Marche
Marche is an emerging wine region with a rich winemaking history that dates back to ancient times, including evidence of viticulture during the Roman era.
The most notable white grape variety in Marche is Verdicchio, and its flagship wine is Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi. This wine, crafted in the hills surrounding Jesi, is celebrated for its vibrant acidity, crisp minerality, and complex notes of citrus, green apple, and almonds.
Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi is available in various styles, ranging from young and fresh to more intricate, oak-aged versions. The “Classico” designation refers to wines produced from the original hilly areas of the appellation, often regarded as the highest quality.
Pecorino, famously associated with the well-known Italian cheese, is also a vibrant and versatile white wine with strong ties to the Marche and Abruzzo regions. Made from a resilient grape that flourishes in the cooler, mountainous landscapes of Italy’s Adriatic coast, this wine offers a complex aroma and taste profile, featuring notes of acacia, lime, and a subtle minerality.
Once overlooked and relegated to table wine, Pecorino has now emerged as a sophisticated option, ideal for pairing with a wide array of dishes, from traditional Italian cuisine to international fare. Its unique ability to age gracefully and its above-average alcohol content lend it the nickname “red dressed in white,” providing both structure and a refreshing quality.
In the southern part of the region, Vernaccia di Serrapetrona is produced using a unique traditional triple-fermentation process known as the “Metodo Martinotti” or “Charmat Method,” typically used for sparkling wines. This involves a second fermentation in stainless steel tanks that gives this wine its signature fizz.
Often referred to as a microcosm of Italy, Marche is an extraordinary hidden gem for wine enthusiasts looking to escape the bustling tourist spots of Tuscany or Sicily.
Are you interested in meeting the local winemakers behind this burgeoning wine region and enjoying a glass of wine while overlooking rows of endless vineyards? This experience, along with much more, is part of Italy’s Epicurean Journey, located in Ascoli Piceno, a city that predates Rome!
