Le Marche, Italy’s Most Beautiful Wine Region
Le Marche is one of Italy’s most diverse and still relatively undiscovered wine regions. Between the Adriatic coast and the Apennine Mountains, you will find rolling vineyards, historic villages and a surprising variety of white, red and sparkling wines.
Villa Verdicchio is located in Cupramontana, in the heart of the Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi wine region. From our B&B, you can discover small-scale wineries, distinctive grape varieties and the authentic wine culture of Le Marche.
Why is Le Marche such a special wine region?
Compact and surprisingly diverse
Dozens of different wine regions and hundreds of wineries can be found within a relatively small area. This means that during a single wine trip, you can discover a wide variety of wines, landscapes and producers.
Stay in the heart of the Verdicchio region
Villa Verdicchio is located in Cupramontana, one of the most important towns within the Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi wine region. From our B&B, you can easily reach numerous wineries, historic villages and the Adriatic coast.
A wine landscape between the mountains and the sea
Vineyards, olive groves, wheat fields and sunflowers combine to create the characteristic landscape of Le Marche. Differences in altitude, soil and distance from the sea produce wines with remarkably varied personalities.
Exceptional white and red wines
Le Marche is best known for Verdicchio, but lovers of red and sparkling wines will also find plenty to discover. These include Lacrima, Montepulciano, Vernaccia Nera, Pecorino and Passerina.
SMALL-SCALE WINERIES,MEET THE WINEMAKER
This wine region is known for its small, family-run wineries. Here, everything revolves around passion, craftsmanship and tradition rather than mass production.
Every bottle tells a story, from the careful cultivation of the grapes to the winemaking process.
You will have the opportunity to meet the producers themselves and experience their personal approach. We enjoyed tasting delicious wines at Cantina Sparapani in Cupramontana.
The DOC and DOCG wine regions of Le Marche
Le Marche has 15 DOC and 5 DOCG appellations. The numbers in the legend below refer to the wine regions shown on the adjacent map.
D.O.C. (15)
3. Bianchello del Metauro.
4. Colli Maceratesi.
5. Colli Pesaresi.
6. Esino.
7. Falerio dei Colli Ascolani of Falerio.
8. Lacrima di Morro d’Alba.
9. Terre di Offida.
10. Rosso Conero.
11. Rosso Piceno of Piceno.
12. Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi.
13. Verdicchio di Matelica.
14. Serrapetrona.
15. I Terreni di Sanseverino.
16. Pergola.
17. San Ginesio.
D.O.C.G. (5)
1. Conero.
2. Vernaccia di Serrapetrona.
18. Castelli di Jesi Verdicchio Riserva.
19. Verdicchio di Matelica Riserva.
20. Offida.
WHAT ARE THE DOC AND DOCG WINE REGIONS OF LE MARCHE?
DOC Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi
Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi DOC is the most important appellation in Le Marche and takes its name from the town of Jesi. The grapes have been cultivated for centuries in the rolling Esino Valley, in the provinces of Ancona and Macerata.
The wines combine elegance with minerality, ripe fruit and fresh acidity, including in fuller and more structured styles. Cupramontana is regarded as the capital of this wine region.
DOCG Castelli di Jesi Verdicchio Riserva
Castelli di Jesi Verdicchio Riserva DOCG is the Riserva category of Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi DOC and was awarded DOCG status in 2010. This superior category accounts for only a small proportion of the total production.
The wine must contain at least 85% Verdicchio. In addition, the Riserva wines must mature for at least 18 months, including a minimum of six months in the bottle, before they can be released for sale.
DOC Verdicchio di Matelica
Verdicchio di Matelica has been a DOC appellation since 1967 and is located in the south-west of Le Marche. The grapes are cultivated in the Esino Valley, around Matelica and as far as the municipality of Fabriano.
The wine region lies further inland and at a higher altitude than Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi, on a valley plateau at the foot of the Apennines. The mineral-rich soil and cooler location create a unique terroir.
The grapes ripen more slowly here and are generally harvested at least ten days later than those around Jesi. As a result, Verdicchio di Matelica usually has more structure and a particularly pronounced minerality.
DOCG Verdicchio di Matelica riserva
In 2010, Verdicchio di Matelica Riserva was awarded DOCG status. As with Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi, the regular DOC permits the production of sparkling wines and sweet passito wines alongside the standard Matelica Verdicchio wines. These styles are not permitted within the DOCG. The Riserva must mature for at least 18 months before it can be released for sale.
Bianchello del Metauro DOC and several other DOC wine regions
The region’s second major white wine is Bianchello del Metauro DOC. It is made from the rare Bianchello grape variety, which originates in the province of Pesaro and Urbino. The wine has a light, pale-yellow colour, an intense peach aroma and plenty of freshness.
There is also Colli Pesaresi DOC, made from the originally Tuscan white Trebbiano Toscano grape and, in its red version, from Sangiovese.
Pergola DOC benefits from the muscat-like aromas of the introduced Aleatico grape.
The hills around Macerata produce the fresh white wines of Colli Maceratesi DOC. Their bouquet is reminiscent of Verdicchio because the Maceratino grape is believed to have developed from the Verdicchio grape in ancient times.
The red wine from this appellation and San Ginesio DOC both contain 50% Sangiovese.
DOC Terre di Offida
Terre di Offida DOC originally developed as part of the Offida DOC appellation, which was established in 2001. For the white wines, Pecorino and Passerina were the only two permitted principal grape varieties.
Since 2011, only Passerina may be used as the principal grape variety, making up at least 85% of the wine. It may also be produced as passito, Vin Santo or spumante.
DOCG Offida
Offida DOCG is a relatively recent top-level appellation that developed from the former Offida DOC in 2011.
The DOCG takes its name from the town of Offida, a settlement dating back to the Stone Age and located at the heart of the historic Piceno civilisation.
The DOCG largely adopted the regulations of the former DOC and covers three wine styles: Offida Rosso, Offida Passerina and Offida Pecorino.
Falerio dei Colli Ascolani DOC
Falerio dei Colli Ascolani DOC also uses Pecorino and Passerina grapes. They may be blended with Trebbiano Toscano or used to produce a wine based on pure Pecorino.
These rare grapes have recently begun producing excellent wines with fresh, acidic and slightly bitter fruit notes.
Rosso Piceno DOC
The vineyards of Rosso Piceno DOC extend across various municipalities in the provinces of Ancona, Macerata and Ascoli Piceno. They are mainly located in higher hills at altitudes of up to 700 metres.
This Picenum wine already enjoyed an excellent reputation during Roman times.
The Rosso Piceno blend primarily uses the local Montepulciano grape, which accounts for between 35% and 82% of the wine. It also contains between 15% and 50% Sangiovese.
Rosso Conero DOC and Conero DOCG
One of the most important appellations in Le Marche is Rosso Conero. It is made from Montepulciano grapes and was recognised as a DOC in 1967.
Rosso Conero comes from a distinctive terroir around, and particularly south of, the coastal city of Ancona. Immediately south of Ancona, Monte Conero rises almost 600 metres above the sea.
The vineyards are situated on the slopes of the mountain and are therefore generally located at some altitude. This provides the ideal conditions for the local Montepulciano grapes to ripen fully.
It is a wine with a long tradition, made from Montepulciano with a maximum of 15% Sangiovese. The finest Rosso Conero wines are powerful and full-bodied, with a bouquet of black cherries and Mediterranean herbs.
Since 2004, the Riserva version has held its own DOCG status under the name Conero DOCG. These vineyards are located close to the azure-blue beaches, such as the beach at Portonovo shown here.
Vernaccia di Serrapetrona DOC & DOCG
Vernaccia di Serrapetrona DOC is an appellation that was established in 1971 and promoted to Vernaccia di Serrapetrona DOCG in 2004.
The appellation is exclusively dedicated to red sparkling wine made from the Vernaccia Nera grape. At least 40% of the grapes are partially dried during the winter months.
The wine undergoes three fermentations before it is bottled. The first takes place using the original must, the second after must from the dried grapes has been added and the third in a pressurised tank.
This is a relatively small appellation with only a limited number of producers, despite the fact that wine has been made in the area around Serrapetrona since the Middle Ages.
Lacrima di Morro d’Alba DOC
Finally, there is Lacrima di Morro d’Alba DOC, made from the Lacrima grape. This grape is found only in Le Marche, around the town of Morro d’Alba.
The name Lacrima means “tear” and refers to the drops of juice that can form on the grapes as they ripen.
One unusual feature is the second fermentation that the wine sometimes undergoes. This is achieved by adding a proportion of must made from grapes that have been dried on the vine.
WHAT DO THE WINE GUIDES SAY?
GAMBERO ROSSO 2026
According to the Gambero Rosso 2026 wine guide, the Le Marche wine region is in excellent form. Verdicchio from Castelli di Jesi and Matelica stands out in particular for its quality, personality and ageing potential.
In 2026, Gambero Rosso awarded no fewer than 24 wines from Le Marche its highest distinction of three glasses.
The winners include well-known wineries such as Vignamato, La Staffa, Pievalta, Villa Bucci, Andrea Felici, Bisci and Borgo Paglianetto, as well as new and returning names such as Terralibera, Vicari and Col di Corte.
For the first time, a Ribona wine produced by the Saputi winery also received this prestigious distinction.
Le MARCHE NEL BICCHIERE 2026
For the eighteenth edition of Le Marche nel Bicchiere, 53 sommeliers from AIS Marche blind-tasted no fewer than 563 wines from 232 wineries.
Of these, 51 wines received the Eccellenza distinction and 15 wines were recognised for their excellent value for money.
The award-winning producers include Pievalta, Sartarelli, Vignamato, Andrea Felici, Belisario, Fattoria Le Terrazze, Saputi and Velenosi.
The selection demonstrates the great diversity of Le Marche. In addition to Verdicchio, award-winning wines were made from Ribona, Montepulciano, Pinot Nero and other local grape varieties.
DOWNLOAD OURFREE WINE TRAVEL GUIDE
- A 129-page e-book with a preview shown alongside
- An explanation of DOC Castelli di Jesi
- Numerous featured wineries
- Our insider tips
- The best tips for a wine trip
- The most enjoyable wineries
- The best restaurants
- Specialised in Castelli di Jesi
- The Cupramontana wine region
VISITING WINERIES AND TASTING WINE
Most wineries in Le Marche are small, family-run businesses and therefore mainly receive visitors by appointment.
Without a reservation, you may sometimes be able to taste a few wines or purchase wine. However, would you like a detailed explanation, a visit to the vineyards or a look inside the cellar where the wine is made? In that case, advance booking is essential.
At most cantinas, you can still arrange an appointment one or two days in advance. A wine tasting costs an average of €20 to €25 per person and usually lasts between one and two hours.
You will generally taste three or four different wines, although enthusiastic winemakers are sometimes happy to pour an additional wine.
Taralli or other small snacks are often served during the tasting. More extensive tastings may also include local cheeses, cured meats and olives.
A personal welcome from the winemaker
At small wineries, the tour and tasting are often hosted by the winemaker personally. At larger cantinas, a member of staff will usually show you around the winery.
English is not spoken everywhere. We therefore prefer to recommend wineries where our guests can enjoy an English-language tour.
Both newcomers to wine and experienced enthusiasts are welcome at these wineries. The explanation and selection of wines are usually adapted to your interests and level of knowledge.
Driving yourself or taking a guided wine tour?
You can easily visit the wineries in your own car. Would you like to discover several cantinas in a single day without having to worry about driving? We recommend a guided tour with Marco’s Ways Winetours.
We are happy to offer our guests personal advice and help them arrange a wine tasting. At some wineries, visitors must make the reservation themselves through an online booking system.
OUR FAVOURITE WINERIES IN LE MARCHE
Cantina Sparapani – Cupramontana
Our favourite winery to visit. Raffaella gives an enthusiastic English-language tour of the winery. You can taste delicious Verdicchio and red wine.
After the tasting, you can have lunch in their trattoria, which is known for its delicious pasta carbonara. Combine your visit with a walk to the Eremo dei Frati Bianchi.
Cantina Vignamato – San Paolo di Jesi
Francesco talks about the winery in English in an accessible and enthusiastic way. Due to its different terroir, the Verdicchio has a noticeably different character from the wines produced around Cupramontana.
During the summer, the winery regularly organises Vignamato Summernights with live music and DJs.
Filodivino – San Marcello
For us, Filodivino is one of the most beautiful wineries in Le Marche. It combines exceptional architecture with excellent wines and a magnificent landscape.
Atmospheric jazz evenings are regularly organised here during the summer.
Colle Jano – Cupramontana
A very small winery that can only be visited by appointment. Winemaker Filippo talks about his work with great passion.
He produces only two wines, but both are distinctive and full of character.
Conti di Buscareto – Ostra
An enjoyable introduction to the aromatic Lacrima grape. The winery produces red Lacrima, rosé spumante and Verdicchio.
You can enjoy an excellent lunch nearby at Trattoria Dal Mago.
Pietro 17 – Staffolo
A relatively new winery with beautiful modern architecture. Taste the Verdicchio Riserva and the surprising orange wine.
During the summer, the winery regularly organises events, including dinners among the vineyards.
Casaleta – Serra de’ Conti
Another personal favourite. Here, you can regularly taste Verdicchio that has benefited from several years of bottle ageing.
The sparkling wine and red wine are also highly recommended.
Tenuta di Tavignano – Cingoli
A beautiful winery in a romantic setting among the hills of Cingoli. Our recommendation is the Verdicchio Misco.
The tastings are extensive, professional and exceptionally well organised.
STAY AT A B&B FOR WINELOVERS
The different wine regions can easily be explored from Villa Verdicchio, our B&B for wine lovers.
Enjoy the tranquillity and our hospitality surrounded by the Verdicchio vineyards.
Bronvermeldingen:
www.amicodelvino.nl, www.vintology.be, www.licata.be, www.gamberorosso.it, Wijngids ‘Le Marche nel Bicchiere 2026’, Associazione Italiana Sommelier Marche (2026), ‘Ontdek Marche’, uitgeverij anwb (2017),
