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What is Bianchello del Metauro DOC?
Bianchello del Metauro DOC is a historic Italian white wine appellation from the Marche wine region, officially recognized in 1969. Produced mainly from the indigenous Biancame grape (minimum 95%), this wine is celebrated for its fresh, floral, and citrus-driven profile. Known as one of the most elegant Adriatic coast wines, it remains a local treasure now reaching curious global drinkers.
Quick Facts
- Region: Marche, Pesaro–Urbino province, Italy
- Established: 1969 (DOC)
- Main Grape: Biancame (≥95%, with up to 5% Malvasia bianca lunga)
- Wine Styles: Bianco, Superiore, Spumante, Passito
- Serving Temperature: 8–10 °C
- Alcohol Range: 11.5% (Bianco) – 12.5%+ (Superiore & Passito)
History and Origins
The story of Bianchello del Metauro weaves together myth and history. Roman historian Tacitus recounts that Hasdrubal’s Carthaginian army was defeated at the Battle of Metauro in 207 BC after overindulging in local wine. While apocryphal, this tale highlights the ancient roots of viticulture in the region.
In Renaissance Italy, Andrea Bacci, physician to Pope Sixtus V, described the wines of Fano in 1596, noting their freshness and versatility. Yet it wasn’t until 1969, amid Italy’s drive to codify quality wines, that Bianchello del Metauro earned DOC status, protecting its identity and anchoring it within Marche’s wine legacy.
Where It’s Made: Geography & Terroir
The DOC covers the hills along the Metauro River in the Pesaro–Urbino province, extending from the Adriatic coast inland. Vineyards rise between 80–350 meters, benefiting from:
- Climate: Warm, maritime influence with cooling Adriatic breezes, balancing ripeness with freshness.
- Soils: Sandy clays for drainage, silt and tufa for structure and minerality.
- Day-Night Swings: Marked diurnal ranges help preserve aromatic lift and acidity.
This terroir shapes a wine both refreshing and gastronomically versatile, distinct among Marche white wines.
The Grape: Biancame
Biancame (locally “Bianchello”) is a pale-skinned grape native to northern Marche and Romagna. Known for subtle floral aromas, orchard fruit flavors, and delicate acidity, it thrives in the Metauro valley.
By regulation, Bianchello del Metauro DOC must contain at least 95% Biancame, with Malvasia bianca lunga (≤5%) allowed for nuance.
Winemaking & DOC Regulations
The appellation recognizes four distinct styles:
- Bianco: Light, fresh, minimum 11.5% alcohol.
- Superiore: Fuller-bodied, ≥12.5% alcohol, more complexity and aging potential.
- Spumante: Sparkling version with fine, persistent bubbles, often in Brut styles.
- Passito: Sweet wine from dried Biancame grapes, aged at least 12 months, offering amber tones and honeyed richness.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Attribute | Details |
| DOC Established | 1969 |
| Vineyard Area | ~114 ha (2021) |
| Annual Production | ~8,240 hl (~91,500 cases, 2022) |
| Grape Composition | ≥95% Biancame, ≤5% Malvasia |
| Styles | Bianco, Superiore, Spumante, Passito |
Tasting Notes
- Bianco: Pale straw-yellow, aromas of white flowers, green apple, pear, meadow herbs. Crisp and mineral-driven.
- Superiore: Richer palate with hawthorn, almond, honey undertones. Structured yet fresh.
- Spumante: Citrus zest, apple, delicate brioche hints. Bright and celebratory.
- Passito: Amber-hued, dried apricot, figs, honey. Sweet but balanced by acidity.
Serving & Pairing
- Bianco/Spumante: Perfect as an aperitivo, with seafood antipasti, Adriatic clams, fritto misto, risotto alla pescatora.
- Superiore: Pair with grilled white meats, roasted rabbit, pecorino cheese.
- Passito: Ideal with ciambellone marchigiano (ring-shaped cake), almond biscotti, or aged cheeses.
This makes Bianchello del Metauro a true food wine—regional dishes enhance its authenticity.
Where to Buy & Pricing
Bianchello del Metauro remains niche internationally, but select producers are available:
- Guerrieri Bianchello del Metauro 2021 – ~£16.95 in the UK
- Umani Ronchi “Fortunae” – widely available in Italy, ~€12–15
- Villa Ligi Albaspino – artisanal small-batch label, ~€18
In general:
- Bianco/Superiore: €10–20
- Spumante: €15–25
- Passito: €25–40
Best Producers to Try
- Guerrieri (Pesaro–Urbino) – benchmark freshness.
- Umani Ronchi – internationally recognized Marchigiano house.
- Villa Ligi – artisanal and terroir-driven.
- Crespaia – modern expressions under “Bianchello d’Autore.”
- Moretti – family-run, traditional yet innovative.
Comparisons & FAQs
Is Bianchello del Metauro sweet or dry?
Mostly dry, though Passito offers a sweet dessert option.
How does it compare to Vermentino?
Bianchello is lighter, subtler, and more floral, whereas Vermentino (also grown in Marche and Sardinia) shows herbal and saline intensity.
How much does it cost?
Most bottles range from €10–20, making it one of the best-value Italian DOC wines.
What are the best vintages?
Recent excellent years include 2018, 2020, and 2022, praised for freshness and balance.
Fun Facts & Cultural Notes
- Roman legend ties Bianchello to Hasdrubal’s downfall—a “wine of victory.”
- The DOC is part of the Strada del Bianchello, a wine route promoting tourism in Pesaro–Urbino.
- Modern campaigns like “Bianchello d’Autore” aim to internationalize this once-local wine.
Explore More & Stay Connected
If you’re intrigued by Bianchello del Metauro DOC, explore our guides to other Marche wines such as Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi DOCG and Lacrima di Morro d’Alba DOC.
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