Colli Pesaresi DOC

Colli Pesaresi DOC

43°54'00''N

LATITUDE

12°55'00''E

LONGITUDE

14

APPELATIONS

about this subregion

The Colli Pesaresi DOC, located in the Marche wine region of Italy, is renowned for its diverse wines of high quality. The DOC is situated in the northern part of Marche, bordered by the Bianchello del Metauro DOC and the Esino DOC and Lacrima di Morro DOC to the south, the Pergola DOC to the north, the Verdicchio di Matelica DOC and Verdicchio di Matelica Riserva DOCG to the west and the Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi DOC and Castelli di Jesi Verdicchio Riserva DOCG to the south.

This area benefits from a semi-continental climate with maritime influences from the Adriatic Sea, which moderates temperatures and reduces humidity. Summers are hot and sunny, while winters can bring cold winds and occasional heavy snowfalls.

The region's varied landscape includes rolling hills, river valleys, and coastal areas. The altitude ranges from 50 to 600 meters above sea level, with hilly terrains providing excellent drainage and sun exposure for vineyards. The soils in Colli Pesaresi DOC are predominantly calcareous, clayey, and sandy, each contributing to the optimal development of different grape varieties.

The main grape varieties cultivated in the Colli Pesaresi DOC are Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Nero, and Sangiovese for red wines, and Biancame, Chardonnay, Pinot Bianco, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Trebbiano, Verdicchio, and Welschriesling for white wines.

Associations

vinerra illustration
90

Vineyard Hectares

7

WINERIES

1800-2000 GDD

GROWING DEGREE DAYS

Discover Terroir

The Colli Pesaresi DOC is located in the northern part of the Marche region, Italy, encompassing a picturesque landscape characterized by rolling hills, river valleys, and coastal areas. The region stretches from the coastal towns of Pesaro and Fano to the Apennine foothills. This diverse terrain includes the valleys of the Metauro and Foglia rivers, which are key for  the region's agricultural richness. The hills range in altitude from 50 to 600 meters above sea level, providing excellent drainage and sun exposure for the vineyards.

The proximity to the Adriatic Sea  influences the local climate, with sea breezes moderating temperatures and reducing humidity, creating an ideal environment for grape growing. The Monte San Bartolo Natural Park offers steep cliffs and rugged terrain, enhancing the region's scenic beauty. This blend of fertile valleys, coastal influences, and hilly landscapes not only supports viticulture in the region, but also makes Colli Pesaresi a stunning area​​​​​​​​​​.

The Colli Pesaresi DOC experiences a  semi-continental climate, with influences from the Adriatic Sea. This region benefits from hot, sunny summers with cooling sea breezes that help to moderate temperatures and reduce humidity. These conditions are ideal for grape growing, especially for varieties like Pinot Noir and Sangiovese.

During the summer months, temperatures can exceed 39°C (102°F) in the northern parts, while the coastal influence helps to maintain a more temperate climate overall. Winters are cooler and can bring cold winds from Eastern Europe, which sometimes lead to heavy snowfall, especially in the higher altitudes and hilly areas. The average annual rainfall ranges from 800 to 1,000 millimeters, and its especially concentrated in autumn.

The diverse climate and varied topography of the Colli Pesaresi DOC contribute to the unique qualities of the wines produced in this region, combining the benefits of both coastal and hilly vineyard sites.

The soils of the Colli Pesaresi DOC are diverse and contribute significantly to the region's viticultural success.

  1. Calcareous Soils: These soils are most common in the hilly areas of the Colli Pesaresi DOC and are known for their excellent drainage properties. Calcareous soils help regulate moisture levels and promote deep root growth, which is essential for producing high-quality grapes. These soils are particularly favorable for varieties like Pinot Noir and Sangiovese, which thrive in well-drained conditions.
  2. Clayey Soils: Found in different areasof the DOC, these soils have a great moisture retention, providing a steady supply of water to the vines. Clay soils are also rich in nutrients, which can contribute to the robust growth and development of the vines. They are suitable for both red and white grape varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon and Trebbiano.
  3. Sandy Soils: These soils offer excellent drainage and are less fertile than clay soils. Sandy soils warm up quickly, which can enhance the early ripening of the grapes. This type of soil is beneficial for grapes that require a long growing season to develop their full flavor profile, such as Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.​​​​​​​

Discover

Colli Pesaresi DOC, nestled within the picturesque Marche (Le Marche) wine region of Italy, is renowned for its diverse range of grape varieties. This appellation benefits from a unique combination of soil types, microclimates, and traditional viticultural practices that contribute to the exceptional quality of its wines. In this write-up, we will explore the agricultural and climatic requirements of the most common grapes grown in Colli Pesaresi DOC, which include both red and white varieties. Each paragraph will delve into the specific needs of these grapes, highlighting what makes them thrive in this unique terroir.

  1. Cabernet Franc: Cabernet Franc prefers well-drained, sandy, and gravelly soils, which help control its vigor and promote the development of grapes concentrated flavors. It thrives in temperate climates with enough warmth during the growing season to achieve full ripeness. This variety requires careful canopy management to ensure ideal sunlight exposure and air circulation, reducing the risk of fungal diseases. Cabernet Franc also benefits from a long growing season to develop the characteristic depth and complexity of Cabernet Franc wines.
  2. Cabernet Sauvignon: Cabernet Sauvignon thrives in well-drained soils with a high gravel content, that allows for a deeper root penetration. Cabernet Sauvignon needs a warm climate with plenty of sunshine to ripen fully, though it can withstand cooler temperatures better than other red grapes. The long growing season of the Marche region allows Cabernet Sauvignon to develop its tannins and phenolic compounds.
  3. Merlot: Merlot thrives in clay and limestone-rich soils that have a great moisture retention, providing enough water during dry periods. This grape prefers a moderate climate with warm, dry summers and mild winters. Merlot is an early ripening, which means that its less susceptible to autumn rains. The vines benefit from good sun exposure and consistent temperatures to develop their soft tannins and rich fruity character.
  4. Pinot Noir: Pinot Noir, locally known as Pinot Nero, is a notorious red grape that thrives in cooler climates with well-drained, calcareous soils. This grape requires a long, cool growing season to develop its nuanced flavors. Pinot Noir also benefits from careful canopy management to prevent excessive sunlight and heat, which can lead to over-ripening. Pinot Noir also requires a great preventive disease control, due to its thin skin and tight clusters.
  5. Sangiovese: Sangiovese thrives in a wide range of soil types, although it prefers limestone-rich soils that provide good drainage and have moderate fertility. It thrives in warm, sunny climates with enough rainfall during the growing season to avoid drought stress. Sangiovese vines require careful pruning and canopy management to ensure aneven ripening and prevent over-vigorous growth. The long growing season of the Marche region allows Sangiovese to achieve its characteristic balance of acidity and tannins.
  6. Biancame: Biancame, locally known as Bianchello, prefers well-drained, sandy, and calcareous soils that promote a healthy root development and vine growth. It thrives in temperate climates with warm, dry summers and moderate rainfall. Biancame requires careful canopy management to ensure enough sunlinght and air circulation, reducing the risk of fungal diseases. The consistent temperatures and the growing season of Marche help this grape to develop its signature freshness.
  7. Chardonnay: Chardonnay has a great adaptability to various soil types. although it performs best in well-drained, calcareous soils. It thrives in temperate climates with a great balance between warm days and cool nights, which help to preserve the acidity of the grape while allowing full ripening. Chardonnay benefits from a long growing season, which enhances its complexity and richness. Careful canopy management is key to protect the grapes from excessive sunlight and heat, which can lead to over-ripening.
  8. Pinot Blanc: Pinot Blanc, locally known as Pinot Bianco, prefers well-drained, calcareous soils that provide the right balance of moisture and nutrients. It thrives in cooler climates with moderate temperatures and a long growing season. Pinot Bianco requires careful management to avoid an excessively vigorous growth, which can lead to lower quality fruit. Consistent temperatures and adequate rainfall during the growing season are key for developing the characteristic structure of this grape.
  9. Pinot Gris: Pinot Gris, locally known as Pinot Grigio, thrives in well-drained, mineral-rich soils that provide essential nutrients to the grapes. It thrives in cooler climates with moderate temperatures and a great amount of sunshine to achieve an optimal ripening cycle. Pinot Grigiorequires careful canopy management to ensure they receive enough sunlight, reducing the risk of fungal diseases. The growing season and consistent temperatures of Marche helps to develop the grape's distinctive characteristics.
  10. Sauvignon Blanc Sauvignon Blanc prefers well-drained, gravelly, and sandy soils that promote healthy root development and prevent waterlogging. It thrives in cooler climates with plenty of sunlight and moderate temperatures, which help to preserve its natural acidity and intense aromas. Sauvignon Blanc requires careful canopy management to protect the grapes from excessive heat and sunlight. Finally, it the moderate rainfall  during the growing season helps to maintain the overall vine health and fruit quality.
  11. Trebbiano:  Trebbiano is a very adaptable grape, but performs best in well-drained, fertile soils with good water retention. It thrives in warm, sunny climates with moderate temperatures and a long growing season, which allows for full ripening. Trebbiano vines require careful canopy management to control vigor and ensure an even ripening. In addition, Trebbiano requires a great amount of sunlight and air circulation, which are essential to prevent diseases and promote a healthy fruit development.
  12. Verdicchio: Verdicchio thrives in well-drained, calcareous, and clay-rich soils that provide a great balance between nutrients and moisture. It prefers a temperate climate with warm, sunny days and cool nights, which help preserve its natural acidity and aromatic intensity. Verdicchio benefits from a long growing season, allowing it to develop its characteristic complexity.
  13. Welschriesling: Welschriesling prefers well-drained, sandy, and loamy soils that provide a great balance of moisture and nutrients. It thrives in cooler climates with moderate temperatures and enough sunlight. This grape requires a long growing season to achieve optimal ripeness and develop its characteristic freshness and acidity.

Colli Pesaresi DOC is a prestigious DOC located in the Marche region of Italy, known for its diverse and high-quality wines:

White Wines from Colli Pesaresi

  1. Bianco: Bianco wines from Colli Pesaresi DOC are very aromatic and fresh, with a bright, floral nose that usually includes notes of white flowers and citrus. On the palate, these wines are crisp and refreshing, featuring notes of green apple, pear, and a hint of minerality. These white wines are composed primarily from a minimum of 75% of  Biancame, Chardonnay, Pinot Bianco, Pinot Grigio, Pinot Nero (vinified as a white wine), Sauvignon Blanc, Trebbiano Toscano, Verdicchio, and/or Welschriesling.
  2. Bianco from Subzone Roncaglia: Bianco from the Roncaglia subzone has a more complex and intense aromatic profile compared to Bianco. This wihite wine often shows rich floral aromas, with hints of honeysuckle and acacia, coupled by ripe stone fruit notes such as peach and apricot. On the palate, this wine has a richer body than Bianco, with a balanced acidity and a touch of almond on the finish. This wine is mainly composed of a minimum of 25% of Pinot Nero (vinified as a white wine) and a maximum of 75% of Chardonnay, Pinot Bianco, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, and/or Trebbiano.
  3. Biancame: Biancame wines stand out for their delicate and subtle aromatic bouquet, featuring notes of fresh herbs, white flowers, and a touch of citrus zest. On the palate, Biancame wines are light-bodied, and showcase flavors of green apple, lemon, and a slight hint of almond. The primary grape used for this wine is Biancame (at least 85%), which is also known as Bianchello.
  4. Pinot Nero from Subzone Focara or Roncaglia (vinified as a white wine): When vinified as a white wine, Pinot Noir from the Focara or Roncaglia subzones offers a unique profile. White Pinot Noir has an elegant aromatic profile, showcasing delicate floral notes coupled with white peach and hints of red berries. The flavor profile of this white wine includes a mix of citrus and light stone fruit, with a refreshing acidity and a clean, mineral finish. This wine is made with at least 95% of Pinot Noir grapes.
  5. Trebbiano: Trebbiano wines from Colli Pesaresi DOC are characterized by their bright and lively aromatic profile, featuring notes of green apple, lemon, and a touch of fresh grass. On the palate, Trebbiano wines are crisp and clean, with flavors of tart apple, citrus, and a slight herbal note. These wines are composed of at least 85% of the Trebbiano grape.
  6. Riserva (Roncaglia Bianco): Riserva Roncaglia Bianco wines are more mature and complex, often aged longer to develop deeper flavors. The nose is rich and layered, with aromas of dried apricot, honey, and a hint of vanilla from oak aging. On the palate, this wine is full-bodied and round, featuring flavors of ripe tropical fruits, toasted almonds, and a creamy texture. This wine is crafted from the same grapes of the Bianco wine.

Red Wines from Colli Pesaresi

  1. Rosso: Rosso wines from Colli Pesaresi DOC are composed of at least 70% Sangiovese, often blended with Montepulciano and other local varieties to achieve a more complex profile. These wines boast a rich and robust aromatic profile, featuring notes of dark cherry, plum, and violets, coupled with subtle hints of spices and earthy undertones. On the palate,these wines have a full body and great structure, offering flavors of ripe black fruits, such as blackberry and blackcurrant, complemented by nuances of black pepper, tobacco, and a touch of leather. The tannins are firm yet refined, leading to a balanced and persistent finish.
  2. Rosso from Subzone Focara: Rosso from the Focara subzone is composed of at least 70% Sangiovese. The aromatic profile is rich and robust, featuring dark cherry, plum, and hints of violets. On the palate, this wine is full bodied and has a great structure,  showcasing flavors of black fruits, spices, and a touch of earthiness, supported by firm tannins and a long finish.
  3. Cabernet Sauvignon from Subzone Parco Naturale Monte San Bartolo: This wine is made with at least 85% of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. The aromatic profile is intense and complex, with aromas of blackcurrant, green pepper, and a touch of mint. On the palate, it offers flavors of dark fruits, black cherry, and cassis, with notes of tobacco and cedar, complemented by balanced and structured tannins that lead to a persistent finish.
  4. Pinot Nero from Subzone Focara or Roncaglia: Pinot Noir from the Focara or Roncaglia subzones, locally known as Pinot Nero, is crafted from at least 90% of Pinot Noir grapes. The wine has an elegant aromatic profile with notes of red cherry, raspberry, and rose petals. On the palate, it has a smooth and refined profile, featuring flavors of red berries, subtle spices, and a hint of earthiness, balanced by silky tannins and a delicate finish.
  5. Sangiovese: Sangiovese wines from Colli Pesaresi DOC are crafted from at least 85% of Sangiovese grapes. These red wines showcase a vibrant aromatic profile with notes of red cherry, raspberry, and a touch of violet. On the palate, these red wines are medium-bodied and have a great balance, showcasing flavors of red fruits, a hint of spice, and a lively acidity, with soft tannins and a smooth finish.
  6. Novello: Novello wines are crafted with the same grapes as Sangiovese. The aromatic profile of Novello is fresh and fruity, featuring notes of red berries, cherry, and a hint of flowers. On the palate, they have a light body that makes them easy to drink, with flavors of fresh red fruits, a touch of spice, and a vibrant acidity, making them ideal to consume at a younger stage.
  7. Riserva: Riserva wines from Colli Pesaresi DOC receive a longer aging process to develop complexity. They show deep and rich aromas, with notes of dark fruits, spices, and hints of oak. On the palate, these wines are full-bodied and well-rounded, offering flavors of ripe black fruits, plums, and cherries, complemented by notes of vanilla, leather, and tobacco. The tannins are very structured, and provide a long and elegant finish. The only wines that can receive the status of Riserva are Focara Rosso, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, Focara Pinot Nero and Roncaglia Pinot Nero.

Sparkling Wines from Colli Pesaresi

  1. Spumante: Spumante wines from Colli Pesaresi DOC are crafted from a minimum of 75% Biancame, Chardonnay, Pinot Bianco, Pinot Grigio, Pinot Nero (vinified as a white wine), Sauvignon Blanc, Trebbiano, Verdicchio, and/or Welschriesling.. These sparkling wines have a fresh and lively aromatic profile, with notes of citrus, green apple, and white flowers. On the palate, these wines are crisp and effervescent, offering flavors of lemon zest, pear, and a touch of brioche, balanced with a refreshing acidity that leads to a clean, dry finish.
  2. Pinot Nero Spumante from Subzone Focara or Roncaglia: These wines are made from a minimum of 85% Pinot Noir, complemented by other authorized red grapes. This sparkling wine has an elegant and refined aromatic profile, with delicate notes of red berries, wild strawberries, and rose petals. On the palate, it has a smooth and vibrant profile, showcasing flavors of raspberry, cherry, and a hint of almond. This wine has a balanced acidity that leads to a long and elegant finish.
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