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Quick Facts About Falerio DOC
- Region: Marche, Italy
- Established: 1975 (as DOC)
- Grape Blend: Trebbiano Toscano (20–50%), Passerina (10–30%), Pecorino (10–30%)
- Style: Crisp, dry Italian white wine
- Best Served: 8–10 °C
- Price Range: $10–20
What is Falerio DOC Wine?
Falerio DOC is a refreshing, expressive white wine from the rolling hills of Marche, a region on Italy’s Adriatic coast. Known for its elegance, it showcases the harmony of native Italian grapes—Trebbiano Toscano, Passerina, and Pecorino—crafted into a vibrant, food-friendly style that captures the spirit of central Italy.
Falerio DOC History: From Roman Times to Modern Revival
Named after the Roman settlement Faleria Augusta (modern-day Falerone), Falerio has roots reaching back to antiquity. Renaissance physician Andrea Bacci described local wines in his 16th-century treatise, while the DOC designation arrived in 1975. In 1997, the inclusion of Passerina and Pecorino modernized the blend, ensuring that this wine remained both traditional and relevant for today’s drinkers.
Falerio DOC Terroir: Where Geography Meets Great Wine
The vineyards of Falerio DOC extend across Ascoli Piceno and parts of Fermo, nestled between the Adriatic Sea and the Sibillini Mountains. This geography creates a Mediterranean climate—warm days tempered by sea breezes, cool nights that preserve acidity. Clay-limestone and sandy soils lend structure and minerality, giving the wines their refreshing balance.
The Grape Blend: Trebbiano, Passerina, Pecorino
- Trebbiano Toscano: Provides structure and freshness
- Passerina: Delivers floral aromatics and delicate citrus notes
- Pecorino: Adds texture, richness, and a whisper of herbal complexity
There is also a Falerio Pecorino style (minimum 85% Pecorino), prized for its fuller body and savory finesse.
Winemaking & DOC Regulations
According to the official production rules:
- Altitude limit: 700 m
- Alcohol: 11.5% (Bianco), 12% (Pecorino)
- Aging: No minimum requirement
Most producers use gentle pressing and cool stainless steel fermentation, keeping the wines crisp and aromatic.
Key Facts at a Glance
- DOC Since: 1975
- Vineyard Area: ~383 ha
- Production: ~23,000 hl annually (~256,000 cases)
- Variants: Falerio Bianco blend, Falerio Pecorino varietal
Tasting Notes
- Appearance: Pale straw yellow with greenish highlights
- Aromas: White flowers, acacia, citrus zest, pear, and subtle stone fruit
- Palate: Dry, fresh, mineral-driven, with bright acidity and a clean, persistent finish
Serving & Pairing
Serve chilled at 8–10 °C.
Perfect with:
- Seafood: clams, grilled fish, oysters
- Local specialties: olive ascolane (stuffed fried olives), vegetable soups
- Aperitivo: soft cheeses, charcuterie, or simply with conversation
Where to Buy & Pricing
Falerio DOC offers exceptional value, often priced between $10–20. Notable producers include:
- Tenuta Cocci Grifoni
- Velenosi
- Roberto Capecci
- Cantina Ortenzi
- Rio Maggio
📌 Example: Velenosi Bianco Falerio DOC (2024 vintage) retails around $12.
Best Falerio DOC Wines to Try
- Cocci Grifoni Tara Falerio Pecorino
- Velenosi Villa Angela Falerio
- Roberto Capecci Falerio dei Colli Ascolani
Falerio DOC vs. Other Italian Whites
- Falerio DOC: Crisp, light, mineral-driven
- Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi (also Marche): Fuller body, almond finish
- Soave DOC (Veneto): More floral, sometimes aged on lees
- Orvieto DOC (Umbria): Softer, rounder, easy-drinking
Falerio’s distinction is its Passerina and Pecorino-driven vibrancy.
FAQ on Falerio DOC
- How do you pronounce Falerio?
Fah-LEH-ryo - Is Falerio DOC dry or sweet?
Dry, crisp, and refreshing. - When should I drink Falerio DOC?
Best enjoyed young (within 1–2 years) to preserve freshness. - What grapes are in it?
Trebbiano Toscano, Passerina, Pecorino, plus other approved whites.
Fun Facts & Cultural Notes
- Roman origins: linked to Faleria Augusta
- Literary ties: Passerina may be the “Psithia” grape mentioned by Virgil
- Revival: Modern producers are elevating the DOC with terroir-driven styles
Ready to explore Italian white wines?
- Shop Italian White Wines
- Explore More Wines from Marche
- Join the Drink Italian Newsletter for stories, guides, and tasting invites
Have fun to learn more about Italian Wines and Spirits! Explore also the non-alcoholic beverages
Send us an email if you want to suggest edits, or if you are looking for more info, at
cheers@drinkitalian.com
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.
