Though they tend to fly under the radar, the wines of Le Marche warrant attention. Located on the Adriatic Coast between Emilia-Romagna and Abruzzo, the region is relatively unsung on a global scale – the region's greatness is no secret to anyone who lives in Italy. Its food is incredible, and so are the wines.
Viticulture in Le Marche dates back to the Etruscan era (900 - 27 BC), origins that were acknowledged in the 1950s. Architect Antonio Maiocchi designed a bottle in the shape of an amphora for Fazi Battaglia Verdicchio, which brought more attention to the wine on a global level. Even today, Verdicchio is still the region's most important grape. It's grown in the Castelli di Jesi area and produces optimal whites that are capable of aging for many years.
Other indigenous white grape varieties are Ribona (the name means "twice as good"), which results in fragrant and fresh still wines, and interesting classic method sparkling wines. The Bianchello del Metauro DOC is known for Pecorino and Passerina, which is also grown in neighboring Abruzzo. These grapes produce fruity, light, and easy-drinking wines.
Among the native red grapes, Morro d’Alba's Lacrima produces soft and aromatic reds, while the black Vernaccia or Serrapetrona is more versatile, vinified dry, sweet, and sparkling. Rosso Piceno, Rosso Conero, and Rosso Offida are blends of Montepulciano and Sangiovese, robust and full-bodied wines suitable for meats and first courses with hearty sauces. The area to keep an eye on is that of the Pesaresi Hills, known for pleasant reds made from Sangiovese and Pinot Noir.
Here are four wines of Le Marche to keep an eye out for.
1. Ciù Ciù Rosso Piceno Superiore Gothic 2016
Made from Montepulciano and Sangiovese grapes grown organically on the hills of Ascoli Piceno, this robust and velvety red has intense red fruit aromas. Pair it with braised meat. website
2. Fazi Battaglia Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico Superiore Massaccio 2018
From the vineyards of Cupramontana, this wide and enveloping white is characterized by the aromas of ripe fruit, anise, and Mediterranean herbs. Have it alongside sea bream with fennel and citrus. website
3. Lacrima di Morro d’Alba Superiore 2018 Stefano Mancinelli
This red has intense floral aromas and spicy, soft, and persistent flavor. Have it with vincisgrassi, a lasagna from Le Marche with meat sauce, or any kind of meaty lasagna. website
4. Verdicchio Spumante Brut Le Cuvée Rocca dei Forti
This sparkling version of the region's emblematic white grape variety is fragrant and fresh. It's perfect to sip with a fritto misto. website