The ancients called Italy “Enotria,” or “Land of Wine,” for good reason. With an ideal climate for viticulture, it vies with France as the world’s top wine producer. And while several international varieties grow well there, it’s truly the 400 or so indigenous grapes that truly make Italy remarkable. One of Italy’s lesser known, but no less historic, regions is Le Marche, located in central Italy. Let’s learn about this stunning region and discover the native grapes that make wine from Le Marche so sought after.
Where the North Begins
Located on the Adriatic coast, Le Marche features 5 DOCG’s and 15 DOCs, or quality wine producing regions. The area has become well-known for its white wines produced from the Verdicchio grape, as well as other white varieties including Pecorino. Montepulciano and Sangioviese are the leading red varieties and wines produced from these grapes share many characteristics with the wines of Tuscany, directly to the North. Le Marche’s best-known wines are: Castelli di Jesi Verdicchio Riserva, DOCG and Verdicchio di Matelica Riserva DOCG, which are crisp but neutral white wines made with Verdicchio; Conero DOCG and Rosso Conero DOC red wines from a small area blending Montepulciano and Sangiovese grapes akin to Tuscany; and Rosso Piceno DOC: a red blend that also includes Montepulciano and Sangiovese.
A Female Le Marche Legacy
For an exceptional representation of Le Marche’s terroir discover Velenosi Vini, a winery which was established in 1984 by two young entrepreneurs, Angela and Ercole Velenosi. Over 35 years of experience and passion have resulted in outstanding wines expressing typicity of the region. The mother-daughter team of Angela and Marianna Velenosi are now at the helm and continuing not only the legacy of their own winery, but also elevating the region as a whole. You may not have heard of Le Marche, but if you love authentic, vibrant, and the best of Italy’s indigenous grapes, this central Italian wine region is ideal. Refreshing, crisp whites perfect for seafood, and luscious red blends just beckon to be paired!
Learn more about Velenosi Vini here.
