Wines of Marche

The rolling hills between the Apennine Mountains and the Adriatic Sea have the ideal growing conditions for grapes. Marche has been making notable wines for centuries, and the best are from the varietals native to this area- grapes that aren't found in other parts of Italy. Some of the wines that you should try while visiting the region are listed here. There are many excellent family-run wineries that will offer tastings and tours of the winery, so be sure to drive around the countryside to seek them out. (You'll discover some beautiful hill towns, panoramas and country restaurants in the process!)

WHITES

Bianchello del Metauro. In the gentle hills near the Adriatic along the Metauro River valley, there are 18 towns that make up the DOC-designated zone for this wine. The grape has been grown here since at least 500 BC. It makes a dry, delicate wine with peach tones.

Verdicchio. This white has long been synonymous with Le Marche. The two versions are from Jesi and Matelica. It is vinted as both still and sparkling wine, both with dry fruit, white flowers and anise in the nose and taste.

Passerina. Decisive floral bouquet with apricot and almond hints on the palate, Passerina is an indigenous grape that is gaining more ground in recent years in the hills along the Marche and Abruzzo border.

Pecorino. A unique vintage that has ancient origins in Le Marche. Structured and strong alcohol allow it to stand up to heavier dishes than most whites. The aroma has hints of the cheese that give it the name, along with herbal, apple and vanilla tones.

Falerio dei Colli Ascolani. A blend of Passerina and Pecorino, this DOC is found in the province of Ascoli Piceno. Fresh fruit nose with peach and apple hints, and the characteristics of the two grapes that make the vintage; structured and full bodied.

REDS

Lacrima di Morro d'Alba. Strong scent of violet and berries, the ruby hue and medium body make this a winner with everybody. Flavors of the grape, strawberry and prune.

Montepulciano Marchigiano. Similar grape stock as the Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, it shares the characteristics of its neighboring region's varietal with ruby hue and cherry notes, full bodied and balanced.

Sangiovese. Deep ruby color, this well-rounded wine is one of the most diffuse in Italy. The Marche version is similar to most, with strawberry and mature cherry flavors.

Vernaccia Rossa di Pergola. A unique wine that is one of the few sparkling reds made in Italy. Made from the red Vernaccia varietal, sometimes called Vernaccia Nera, it is a highly fragrant wine that comes in dry and semi-sweet versions.

Rosso Piceno. The DOC red from the hills around Ascoli Piceno is made from a blend of Montepulciano and Sangiovese grapes, to create a vintage with good body and fruit. Cherry, grape, and violet come through in this well-balanced blend.