly for 40 days in caves to acquire its lovely semi-soft texture and mild, fresh flavours which blend perfectly with the walnut pieces inside.

A peerless addition to any cheese board, it's also wonderful with honey, in many types of salad, on sandwiches or toast. For a classic Tuscan speciality, try it with pears!

Made by the Petrucci Brothers in the mountain area of north Lazio.

Approx. 400g

Spaghetti No. 14. This is the most popular spaghetti size used in restaurants all over Italy. It's the perfect thickness for all the classic spaghetti dishes.

USE: Spaghetti is the most common pasta type and lends itself to many types of sauces, especially olive oil based so each strand gets a nice coating.

The Granoro Pasta Range

Premium quality durum wheat and innovative production methods make the Granoro pasta range an excellent choice for everyday use. It is produced using special processes which maintain the natural quality and goodness of the wheat and really bring out all its flavour. The pasta cooks to perfection every time and effortlessly binds sauces to give deliciously balanced and full flavoured pasta dishes.

Cooking time: 6 minutes

Best way to cook pasta? Here's our guide on how to avoid Pasta Disasters!

What could be better!? - Quality Italian ground coffee for espresso or capuccino together with 3 of Italy's most famous Biscotti: Amaretti, Baci di Dama and Cantuccini. Presented in a decorative Gift box (Red or Gold) filled with multi-coloured shred. NB. IMPORTANT - Please read how to order and arrange delivery in the orange box at the bottom

WHAT'S IN THE BOX

Italian Blended Espresso Coffee - Buon Mattino (250g) - The Slitti Coffee Roasting Company have spent nearly 40 years researching and blending the best quality Arabica and Robusta coffees from all over the world. The results are a stunning selection of Italian style gourmet coffees which delight coffee lovers everywhere. Buon Mattino is a blend of premium Arabica and Robusta beans from 5 different countries. A dark ground coffee that gives you the lift you need at breakfast time with its full and pleasant aroma and a strong, firm and balanced taste. Slitti coffees are served in some of the top cafeterias and specialist shops in the world. Spoil yourselves with an espresso or cappuccino as it should be!

Soft Almond Amaretti in Black Gift Box (100g) - Delicious artisan made soft amaretti cookies. They are wonderful with tea or coffee or for an after dinner treat with liqueurs. They look fabulous too! Each is individually wrapped and make a great impression served at dinner!

Baci di Dama Quality Biscotti in White Gift Box (100g) - From Pasticceria Rippa in Sale, Piedmont. For over half a century they have been crafting hand-made confectionary of the very highest level. Baci di Dama (Ladies' Kisses) have a crunchy almond exterior with a rich chocolate centre. Delicious with tea or coffee and as an after dinner treat with liqueur. They come in a beautiful presentation box.

Chocolate Cantuccini in Stylish Gift Case (250g) - Delicious chocolate Cantuccini in a fabulous presentation cylinder by the Belli family Biscottificio in Prato, Tuscany. The combination of the finest local raw materials - quality dark chocolate, fresh pasteurised eggs and best butter - with the passion and expertise of the Belli family make an outstanding biscuit. The Belli family has been producing cantuccini since 1958 and still today strictly adhere to the family recipes and timless artisan processes of Tuscan pastry preparation. Cantuccini are delicious at any time, with tea or coffee or as an after dinner treat.

Who Would You Buy it For?

An easy to give gift which will be loved by anyone with a sweet tooth and a love of quality coffee.

Cantuccini are one of Italy's most famous biscotti and ours from the Belli Biscottificio are a superb example.

The combination of the finest raw materials - quality arabica coffee, fresh pasteurised eggs and best butter - with the passion and expertise of the Belli family make an outstanding biscuit. The Belli family has been producing cantuccini since 1958 and still today strictly adhere to the family recipes of Tuscan pastry cooking.

These coffee cantuccini look good and taste even better! Cantuccini are perfect for dipping into tea, coffee or as an after dinner treat with a Vinsanto or sweet dessert wine.

They come in lovely gift box. An outstanding price/quality product!

If you like to sample and discover new tastes, then this lovely and original pesto from Sicily is well worth a try.

The delicate taste of courgettes marries perfectly with the more robust flavours of the world famous Pistachios from Bronte in Sicily. The result is a delicious and light pesto with a wide variety of different uses.

It's perfect for pasta and rice dishes as well as starters on bread and even as a gourmet sandwich spread. See below for a few suggestions. Kids love this too and it's a great way to get them to eat a bit more veg!

Another classic starter from the Licata family in Sicily. These green Nocellara olives are prepared according to timeless Sicilian artisan methods using only water and Trapani sea salt. Cracked (or crushed) olives have remained a central feature of Sicilian antipasto culture for centuries.

The olives are simply split open to allow the mild brine marinade to filter inside and penetrate the flesh. In this way they are perfectly and evenly cured to eliminate all acidity and leave a full natural olive taste without the bitterness. They are left to mature for 4 months and then sealed in these elegant jars.

Please note this item has a Best Before date of 19/05/2013 and has been discounted for this reason. You can rest assured it has been kept in an ideal storage environment and will remain in perfect condition for well beyond this date. You also have our full-refund peace of mind guarantee if you aren't completely satisfied with it.

A great chance to get hold of a gourmet cured meat at a great price. Don't miss out - very few pieces remaining.

If you're ever in the Siena area of Tuscany, keep a look out for Italy's most famous onion: the sweet and delicious Certaldo onion with PDO status, Cipolla di Certaldo DOP.

Gelli Salumi, artisan maestros in the art of curing meat, hail from Certaldo and couldn't resist the temptation to blend this local delicacy with their finest cured pork salami.

The result is an exclusive and unique salami which is deliciously flavoured and makes a perfect and original addition to any cold meat selection or on pizza or pasta dishes.

It's amazing onion shape is sure to get your guests talking!

NB. this is an artisan cured meat, made by hand and weights may vary very slightly. £23.59/kg.

Ditalini Rigate pasta from the fine Granoro pasta range from Puglia.

Ditalini Rigate (little thimbles) are a great pasta shape - small tubes with ridges along the sides and are one of the most popular pastas for minestrone, soups and al brodo or in broths. Another classic use is the wonderful pasta e fagioli or pasta and beans. Try them with our Borlotti beans for a traditional and simple Italian meal. Ditalini are also great for pasta salads and kids love them too!

The Granoro Pasta Range

Premium quality durum wheat and innovative production methods make the Granoro pasta range an excellent choice for everyday use. It is produced using special processes which maintain the natural quality and goodness of the wheat and bring out all its flavour. The pasta cooks to perfection every time and effortlessly binds sauces to give deliciously balanced and full flavoured pasta dishes.

Please note this item has a Best Before date of 23/07/2013 and has been discounted for this reason. You can rest assured it has been kept in an ideal storage environment and will remain in perfect condition for well beyond this date. You also have our full-refund peace of mind guarantee if you aren't completely satisfied with it.

A great chance to get hold of some gourmet chocolates at a great price. Don't miss out - very few pieces remaining.

These chocolate Dragées combine Italy's finest hazelnuts and almonds which are covered in a unique pure blend of chocolate.

World-famous aromatic hazelnuts from the Langhe area of Piedmont and sweet almonds from Puglia really stand out in this original, gourmet product. They are coated with a special blend of milk and dark chocolate (60% cocoa) and finished with a sprinkling of extra-fine cocoa powder. Made by cratsman and artist, Andrea Slitti (Italian chocolatier of the year) in his workshop near Pistoia in Tuscany.

They come in a wonderfully decorated presentation box and make an original, delicious gift for anyone.

From the award winning Caccia e Corte range of premium Tuscan game sauces.

This special duck ragu is based on an ancient recipe recreated by chefs Rosalia and Piero Caruso at La Cucina in Castelfiorentino near Siena. It is produced in limited quantities using the very finest and freshest ingredients.

The ragu has a particularly high meat content from the legs and breast of the duck, which is prepared with a traditional ragu base of extra-virgin olive oil, white Tuscan IGT wine, chopped tomatoes, red onion, celery, carrots and Tuscan herbs and spices. It contains no preservatives or artificial additives.

The meat is very gently simmered for a long time until it is incredibly tender and has imparted all its flavours into the thick sauce. The ragu is so hearty and robust, you only need to coat the pasta with it. (See our cooking tip below). Gourmet pasta dishes have never been so easy!

Having the UK's largest selection of Italian truffle products, it was only fitting we created a selection of some of the best. The result is this stunning set of exclusive Italian Truffle products from Umbria. All the items have been carefully selected and can be used together or individually. You won't find a gift like this anywhere else. Presented in a decorative Christmas Box (red or gold) filled with multi-coloured Christmas shred. NB. IMPORTANT - Please read how to order and arrange delivery in the orange box at the bottom

WHAT'S IN THE BOX

White Truffle Extra Virgin Olive Oil (55ml) - Extra Virgin Olive Oil infused with white truffle. The white truffle is one of the most outstanding and sought after ingredients in world cuisine. This special oil will give any dish the lovely full aroma of the white truffle quickly and easily. Use it in preparation of food or as a condiment once the dish is ready.

Truffle Honey(100g) - The rich sweetness of Acacia honey and the wonderful subtle earthy flavour of Bianchetto truffles make a fabulous and original combination. The truffles are sliced into the honey. This is a classic condiment to pair especially with cheese. Also wonderful to garnish roast meat dishes, especially game and as an antipasto with cured meats.

White Truffle Sauce (50g) - An exquisite mix of quality white truffles, creamy butter, shavings of Parmesan cheese. This is a refined cream which is as versatile as it is delicious. Try it with grilled or pan-fried meats or in pasta sauces or to make the most delicious risottos. Only need a little to bring a touch of class to any meal!

Black Summer Truffle Carpaccio (ready sliced 30g) - The Black Summer Truffle (Tuber Aestivum Vitt) is a classic to add a truffle flavouring to your dishes. It has a strong aroma but is actually fairly delicate to taste. For this reason it is often added to sauces like a stock. Much cheaper than its more prestigious brothers, the white or superior black, it is a great affordable way to try one of the gems of world cuisine.

Green Pesto with Truffle (180g) - An amazing combination. Finest Pesto Genovese with a delicious mild truffle flavour makes an original pasta sauce. Winner of Gold at the Great Taste Awards.

Truffle Polenta (200g) - As impressive as it is simple, a perfectly natural product that is so easy to prepare. Delicious on its own as a starter with Parmesan cheese or as a base for ragu-type sauces (try it with Porcini mushrooms) or as a side to many grilled or roast meats. This is one of our favourite products, Original, simple and addictive! Comes with instruction and recipe booklet.

Artisan Biscuits with Black Norcia Truffles (250g) - A unique blend of sweet nut and the dreamy muskiness of this prized black Norcia truffle. How can biscuits be this good we asked? Firstly, the black truffle from Norcia in Umbria (Tartufo Nero Pregiato di Norcia) is one of the most precious and delicious ingredients found in world cuisine. The biscuits are prepared by artisan experts at La Vecchia Forneria and the truffles are hand-mixed tand then slowly ground with the other ingredients using a traditional stone mill. Totally natural and none of the flavour is lost. Delicious at any time with tea or coffee or with a good dessert wine after dinner.

Pheasant & Truffle Paté (135g) - Paté di Faggiano al Tartufo. Pheasant and black truffles have been part of Italian and French haute cuisine for centuries. It makes a wonderful exclusive addition to any antipasto platter or tapenades. Only the finest local ingredients are used such as pheasant and truffles from the great Tuscan forests, extravirgin olive oil, Vernaccia, a classic white wine from San Gimignano, Tuscan herbs and spices. An irresistible and exquisite gourmet experience! Winner of Double Gold Star at the Great Taste Awards

Truffled Salt (30g) - An irresistible blend of real ground black truffles and sea salt. This is a great way to instantly add truffle flavour and aroma to any dish all year round. Try it on eggs, omelettes, beans, soups, antipasti, pasta and rice dishes... the list is endless. A must-have condiment to keep in the larder.

Who Would You Buy it For?

This is a wonderful gift for budding masterchefs or gourmands! Memorable and refined, they'll love you for it!

Delicious Almond Cantuccini presented in a lovely, extra-large hexagonal gift box with Florence motif. So Italian and makes a lovely gift idea

The Cantuccini are made by the Belli family Biscottificio from Prato, Tuscany, the home of Cantuccini! They contain an incredible 25% finest almonds for a special rich flavour.

The combination of the finest local raw materials - the best almonds, fresh pasteurised eggs and quality butter - with the artisan passion and expertise of the Belli family make an outstanding almond biscuit.

The Belli family has been producing cantuccini since 1958 and still today strictly adhere to the family recipes of Tuscan pastry cooking. Delicious on their own with tea or coffee or try dipping them into one of our Vinsanto for an original and luscious way to round off dinner.

Extra large gift box - enough for everyone!

We are delighted to introduce this outstanding range of artisan Italian jams. They have had enormous success in Italy and are now present in the UK for the first time.

This is a special Bitter Orange Marmalade with a high fruit content and comes in a large 380g jar. Plenty for everyone!

From the beautiful, unspoilt national park area of Abruzzo, famed for its orchards which produce some of the finest fruit in Italy, D'Alessandro Confetture have been producing quality artisan jams for over half a century.

The company was started by Orazio D'Alessandro in the 1950s and is now run by his 3 children who, like their father refuse to compromise on quality. While most producers use fruit left over from other industries to make their jams, D'Alessandro use only the best, freshly picked local fruit in this outstanding range of fruit preserves.

The fruit is picked at the perfect ripeness when the natural sugar levels are at their highest and then literally crammed into the jars. For this reason the jams are visibly denser and less transparent than others. Their full fruit flavour and lovely consistency means they are delicious on breakfast toast, for children's snacks or home-made cakes or desserts. Try them with fresh or aged cheese as well.

They contain no added pectin, preservatives, flavourings or colourants. Well worth trying!

We are delighted to introduce this outstanding range of artisan Italian jams. They have had enormous success in Italy and are now present in the UK for the first time.

This is a sparkling Lemon Marmalade with a high fruit content and comes in a large 380g jar. Plenty for everyone!

From the beautiful, unspoilt national park area of Abruzzo, famed for its orchards which produce some of the finest fruit in Italy, D'Alessandro Confetture have been producing quality artisan jams for over half a century.

The company was started by Orazio D'Alessandro in the 1950s and is now run by his 3 children who, like their father refuse to compromise on quality. While most producers use fruit left over from other industries to make their jams, D'Alessandro use only the best, freshly picked local fruit in this outstanding range of fruit preserves.

The fruit is picked at the perfect ripeness when the natural sugar levels are at their highest and then literally crammed into the jars. For this reason the jams are visibly denser and less transparent than others. Their full fruit flavour and lovely consistency means they are delicious on breakfast toast, for children's snacks or home-made cakes or desserts. Try them with fresh or aged cheese as well.

They contain no added pectin, preservatives, flavourings or colourants. Well worth trying!

The combination of a pure, quality extra virgin olive oil and aromatic basil is one of the most irresitible in Mediterranean cuisine. The oil itself is from a small local frantoio (olive farm) in Umbria and the basil is simply left to rest in the oil and infuse all its natural flavour and aroma. You can see it in the bottle.

This flavoured oil is a fabulous dressing for all fish dishes, hot or cold.

Ingredients: Extravirgin olive oil from Umbria, basil.

This Basil Oil is part of a selection of quality flavoured oils from Umbria including sage, oregano, chilli, marjoram, rosemary and lemon.

In Italy the use of flavoured oils is a relatively new phenomena, however there is one combination you will find in every restaurant and most households the length and breadth of the country: Olio al Peperoncino - red chilli oil.

In our version, the oil itself is from a small local frantoio (olive mill) in Umbria and the chilli is simply left to rest in the oil and infuse all its natural flavours and aroma. You can see it in the bottle.

It's so versatile and adds a light, fresh olive oil flavour with the nice chilli kick to sauces, risotto, pizza, bruschetta, potatoes, sandwiches, beans... anything you want. Try it with aged cheeses! It's also a combination of 2 of the Med's healthiest ingredients: amongst many beneficial properties, it is full of vitamins, antiaging, helps digestion and blood circulation.

Ingredients: Extravirgin Olive Oil from Umbria, Red Chillies.

This chilli oil is part of a selection of quality flavoured oils including sage, marjoram, rosemary, lemon, basil and oregano.

This extravirgin olive oil flavoured with Lemon is part of a selection of quality flavoured oils from Umbria. They all have there own distinct character and uses, but they all start from the same basic ingredient: a premium quality extravirgin olive oil from a small local frantoio (olive mill) in Umbria.

The olives are cold pressed together with freshly picked lemons from Puglia and the result is a thrilling combination of 2 powerhouses of Mediterranean cuisine, whose flavours and aromas blend and contrast perfectly.

Highly versatile, it is perfect with all fish dishes, grilled meats, salads and cooked veg. A real taste of the Med in a bottle!

Ingredients: Extravirgin Olive Oil and Lemon.

Other oils include chilli, sage, marjoram, rosemary, oregano, basil and white truffle.

This extravirgin olive oil flavoured with Oregano is part of a selection of quality flavoured oils from Umbria. They all have there own distinct character and uses, but they all start from the same basic ingredient: a premium quality extravirgin olive oil from a small local frantoio (olive mill) in Umbria. 

The oregano is left to rest in the oil and infuses all its natural flavour and aroma. You can see it in the bottle!

Oregano is a classy herb. Richly flavoured and spicy it pairs perfectly with the lighter elegance of the olive oil and is ideal on tomato-based sauces, pizza, grilled meats and seafood. It adds depth to all kinds of soups and sauces

Ingredients: Extravirgin olive oil from Umbria, oregano.

Other oils include chilli, sage, marjoram, rosemary, lemon and basil.

This extravirgin olive oil flavoured with Italian rosemary is part of a superb selection of quality flavoured oils. They all have there own distinct character and uses, but they all start from the same basic ingredient: a premium quality extravirgin olive oil from a small local frantoio (olive mill) in Umbria. 

The rosemary is left to rest in the oil and infuses all its natural flavour and aroma. You can see it in the bottle!

It is delicate and harmonious, which means hugely versatile in the kitchen. Perfect for pasta, grilled and fried meats, delicious on lamb, fish, cheese and salads. 

Ingredients: Extra virgin olive oil from Umbria, Rosemary

Other flavoured oils include: Chilli, Sage, Marjoram, Lemon, Oregano, Basil and White Truffle

We are delighted to introduce this outstanding range of artisan Italian jams. They have had enormous success in Italy and are now present in the UK for the first time.

This is an Extra Wild Black Cherry jam with a high fruit content and comes in a large 380g jar. Plenty for everyone!

From the beautiful, unspoilt national park area of Abruzzo, famed for its orchards which produce some of the finest fruit in Italy, D'Alessandro Confetture have been producing quality artisan jams for over half a century.

The company was started by Orazio D'Alessandro in the 1950s and is now run by his 3 children who, like their father refuse to compromise on quality. While most producers use fruit left over from other industries to make their jams, D'Alessandro use only the best, freshly picked local fruit in this outstanding range of fruit preserves.

The fruit is picked at the perfect ripeness when the natural sugar levels are at their highest and then literally crammed into the jars. For this reason the jams are visibly denser and less transparent than others. Their full fruit flavour and lovely consistency means they are delicious on breakfast toast, for children's snacks or home-made cakes or desserts. Try them with fresh or aged cheese as well.

They contain no added pectin, preservatives, flavourings or colourants. Well worth trying!

This Fennel salame or Finocchiona is made by Gelli Salumi from near Siena in Tuscany. Our best selling salame, made from premium quality pork with the addition of wild fennel seeds and aromatic Tuscan herbs. It is expertly prepared using timeless Tuscan artisan curing processes by the maestro himself, 80 year old Signor Gelli. (We've been to visit Signor Gelli at his workshop on numerous occasions and after well over half a century of working with cured meats, his boyish enthusiasm as he speaks about his latest batch of creations is contagious and enthralling to behold. Great character!)

It has a soft texture and really does melt in your mouth. The herbs and wild fennel extend their flavours and combine perfectly with the lean pork during the curing process to produce a stunning version of this Tuscan classic. Guaranteed hit as part of a platter of antipasti at the dinner table and makes wonderful sandwiches as well.

From Certaldo, near Siena in Tuscany.

This is the mini-salame version. Also available in 500g size and larger catering sizes up to 3kg.

NB this is an artisan cured meat made by hand and weights may differ slightly. Approx £18.49/kg

Part of the Granoro Nidi (bird's nests) range of pasta.

Made from quality durum wheat flour from Puglia. Fettuccine (little Ribbons) is a classic long, "ribbon" like pasta which is delicious particularly with creamy sauces. Try it with carbonara instead of spaghetti or with a creamy ham and mushroom sauce. Fettuccine al Burro (from Alfredo di Lelio's restaurant) is a popular dish from Rome with Parmesan cheese and butter. Variations on this theme include adding shrimp and broccoli, spcicy sausage and peppers, chicken and peas.

The Granoro Pasta Range

Premium quality durum wheat and innovative production methods make the Granoro pasta range an excellent choice for everyday use. It is produced using special processes which maintain the natural quality and goodness of the wheat and really bring out all its flavour. The pasta cooks to perfection every time and effortlessly binds sauces to give deliciously balanced and full flavoured pasta dishes.

500g bags, long shelf life.

This is a classic fresh Tuscan pecorino made by the Fratelli Petrucci, award winning artisan cheesemakers from the mountain areas between Lazio and Umbria. Here the sheep graze peacefully on the area's fragrant, voluptuous pastures and the Ewe's milk obtained is rich, creamy and full of flavour.

The Pecorino is left to rest for 30 days until it reaches a semi-soft consistency and acquires its delicious mild, yet vivid and fresh flavours and smooth, creamy texture.

Perfect on its own or with a drizzle of honey and fresh pears. Other classic uses include in salads, with fava beans and grilled on crusty bread. We also love it with some of our fruit conserves and an absolute must at your next dinner party: fresh Tuscan pecorino DOP and white truffle honey!

NB. This is an artisan cheese and is hand cut so weights may vary slightly. Price per kg Only £23.99

These delicious and wholesome giant lentils are part of the Dedicato range (see below for description) by Granoro.

They are from an ancient lentil variety which thrives in the fertile soils and Mediterranean sunshine of the Alta Murgia National Park in Puglia. They are large, dark green and have a delightful nutty sweetness about them, with notes of grass and woody aftertaste. They also hold their shape and firmness superbly when cooking and are perfect for Italian and North African cuisine.

Lentils are a great source of protein and fibre. They are free of fat, cholesterol and gluten and hardly have any calories!

The Dedicato Range by Pastificio Atillio Mastromauro - Granoro

Puglia is a region of astonishing beauty and diversity but it also enjoys another distinction which perhaps isn't so well known in the UK; its outstanding farm produce.

The remarkable quality of vegetables, olives, cereals and legumes from Puglia is the tangible end result of an extraordinary terroir and centuries of farming tradition. The Dedicato Range of products celebrates the best Puglia has to offer - genuine products that are healthy and delicious. It also aims to help maintain sustainable farming in the area.

STRAIGHT FROM THE FARM

All the produce is cultivated in limited quantities on small farms in the region using traditional methods, then expertly transformed into the final product by a small group of local artisan companies. No supermarkets or large distributers are involved in what is an intimate process of bringing the consumer much closer to the producer.

The range includes pasta from select durum wheat varieties; wonderful cherry tomatoes and olive oil from Castel del Monte; Lentils and chickpeas from Altamura and the Alta Murgia National Park. They are all ancient varieties once commonly produced in the area until large-scale farming and industrial production meant the laborious working methods and small yields were no longer sustainable. Now thanks to projects like the Dedicato line, they are now making a comeback.

All the products carry a double seal of quality as they undergo regular and scrupulous quality checks by 2 independent bodies. They also have guaranteed traceable provenance.

DEDICATO LENTILS FROM THE ALTA MURGIA NATIONAL PARK, ALTAMURA

These special lentils are known as Altamura or Giant lentils. They were once the most sought after and cultivated in Italy and had a huge success in the US and Canada in the 1950s. However, from the 70s with the advent of industrial production and mass commercialisation, they were gradually replaced by more profitable, lower quality lentils and their cultivation practically vanished. It is now slowly making a comeback as more discerning consumers discover its taste and nutritional value is superior to most lentils on the market today.

Another aim of the Dedicato range of products is to help preserve the biodiversity of the land and safeguard its heritage of taste and tradition. For this reason farming is strictly controlled and only small sustainable areas are cultivated naturally with low environmental impact.

Now this is a real treat. Make gourmet hot chocolate in an instant. Just pop the girotto into a glass of hot milk and let it melt (if you can resist that long!)

The girotto is a great new innovation from Andrea Slitti, producer of some of the finest chocolate in the world. Sheer indulgence for yourself and it makes a great original gift for anyone. The quality of this artisan chocolate is second to none and the Girotto is just as exquisite on its own!

Each gift pack contains 4 Girotto.

The Slitti Coffee Roasting Company have spent nearly 40 years researching and blending the best quality Arabica and Robusta coffees from all over the world. The results are a stunning selection of Italian style gourmet coffees which delight coffee lovers everywhere.

Buon Mattino is a blend of premium Arabica and Robusta beans from 5 different countries. A dark ground coffee that gives you the lift you need at breakfast time with its full and pleasant aroma and a strong, firm and balanced taste.

Slitti coffees are served in some of the top cafeterias and specialist shops in the world. Spoil yourselves with an espresso or cappuccino as it should be!

Try it with Slitti's chocolate spoons (in this category). The spoons slowly melt as you stir the coffee - a great dinner party idea! 

Gran Cacao is a premium quality artisan Italian extra-dark chocolate from the outstanding Slitti Chocolatiers in Pistoia, Tuscany.

Andrea Slitti, Italian chocolatier of the year, has spent years researching the best cocoa blends from plantations around the world to achieve the most enhanced natural flavours and aromas. The award winning Gran Cacao range is the result and features a blend of cocoa beans from 5 different plantations in central America.

The range consists of varying percentages of cocoa - this is the 60% cocoa bar. Its perfectly balanced bitterness, blending and full flavour will satisfy even the most demanding chocolate connoisseur. 

A true gourmet dark chocolate without the expense.

Delicious with Slitti coffee and of course on its own as an everyday delight.

AWARDS

The Gran Cacao range has won many prestigious international awards including:

2006 GOLD BAR for best extra-dark chocolate - Gran Cacao 73%

2010 GOLD BAR for best extra-dark chocolate - Gran Cacao range

2011 GOLD BAR for best extra-dark chocolate - Gran Cacao 73%

Classic green lasagna (Lasagne Verdi) made from quality durum wheat and spinach. The lasagna sheets are specially rolled to give them a rough surfave which really captures and holds the sauce and then they are slowly dried to conserve all their flavour and nutritional properties. Quality pasta like this is strong and resistant and will cook perfectly al dente every time.

The classic lasagna dish is the rich and creamy Lasagna Verdi alla Bolognese,  but there are literally thousands of recipes you can try. This green spinach lasagna is a firm favourite for vegetarian lasagna but you can use it for any dish that calls for standard durum wheat lasagna. See below for a few suggestions.

Easy and quick to use, it doesn't require any pre-cooking, so just pop it in the oven and it's ready to go!

Kids love it too (don't tell them about the spinach though!).

Classic Sicilian Nocellara olives in brine. They work perfectly as table olives for everyday use, in antipasti or can be added to a variety of pasta sauces and salads. Healthy, delicious and at this price, amazing value!

These olives are grown in the fertile soils surrounding Mount Etna, one of the best fruit growing zones in the Med!

Only £7.39/kg

Also available in 1.7kg and 5kg versions. Please contact us for details.

Not sure which Italian starters to choose or quantities per person? Drop us a line, we can advise on the most suitable menu, quantities, serving suggestions etc. to make sure your event is a fantastic success!

01227 261909 or customerservice@mediterraneandirect.co.uk

One of a series of wonderful pates from the award winning Etna range. Brimming with delicious Sicilian green olives, this is a fabulous tasty pate' which will stand out in any antipasto platter. Simply serve on soft bread, crostini or toast, or use a dip for a lovely, easy starter. Green olive patè also adds a great flavour and texture to many pasta sauces and makes a fine spread on many sandwiches too!

Tip: mix with some other antipasti in the Etna range to form a complete Sicilian platter theme.

Not sure which Italian starters to choose or quantities per person? Drop us a line, we can advise on the most suitable menu, quantities, serving suggestions etc. to make sure your event is a fantastic success!

01227 261909 or customerservice@mediterraneandirect.co.uk

Succulent full-flavoured green olives from Sicily stuffed with ripe red peppers.

Two great tastes of the Mediterranean in one absorbing antipasto! These stuffed olives have been expertly prepared with a splendid traditional Sicilian dressing which really brings out all the flavours. One of Italy's most popular starters and an essential part of any Antipasto platter.

Only £8.89/kg

Also available in 1.7kg and 5kg versions. Please contact us for details.

Not sure which Italian starters to choose or quantities per person? Drop us a line, we can advise on the most suitable menu, quantities, serving suggestions etc. to make sure your event is a fantastic success!

01227 261909 or customerservice@mediterraneandirect.co.uk

Just in from Abruzzo - a delicious sweet green tomato and vanilla compote (composta di pomodori verdi e vaniglia).

A must try with soft or aged cheeses or as a complement to all kinds of Roasts. Gourmet cuisine at its very best!

What is Bottarga?

Bottarga is a prized delicacy sometimes known as the Caviar of the Med. It is made by drying and curing fish roe, in this case tuna, while grey mullet or swordfish is also used. Bottarga can be found in numerous forms all around the Mediterranean, but the ones from Sicily and Sardinia are widely held to be the finest.

The drying process and curing with sea salt takes place over several weeks. The result is a hard, dense block which is then cut into strips or "tongues". These Bottarga tongues can be used to grate directly onto dishes or, like this version, it can be ground into a ready to use powder.

Its taste is intense and just a small amount will impart a magnificent seafood flavour with hints of smoked fish. Bottarga is now found in many top restaurants as chefs are discovering its unique ability to transform a simple fish dish into a masterpiece.

This ground bottarga couldn't be easier to use. Just sprinkle it on as a seasoning - and remember, you only need a little to really heighten the other flavours. It can be used on thousands of dishes. Check some of our suggestions below for some simple ideas on how to use it.

If you don't know Bottarga, it's well worth trying out.

Read our Blog article on Bottarga here.

Il Bianco by Borgo del Balsamico. From their acclaimed Tinello series of artisan vinegars, il bianco is a high quality, traditional white wine vinegar from Modena and Reggio Emilia. It will brighten up hundreds of dishes - see below for just a few suggestions.

How to Spot a Good Wine Vinegar

A good wine vinegar adds a special dimension to all kinds of recipes and considering it has no calories, carbs, cholesterol, fat or salt it's a must-have ingredient for modern cooking. However, if you think just how much of a bearing it can have on the final taste of a dish, it's really worth the effort to find something decent.

The problem is, just like Balsamic vinegar, there are many wine vinegars on the market and it isn't always easy to know which one to buy. A good starting point is to look for vinegars produced from classic wine grapes that have fermented naturally over time (months or even years). NB Industrial wine vinegars (the most commonly available) are "created" at very high temperatures using forced-air and the entire process is over in a single day!

IL BIANCO - Traditional Italian White Wine Vinegar

This lovely white wine vinegar is prepared following the traditional artisan truciolo method: Oak chips (trucioli) are placed in the centre of a wooden cask and the wine is added. It remains here for months as it very slowly and naturally transforms into vinegar. It is then mellowed in stainless steel tanks and acquires a perfectly balanced acidity and great depth of flavour.

Il Bianco is decisive but never aggressive, possessing great smoothness and a harmonious rounded taste.

At the top of our range, the Indulgence (Deluxe) is a magnificent hamper. Makes a stunning gift for anyone you want to say a special thank you or Merry Christmas! Presented in an attractive whicker basket filled with multi-coloured Christmas shred and covered in a decorative christmas star cellophane wrap. NB. IMPORTANT - Please read how to order and arrange delivery in the orange box at the bottom

WHAT'S IN THE HAMPER

Red Label Aged Balsamic Vinegar from Reggio Emilia (250ml) - Gold Winner at the 2010 Great Taste Awards! An authentic aged balsamic vinegar in a beautiful presentation box. The red label, by Borgo del Balsamico in Reggio Emilia, is our best seller and best loved. Produced with the same loving care as the very expensive traditional DOP balsamic vinegars, the red label is left for years in barrels of different types of wood to age and slowly gather their varying aromas, giving it a beautifully refined and complex flavour with a lovely natural density. It is one of those very few products that gets everybody in agreement on how amazing it tastes and it is on a par with some of the most expensive traditional DOP balsamics for sheer elegance and class. It combines perfectly with uncooked dishes, Parmesan cheese, fruit (try it on strawberries!), ice cream and other desserts. To be used in drops! The beautiful bottle and presentation box make this a fabulous, prized gift for any occasion. Will keep for years.

White Truffle Oil (250ml) - Extra Virgin Olive Oil infused with white truffle. The white truffle is one of the most outstanding and sought after ingredients in world cuisine. This special oil will give any dish the lovely full aroma of the white truffle quickly and easily. Use it in preparation of food or as a condiment once the dish is ready.

Tuscan IGP Extra Virgin Olive Oil (500ml) - Another Great Taste Gold Award winner. A premium quality Tuscan IGP Extra Virgin Olive Oil from a cooperative of small farms around San Gimignano in the heart of Tuscany. Produced from a blend of organically grown (although not certified) classic Tuscan olive varieties: Frantoio, Moraiolo and Leccino it has an incredibly low acidity level 0.2%. Toscano IGP oils are typically crisp and full of flavour. It has a lovely golden yellow with strong green tones and a super olive fruit flavour characterised by artichoke, cardoon, with notes of almond and green leaf. The oil has a perfect balance of bitterness (bitterness is an important characteristic in a good olive oil) and nice piquant finish. Very versatile, it is perfect for garnishing salads and vegetables, great on fish and meat or why not try drizzling it over bread before topping with some diced tomatoes, onions and garlic. Most Tuscans would have it on its own over crusty bread or with pinzimonia (raw vegetables as a starter). Delicious!

2006 Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva Pontignanello (750ml) - Experts agree this is Sangiovese expression at its best. Expert hands, perfect location in the soft rolling hills of Chianti means this Chianti Classico Riserva will satisfy even the most demanding tastes. 15 days in stainless steel then a second fermentation in cement tanks before maturing for 2 years in oak casks. A further 6 months resting in the bottle to produce a refined and elegant red wine, full of structure and character. A true world-beater. Ideal for strong flavoured first courses, game, aged cheeses and full flavoured exotic dishes.

Spumante Rosé DOC (750ml) - Distinctive and refreshing. A dry and fruity sparkling Rosé wine for any occasion. Produced from Marzemino and Prosecco grapes.

Chocolate Rusty Tools (150g) - Slitti chocolate products have reached cult status in the world of chocolate. He has won many awards including the coveted best-chocolate maker in Italy 2008 and his stunning creations have pushed the boundaries of chocolate making. This sensational toolbox includes a lifesize screwdriver and hammer and comes in its own beautiful presentation box. Made from top quality chocolate and finished with pure cocoa powder for the rusty look.

Handwrapped Luxury Panettone from Sicily (500g) - Quite simply, these are the best panettone we have ever tasted (and we've tried a lot!). Extraordinarily light and moist with delicious fresh candied oranges from Sicily and sultanas bathed in aromatic Marsala and Zibibbo wines. It is made by the Fiasconaro brothers in Sicily, for generations, a family owned artisan bakery. The 3 brothers who run the bakery now still rigorously uphold the local artisan traditions of their father and grandfather. This is slowfood at its best - each cake taking nearly 4 days to bake!

Anchovy Fillets from Naples (300g) - Anchovies are a true specialty around Mediterranean fishing areas and really hit their peak off the Southern coast of Italy. These are tender anchovies soaked in a delicous and subtle oil making them perfect as an antipasto dish but also ideal for a range of dishes, such as a rice and anchovy salad; Spaghetti del Marinaio; Lamb alla Cacciatora; or as a simple pizza topping.

Sweet Montepulciano Grape Condiment (130ml) - Mishticott is an ancient traditional product from Abruzzo. It is made by very slowly boiling Montepulciano grapes to produce a dense syrup with a wonderful intense fruit flavour. It is perfectly natural, is full of Vitamins and minerals and has thousands of uses as well! It's exquisite on icecream, in fruit salads and adds a refined fruit flavour to cakes. Try it as a base for granitas or summer drinks. Excellent as a salad dressing or as a marinade for red and white meats. It can also be used as a natural sweetener. Great for kid and adults alike. Be careful though, once you've tried it, you'll want more! 100% Natural Cooked Grape Must.

Dragées by Andrea Slitti (160g) - These chocolate Dragées combine Italy's finest hazelnuts and almonds which are covered in a unique pure blend of milk and dark chocolate. World-famous aromatic hazelnuts from the Langhe area of Piedmont and sweet almonds from Puglia really stand out in this original, gourmet product. They are coated with a special blend of milk and dark chocolate (60% cocoa) and finished with a sprinkling of extra-fine cocoa powder. Made by cratsman and artist, Andrea Slitti (Italian chocolatier of the year) in his workshop near Pistoia in Tuscany. They come in a wonderfully decorated presentation box.

Bucatini - Artisan Pasta from Naples (500g) - Winner of Gold at the Great Taste Awards! High quality artisan pasta from Naples. Bucatini pasta is like thick, hollow spaghetti and is perfect for rich tomato or cream sauces also excellent with olive oil based sauces as well. Try it with spicy sausage, all'Amatriciana, with mushrooms, great with shrimps and anchovies and often used instead of Spaghetti in Carbonara. The pasta is drawn through bronze moulds to produce a rough surface which grabs the sauce and binds to it. It is then dried very slowly at low temperatures to maintain all of its natural taste and goodness.

Carnaroli Rice in Cloth Bag from Vercelli (1kg) - From one of the best rice growing regions in the world. The king of Italian rice! Most consider Carnaroli to be the best variety of Italian rice since it maintains its firmness and loses very little of its starch content. This means it absorbs flavours better than other rices while maintaining its shape and all its natural goodness. Carnaroli is the favourite rice of chefs around the world for risottos. This rice comes in a lovely cloth bag which looks so at home in this hamper.

Tuna & Orange Paté (180g) - This tuna and orange paté proves how simple ingredients can create something elegant and refined. Featuring red Mediterranean tuna, Sicilian oranges and extra-virgin olive oil from the producer's own estate, it also demonstrates how fundamental elements of the Mediterranean diet can combine to produce unusual and delicious foods. Prepared by expert hands, following ancient artisan methods and recipes, this paté remains faithful to the traditions of the island. Local aromatic herbs are used to enhance the wonderful fragrance and depth of flavours within the paté.

Ground Bottarga - Mediterranean Caviar (50g) - Bottarga is a prized delicacy sometimes known as the Caviar of the Med. It is made by drying and curing fish roe, in this case tuna. The drying process and curing with sea salt takes place over several weeks. Its taste is intense and just a small amount will impart a magnificent seafood flavour with hints of smoked fish. Bottarga is now found in many top restaurants as chefs are discovering its unique ability to transform a simple fish dish into a masterpiece. This ground bottarga couldn't be easier to use - Just sprinkle it on as a seasoning - and remember, you only need a little to really heighten the other flavours. It can be used on thousands of dishes.

Gourmet Sicilian Sea salt and Herbs Mix (300g) - Precious Trapani sea salt has been expertly blended with specially selected aromatic Mediterranean herbs and spices to provide a wonderful finishing condiment for all fish dishes and grilled meat. A perfectly balanced seasoning which will enhance and invigorate. Siciliy's White Gold! Sea salt from Trapani is renowned as one of the world's finest.

A fantastic combination of quality Tuscan cured meats by Gelli Salumeria from near San Gimignano. Made with traditional recipes and artisan production methods, every mouthful is full of Tuscan flavour. Presented in a decorative gift box (Gold or Red) filled with multi-coloured shred. NB. IMPORTANT - Please read how to order and arrange delivery in the orange box at the bottom. Also, please note that this gift contains items that will need to be chilled once delivery has been made.

WHAT'S IN THE BOX

Pancetta (350g approx) - This is the real stuff! Tuscan Pancetta is perfect for classic dishes like Carbonara but also adds flavour to hundreds of other sauces or soffriti. Just dice and fry! The Pancetta is cured with Tuscan spices and plenty of black pepper and the meat comes from the Tuscan cinta which is renowned for its sweetness and aromatic quality. Double Gold winner at the Great Taste Awards - The best in the country!

Wild Boar Sausages (200g approx) - Wild Boar is Italy's favourite game meat and in these gourmet sausages, Gelli uses only the best wild boar and pork meat to produce a sausage that is tender and beautifully seasoned. This is perfect to garnish salads, to eat by itself or with other starters or as a base for pasta sauces. The meat is lean and full of proteins. These are produced by artisans and weights can vary slightly.

Milano Salami (450g approx) - A favourite in every kitchen. The salami is fine grained and very tender. Made from best quality pork and cured using ancient timeless recipes, the result is a great salami with a delicate yet meaty and persistent taste. Great as an antipasti or served alongside hard cheeses.

Napoli Sausage (750g approx) - The Salsicca Napoli is Italy's version of Chorizo and is our best selling salami. The rich pork meat is cured with red chillis and the result is a superb example of spicy sausage. It tastes delicious and the chilli heat very slowly builds up delivering a fine crescendo at the finale. It is ideal with jambalaya, paella, tomato based pasta dishes or on an antipasti platter.

Who would you buy it for?

Cured meat lovers everywhere!

Italian handmade chocolates and artisan quality ground espresso coffee from Slitti in Pistoia. A wonderful gift collection and after dinner treat. Presented in a decorative Gift box (Red or Gold) filled with multi-coloured shred. NB. IMPORTANT - Please read how to order and arrange delivery in the orange box at the bottom

WHAT'S IN THE BOX

Chocolate Coffee Spoons by Slitti - Slitti Chocolate spoons have reached cult status in the world of chocolate. Developed by Andrea Slitti in 1993 they have been imitated many times over the years. It is thanks to their original recipe and production process (which still remains a closely guarded secret) that makes them the original and true coffee spoons par excellence. Pack of 6 spoons.

Lattenero Pure Finest Italian Milk Chocolate 45% (100g) - Pure, very fine Italian milk chocolate with a high content of cocoa. It will satisfy even the most demanding of chocolate lovers - kids and adults alike!

Gran Cacao Finest Italian Dark Chocolate 73% (100g) - Gran Cacao is a secret blend of some of the finest cacaos available. Its balanced acidity, blending and flavour make it a truly great chocolate.

Chocolate Dragées in gift box (160g) -These chocolate Dragées combine Italy's finest hazelnuts and almonds which are coated with a special blend of milk and dark chocolate (60% cocoa) and finished with a sprinkling of extra-fine cocoa powder. Made by cratsman and artist, Andrea Slitti (Italian chocolatier of the year) in his workshop near Pistoia in Tuscany.

Organic Fairtrade Haitian Coffee (250g) - The Arabica and Robusta beans are handpicked in Haiti and expertly blended and roasted by the Pascutti Roasting Company in Umbria. The result is a rich aromatic blend that is both creamy and smooth with a delicious aftertaste, perfect for espresso or capuccino. The beans are grown organically and to ensure fair trade for the local growers, they take a share of all profits.

Who Would You Buy it For?

Delightful gift for chocolate lovers and for anyone who prefers their coffee Italian style.