Marche

Marche is located on the Adriatic coast. The Capital is Ancona.

Marche, also known as the Marches in English, is a wine region located in central Italy along the Adriatic coast. Nestled between the Apennine Mountains and the Adriatic Sea, Marche is characterized by its diverse geography, which includes hills, valleys, and coastal plains.

The region has a rich history of winemaking, and its wines are gaining recognition for their quality and distinctive characteristics.

Palazzo Ducale, Urbino (Marche)

Climate

Marche's varied topography influences its climate, which ranges from a Mediterranean climate along the coast to a more continental climate in the inland hilly areas.

The Adriatic Sea has a moderating effect on temperatures, contributing to milder winters and warm summers.

Grapes

Marche is known for its indigenous grape varieties, producing both red and white wines.

Verdicchio is the signature grape of the region, producing fresh, crisp, and citrusy white wines.

Montepulciano is the primary red grape.

Verdicchio

Verdicchio is the most famous white grape in Marche, and it is often associated with high-quality white wines.

Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi and Verdicchio di Matelica are two important Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) regions known for producing Verdicchio wines. These wines can range from light and zesty to more structured and age-worthy versions.

Montepulciano

Montepulciano is the primary red grape in Marche, known for producing robust and fruit-forward red wines.

The wines are often characterized by dark fruit flavors, moderate tannins, and a velvety texture. Rosso Conero and Rosso Piceno are two DOCs in Marche where Montepulciano is commonly used.

Lacrima di Morro d'Alba

Another interesting red grape in Marche is Lacrima, which is used to produce Lacrima di Morro d'Alba wines. These wines are known for their aromatic and floral characteristics, displaying notes of violets and roses.

Food Pairing

Marche's wines complement the regional cuisine, which includes a variety of seafood dishes from the Adriatic, hearty pasta dishes, and grilled meats. Verdicchio pairs well with seafood, while Montepulciano-based reds are better enjoyed with meat-based dishes.