The Marches sits on Italy's central Adriatic coast, its rolling hills producing Verdicchio, a white grape capable of real ageing and complexity when yields are kept in check, particularly around Jesi and Matelica. The region's reds lean on Montepulciano and Sangiovese, often blended together in structured, food-friendly styles built for the region's hearty central Italian cooking.

Key grapes: Verdicchio, Montepulciano, Sangiovese