Marche: Italy's Undiscovered Wine Region
Overlooked by many, Le Marche is a hidden gem in the Italian wine world. Nestled along the Adriatic coast in central Italy, this region boasts a diverse landscape of rolling hills, mountains, and coastal plains, resulting in a fascinating array of wines.
A Rich History
Winemaking in Le Marche dates back to ancient times, with evidence of viticulture dating back to the Piceni people. The region's strategic location along the Adriatic coast facilitated trade and cultural exchange, influencing its winemaking traditions over centuries.
Diverse Terroir
Le Marche's varied terrain and microclimates contribute to the diversity of its wines.
- Coastal Areas: The Adriatic influence provides cooling breezes and moderates temperatures, ideal for white varieties and lighter-bodied reds.
- Hilly Areas: The rolling hills inland offer excellent sun exposure and drainage, perfect for cultivating red grapes.
- Mountain Areas: The higher altitudes of the Apennine Mountains provide cooler temperatures and unique soil compositions, resulting in wines with distinct character.
Key Grape Varieties
Le Marche is home to both indigenous and international grape varieties. Some of the most important include:
- Verdicchio: This native white grape is the region's star, producing crisp, dry wines with aromas of citrus, green apple, and almond. Look for Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi and Verdicchio di Matelica.
- Montepulciano: This widely planted red grape produces full-bodied wines with dark fruit flavors, firm tannins, and notes of spice. Rosso Conero is the region's most renowned Montepulciano-based wine.
- Sangiovese: While more associated with Tuscany, Sangiovese thrives in Le Marche, producing elegant reds with bright acidity and cherry flavors.
- Lacrima di Morro d'Alba: This unique red grape produces aromatic wines with notes of rose petals, violets, and red berries.
Beyond the Usual Suspects
While Verdicchio and Rosso Conero are the most well-known wines from Le Marche, the region offers a wealth of other exciting discoveries. Explore the sparkling wines made with Verdicchio, the elegant whites from Pecorino, and the intriguing reds from Passerina.
A Region to Explore
Le Marche offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Beyond the wines, visitors can explore charming medieval towns, indulge in delicious seafood, and enjoy the stunning scenery of the Adriatic coastline and the Apennine Mountains.
