Earnings Per Share (Computation Of Basic And Diluted Earnings Per Share) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data	3 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2010
Numerator for basic earnings per share
Net income attributable to Universal Corporation	$ 15,888	$ 25,320
Less: Dividends on convertible perpetual preferred stock	(3,712)	(3,712)
Earnings available to Universal Corporation common shareholders for calculation of basic earnings per share	12,176	21,608
Denominator for basic earnings per share
Weighted average shares outstanding	23,194	24,213
Basic earnings per share	$ 0.52	$ 0.89
Numerator for diluted earnings per share
Earnings available to Universal Corporation common shareholders	12,176	21,608
Add: Dividends on convertible perpetual preferred stock (if conversion assumed)		3,712
Earnings available to Universal Corporation common shareholders for calculation of diluted earnings per share	$ 12,176	$ 25,320
Denominator for diluted earnings per share:
Weighted average shares outstanding	23,194	24,213
Effect of dilutive securities (if conversion or exercise assumed)
Convertible perpetual preferred stock		4,742
Employee share-based awards	319	260
Denominator for diluted earnings per share	23,513	29,215
Diluted earnings per share	$ 0.52	$ 0.87