zeppole

Franco, no -- I only occasionally get the wine over here. (Liguria has a cheese aged in a local red called "Divino" and it is nice!) Maybe I'll get lucky when I'm in the Veneto, whizzing by Custoza on my way to Cremona from Vicenza.

Jen158,

What about Bassano del Grappa-Asolo?

zoecat

I agree with zeppole- Spoleto would be a great choice. In fact, I think it is the perfect choice. It has everything you are looking for and it is lovely. Using trains or buses or a car would allow you to enjoy day trips. There is also some nice hiking in the area. It is a quick train ride from Rome and there are car rental offices in Spoleto.

I highly recommend the Touring Club of Italy Umbria guidebook. It contains some great info and itineraries.

http://www.amazon.com/Umbria-Heritag.../dp/8836528376

elnap29

Well, zeppole and franco, I am really enjoying your chit-chat. We are in the infant stages of planning a trip in Spring 2011 with no clear idea where we want to go. I didn't think we needed to be concerned about wine-growing regions, since we live in one, but you've changed my mind. Thanks. I may post my own questions in the near future. And I'll enjoy reading of your plans, too, jen 158.

Jen158

Thanks a lot on the suggestions (and the side chatter too!). I think Spoleto will be my best bet.