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What is Esino DOC?
Esino DOC is a versatile appellation in Italy’s Le Marche wine region, bridging the traditions of white Verdicchio, fruity Montepulciano, and lively Italian frizzante wines. Established in 1995, the DOC was designed to give winemakers flexibility while preserving the cultural identity of Marche viticulture. Unlike its more famous neighbors—Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi DOC and Rosso Conero DOC—Esino DOC encourages stylistic exploration, producing crisp whites, approachable reds, and even sparkling and Novello wines.
History and Origins
The name “Esino” comes from the river that winds through the Marchigian hills, shaping the fertile valleys that have nurtured vines since Roman times. While Verdicchio has long been the star grape of Le Marche, the creation of Esino DOC in 1995 allowed producers to showcase blends and single-varietal wines without the stricter rules of Jesi or Matelica. This freedom has made Esino a hub for both traditional family wineries and forward-looking estates experimenting with frizzante and international blends.
Where It’s Made: Geography & Terroir
The Esino DOC production zone overlaps much of the Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi territory, stretching inland from the Adriatic coast. Vineyards thrive on rolling hills at 200–500 meters above sea level, where limestone and clay soils provide structure and minerality. The Adriatic Sea moderates the climate, while cool mountain breezes preserve acidity—ideal for Verdicchio whites and Sangiovese- or Montepulciano-based reds.
The Grapes
- Verdicchio (white) – The backbone of Esino Bianco; known for citrus, almond, and mineral notes.
- Trebbiano Toscano & Malvasia – Often blended for softer texture and floral aromatics.
- Montepulciano & Sangiovese – Dominant in Esino Rosso, producing fruity, medium-bodied reds.
- International grapes (Chardonnay, Cabernet, Merlot) – Permitted, adding diversity to blends.
Winemaking & DOC Regulations
Esino DOC regulations are intentionally flexible, designed to encourage creativity while maintaining quality:
- Esino Bianco DOC: At least 50% Verdicchio.
- Esino Rosso DOC: At least 60% Sangiovese and/or Montepulciano.
- Frizzante & Spumante styles allowed.
- Novello (young red wines, similar to Beaujolais Nouveau) permitted.
This adaptability makes Esino DOC one of Italy’s more approachable appellations for both producers and drinkers.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Region: Le Marche, central Italy
- Established: 1995
- Wine Styles: White, Red, Rosé, Frizzante, Spumante, Novello
- Key Grapes: Verdicchio, Sangiovese, Montepulciano
- Altitude: 200–500m
- Notable Feature: Combines Adriatic freshness with inland structure
Tasting Notes
- Esino Bianco: Crisp citrus, green apple, almond, and saline minerality.
- Esino Rosso: Juicy cherry, plum, and violet with soft tannins.
- Frizzante: Fresh, lightly sparkling, with floral and orchard fruit aromas.
- Novello: Fruity, vibrant, meant to be enjoyed young.
Serving & Pairing
- Esino Bianco: Ideal with Adriatic seafood, grilled vegetables, and pecorino cheese.
- Esino Rosso: Perfect with pasta al ragù, roasted meats, or pizza.
- Frizzante/Spumante: Aperitivo, fried seafood, or festive occasions.
Comparison with Other Marche DOCs
| DOC | Key Grape(s) | Style Focus | Notable Feature |
| Esino DOC | Verdicchio, Sangiovese, Montepulciano | Whites, Reds, Frizzante | Flexibility & diversity |
| Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi | Verdicchio | White wines only | Age-worthy whites with minerality |
| Rosso Conero DOC | Montepulciano | Robust reds | Bold, structured red wines |
| Lacrima di Morro d’Alba DOC | Lacrima | Aromatic reds | Distinct floral & spicy profile |
Producer Spotlights
- Umani Ronchi – A leading estate experimenting with both traditional Verdicchio and creative Esino blends.
- Moncaro Cooperative – A large-scale cooperative producing approachable Esino Bianco and Rosso.
- Smaller family wineries near Jesi often release Esino wines as everyday companions to their flagship Verdicchio.
Where to Buy & Pricing
Esino DOC wines are widely available in Italian wine shops and increasingly on international platforms like Wine.com and Wine-Searcher. Pricing is affordable:
- Esino Bianco/Frizzante: $10–15
- Esino Rosso: $12–18
- Higher-quality Riserva or single-vineyard bottlings: $20–25
FAQ on Esino DOC
- What makes Esino DOC unique?
Its flexibility—it allows for a wide range of grapes and styles, from crisp Verdicchio to lively frizzante. - Is Esino DOC a good introduction to Le Marche wines?
Yes, it’s approachable, affordable, and a great entry point before exploring Jesi or Rosso Conero. - Does Esino DOC produce sparkling wines?
Yes, both frizzante (lightly sparkling) and spumante (fully sparkling) are permitted.
Fun Facts & Cultural Notes
- The Esino River not only lends its name but also irrigates the vineyards, connecting the wines directly to the land.
- Novello wines from Esino are released each November, often celebrated with village festivals.
- In local trattorie, Esino Bianco is often served alla spina (on tap), making it a true everyday table wine.
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If you are in the mood for a good book, you can try:
– The Modern History of Italian Wine by Walter Filipputti
– Hidden Gems of Italy: An Insider’s Secret Formula To Find Top-Class Italian Wines At Value Prices And Taste La Dolce Vita by Tony Margiotta
Additionally, you can discover the other wines from Marche.
