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		6 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Numerator for basic earnings per share
Net income attributable to Universal Corporation	$ 25,444	$ 47,981	$ 83,753	$ 71,106
Less: Dividends on convertible perpetual preferred stock	(3,713)	(3,713)	(7,425)	(7,425)
Earnings available to Universal Corporation common shareholders	21,731	44,268	76,328	63,681
Denominator for basic earnings per share
Weighted average shares outstanding	23,207	23,379	23,262	23,338
Basic earnings per share	$ 0.94	$ 1.89	$ 3.28	$ 2.73
Numerator for diluted earnings per share
Earnings available to Universal Corporation common shareholders	21,731	44,268	76,328	63,681
Add: Dividends on convertible perpetual preferred stock (if conversion assumed)	3,713	3,713	7,425	7,425
Earnings available to Universal Corporation common shareholders for calculation of diluted earnings per share	$ 25,444	$ 47,981	$ 83,753	$ 71,106
Denominator for diluted earnings per share:
Weighted average shares outstanding	23,207	23,379	23,262	23,338
Effect of dilutive securities (if conversion or exercise assumed):
Convertible perpetual preferred stock	4,818	4,794	4,815	4,791
Employee share-based awards	311	328	324	317
Denominator for diluted earnings per share	28,336	28,501	28,401	28,446
Diluted earnings per share	$ 0.90	$ 1.68	$ 2.95	$ 2.50