Earnings Per Share (Computation Of Basic And Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012
Numerator for basic earnings per share
Net income attributable to Universal Corporation	$ 58,309	$ 23,125
Less: Dividends on convertible perpetual preferred stock	(3,712)	(3,712)
Earnings available to Universal Corporation common shareholders	54,597	19,413
Denominator for basic earnings per share
Weighted average shares outstanding	23,317	23,297
Basic earnings per share	$ 2.34	$ 0.83
Numerator for diluted earnings per share
Earnings available to Universal Corporation common shareholders	54,597	19,413
Add: Dividends on convertible perpetual preferred stock (if conversion assumed)	3,712	3,712
Earnings available to Universal Corporation common shareholders for calculation of diluted earnings per share	$ 58,309	$ 23,125
Denominator for diluted earnings per share:
Weighted average shares outstanding	23,317	23,297
Effect of dilutive securities (if conversion or exercise assumed):
Convertible perpetual preferred stock	4,812	4,788
Employee share-based awards	336	306
Denominator for diluted earnings per share	28,465	28,391
Diluted earnings per share	$ 2.05	$ 0.81