Marche
Marche forms a triangular area bordered by the Apennine Mountains to the west and the Adriatic Sea to the east, finds itself in proximity to Emilia-Romagna, Abruzzo, and Umbria. Due to its topography of rolling coastal hills and diverse climatic influences from the Apennines, Adriatic Sea, and regional rivers, the terroirs are very differenct and favourable to a diversity of wines and winestyles.
Other regions
Grapes in wines from Marche
Marche’s diverse array of white wines extends beyond Verdicchio, encompassing Bianchello del Metauro, Pinot Bianco, Malvasia Toscana, and Pecorino. Undoubtedly, Pecorino (the white wine grape, not the cheese) is a very special discovery, but Verdicchio is the most widely available. This region is home to the emerging Lacrima grape, which produces lively, fruity wines that evoked memories of Syrah.
Meanwhile, its notable reds, predominantly crafted from Montepulciano and Sangiovese grapes. Together, they form the deeply fragrant Rosso Conero Riserva, which is the dominant red in central Italy. Ciliegiolo, Pinot Nero, Lacrima di Morro, and most importantly, Vernaccia Nera, support them. The latter is utilized in Vernaccia di Serrapetrona, a sparkling DOCG wine.
Classifications of Marche wines
Marche's viticultural landscape offers a rich tapestry of red and white wines. The region's production, with a majority classified under Marche IGT, while 20% holds DOC and DOCG designations. Among the best Marche wines, notable regions include:
- Colli Maceratesi DOC. Situated in the southern part of Marche, specifically across the Macerata province, Colli Maceratesi DOC wines maintain popularity within the region itself. While seldom venturing beyond regional borders, this area offers an extensive range of white, sparkling, red, and passito wines.
- Rosso Piceno DOC. The ancient Picenum region has long been esteemed for its high-quality wines, tracing back to the Roman Empire's era. Today, Rosso Piceno vineyards, perched atop hillsides exceeding 700 meters above sea level, produce renowned red wine varieties predominantly from Montepulciano and Sangiovese grapes.
- Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi DOCG. Renowned for crafting Marche's most celebrated white wine, Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi, this region lies on the hillsides west of Ancona. Verdicchio remains the primary grape, occasionally complemented by Malvasia. However, winemakers in Castelli di Jesi and Matelica have transcended Verdicchio beyond typical white wines. Their expertise extends beyond the distinct bottle shape, encompassing precise harvest timing and vinification methods, crafting a captivatingly diverse wine.
