Marche

• Verdicchio: Marche’s signature white grape, known for vibrant acidity, citrus and green apple flavors, herbal notes, and a classic bitter almond finish; evolves into honeyed, nutty, mineral-driven wines with age.
• Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi: Softer, rounder, and fruit-forward expressions of Verdicchio, often approachable young; “Riserva” versions are complex and age-worthy.
• Verdicchio di Matelica: Crisp, mineral-laden, and intensely structured whites with pronounced acidity, showing remarkable longevity and depth.
• Pecorino: Aromatic and full-bodied, offering rich flavors with moderate acidity; shines in Offida DOCG.
• Passerina: Fresh, vibrant, and lively white wines, also prominent in Offida.
• Bianchello (Biancame): Delicate, floral-driven whites from the north, especially Bianchello del Metauro DOC.
• Rosso Conero: Montepulciano-based reds that are robust, full-bodied, and age-worthy, with black cherry, herbs, licorice, and tobacco notes.
• Rosso Piceno: Supple, food-friendly blends of Montepulciano and Sangiovese, featuring bright red fruit and smooth tannins; “Superiore” denotes higher quality and longer aging.
• Lacrima di Morro d'Alba: Intensely aromatic reds bursting with rose, violet, and wild berry aromas—unique to this small area north of Jesi.
• Vernaccia di Serrapetrona: Rare, sparkling red made from Vernaccia Nera; triple-fermented for complexity, offering semi-sparkling texture and intriguing depth.

Marche is at the forefront of sustainable winemaking in Italy, driven by passionate producers who embrace eco-friendly practices as a core belief. Unlike other regions with formalized sustainability programs, Marche's commitment is rooted in the personal philosophies of its winemakers, who often seek global certifications like USDA Organic and Demeter. This grassroots approach highlights the region's dedication to preserving its rich terroir and ensuring the longevity of its vineyards, leading to wines that are not only unique but also environmentally responsible. The region is a hub for organic and biodynamic farming, with many vineyards treating their land as self-sustaining ecosystems. Winemakers in Marche utilize minimal intervention methods, such as spontaneous fermentations and little to no added sulfur, to create wines with purity and energy. This dedication to sustainability is evident across the region's vineyards, where winemakers act as stewards of the land, honoring both the environment and future generations. Their efforts ensure that Marche's wines continue to reflect the vibrant character and complexity of the region's unique microclimates and diverse grape varieties.

Marche's wine tourism offers a journey into authenticity, where the focus is on building genuine connections with both the winemakers and the land. This region stands out as a hidden gem, providing a refreshing alternative to Italy's more bustling wine routes. Visitors can engage in a variety of activities that extend beyond traditional wine tasting, such as hiking through vineyards, enjoying picnics among the vines, and participating in cooking classes. Unique experiences, like combining yoga with wine or embarking on truffle hunts followed by wine-paired meals, showcase Marche's blend of tradition and modernity. The best time to explore Marche's wine routes is during May, June, and September, as the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are lush. Despite the wine routes being less clearly marked than in other regions, several well-established itineraries guide visitors through the area's diverse offerings. Whether it's driving through the Verdicchio Wine Road, exploring the coastal Conero Riviera, or delving into the aromatic world of Lacrima along the Morro d'Alba Walk, each journey reveals the region's rich wine culture. Festivals like Cantine Aperte add to the allure, offering special tastings and events that celebrate Marche's vibrant wine and food traditions.