Conero Wine Region

Conero wine region head landed not far from the picturesque Ancona city, a beautiful area with stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. The vineyards are arranged like an amphitheater around Monte Conero, which is 570 meters high.

For years, Rosso Conero DOC has been a benchmark red among Marche's wines. With its DOCG status in 2004, its reputation spread globally, leading to more appreciation of the wine and its exquisite qualities.

Conero's wines stand out among the rest due to the soil type, grape varieties, and unique production methods employed by local winemakers. This creative combination of elements is not replicated anywhere else in Italy or around the globe.

Discover the unique flavors of Conero's wines that make it a favorite among wine lovers all around the globe! Join us and experience the excellence of this fine selection. Tour our site to discover what Wineries in Conero have to offer and organize a winery visit today. Find out more about Wine Tasting and Tours in Conero.

Where is the Conero Wine Region?

The Conero DOCG is one of the wine-growing areas in southern Marche, central Italy. Its producing zone is located on the slopes of Mount Conero, south-west of Ancona, between the Apennines and the Adriatic Sea.

Unique Terroir of Conero Appellation

Conero DOCG wine is produced in a unique geography consisting of rolling hills stretching all the way to the Adriatic sea. The terroir of this area is ideal for cultivating vineyards, providing flat and agreeable conditions for them to thrive. The unique climate and soil of Monte Conero have created a suitable living environment for certain non-indigenous grape varieties. Conero DOCG's vineyards are situated in soil that is rich in minerals like chalk and clay. The continental climate and the soil conditions give the vines a perfect environment to flourish, making the vineyard ideal for grape production. The stunning vineyards of Monte Conero, encircling the mountain peak standing at 570m, form an amphitheater-like structure that is truly a work of art. The area is enveloped in lush mountain terrain, making it a perfect place for rest and relaxation. The production area for Conero DOCG wine covers the entire geographic region of Ancona, Offagna, Camerano, Sirolo, Numana and aspects of both Castelfidardo and Osimo. Monte Conero, a headland on the Adriatic Sea, is the geographical feature of reference. Its hills extend inwards to the hinterland and offer a picturesque view.

History of Conero Wine Region

The region of Ancona was mainly influenced by the Dorian and Doric cultures, evidenced by the city's founding by these civilizations. It was precisely these Greek settlers who left safe traces of viticulture and winemaking in the current Conero wine region. It is believed that the Etruscans were the first to introduce and spread knowledge about vine cultivation in the Marche region instead of Piceni. They are credited for imparting technical understanding related to winemaking.The Picenes people living in Matelica, Italy found evidence of grape cultivation dating back to the seventh century BC. An archaeological site from this time yielded 200 grape seeds from Vitis Vinifera. With Roman influence, production was further boosted and expanded. The renowned writer Pliny the Elder outlined around a hundred varieties of vines that were grown in the Picena region near the Adriatic Sea. He stated how one of them, "Praetorian" wine, was produced in Ancona specifically. Apicius Marco Gavio, an influential figure in Roman cuisine, paid tribute to a vibrant, full-bodied red wine from Ancona in Italy known as the "anconetanum".

Rosso Conero DOC was one of the top-rated red wines in Marche before 2004, but with its designation as a DOCG that year, its reputation grew significantly - now it is known and appreciated around the world for its quality.

What is Conero DOCG Wine?

Conero DOCG is known for its high-quality red wines made from at least 85% Montepulciano and up to 15% Sangiovese.

Conero DOCG wine has an impressive ruby red hue. On the nose, it has a pleasant, fruity aroma with hints of spices like pepper and licorice. The palate is dry and savory with nicely balanced tannins and full-bodied texture. This wine must be aged for two or more years before being released for sale. As wood matures, the resulting olfactory note is characterized by greater balance and softness. All DOCG wines of Conero should be aged for a minimum of two years and can remain at peak quality for up to seven years.

Rosso Conero Riserva is the aged version of Conero DOCGs wines. While aging in barrels is a requirement, producers do not necessarily need to mark 'Riserva' on the label.

Conero wine pairs exceptionally well with grilled dishes and roasts.

Food to Pair with Conero Wine

1. Medaglioni alla Rossini

Medaglioni alla Rossini is a classic Italian meal hailing from Pesaro. It is usually made with Chianina beef, Vin Santo, Gruyere/Groviera cheese, butter, flour, olive oil, prosciutto crudo and bread. The dish is seasoned with salt; pepper to enhance its flavor. 

Medallions of beef are cut, browned in a mixture of oil and butter, and then dusted with flour. Vin Santo is then added to the beef and left to evaporate while cooking. Once cooked through, the medallions are seasoned with salt; pepper for that delicious flavor. A delicious dish, this one requires you to layer prosciutto slices and cheese in an oven-proof dish. Pour some Béchamel sauce over it and bake it in the oven until the cheese melts. As a final touch, you can top the dish off with some grated white truffles if they're in season.

2. Tagliata di manzo

Tagliata, a classic Italian recipe, is usually created with sirloin steak. It is usually served with arugula, extra-virgin olive oil, salt, black pepper and cherry tomatoes (if desired). This dish can be a great addition to any special occasion or regular meal. Ensure the meat is cut to a thickness of 2.5cm and quickly grill it on both sides over a hot griddle pan or BBQ for best results.

The center of the meat is generally cooked medium-rare and tasty, while the exterior has a nice sear. Once done, it's seasoned with salt and pepper and cut into thin slices. A popular way to serve the slices is atop a bed of rocket leaves, with a sprinkle of olive oil for extra flavor.

To elevate its flavor profile, you can add cherry tomatoes, a hint of balsamic vinegar, or some Parmigiano-Reggiano shavings to the tagliata di manzo. Then finish it off with a final touch and serve it piping hot.

3. Abbacchio alla Romana

Abbacchio, a enjoyed dish made of milk-fed lamb, has been part of Roman culture for centuries. It is especially popular around Easter, often served with roasted potatoes for an extra festive touch. The lamb is flavored with a marinade and slow cooked with rosemary, sage, garlic, white wine, vinegar and anchovies - a modern version of the fish sauce garum commonly used in ancient Roman cuisine. The outcome is a deliciously succulent, fragrant, and mildly sweet piece of meat that has a sharp, robust, and salty zest.

Places to Discover Near  Conero DOCG

1. Riviera del Conero beaches

A day at the Conero Riviera beaches is sure to be a special one, with its one-of-a-kind views and crystal clear waters. Nature’s unique artistry can be seen in the shape of rocks and hills here, giving you a memorable experience. This is why this part of Italy's coast is so precious!

The Conero Riviera, found in the Marche region, is an ideal destination for nature lovers who want to spend their holiday in beautiful and wild surroundings. This coastal area of the Adriatic Sea has a lot to offer and is truly remarkable.

Solitude seekers are in luck, as there are beaches that can only be accessed by boat, while other areas boast amazing beach amenities.

2. The Temple of Valadier, a Jewel Secreted Away in a Rock

Valadier's Temple is a stunning example of neoclassical design, situated in Genga, a captivating village in the Ancona province of Marche. Nestled within the Regional Natural Park of Gola della Rossa and Frasassi is a small, sacred space dedicated to the Virgin Mary. This refuge is situated in an underground cave, making it a tranquil place for spiritual reflection.

Ever since the 10th century, this cave has been providing refuge to locals fleeing invasions from Hungary. It served as a safe haven during such times of crisis. Pope Leo XII commissioned the renowned architect Giuseppe Valadier to build The Temple in 1828 as a "Refugium Peccatorum" where Christians could seek God's mercy. Its construction was completed without fail since then, creating a beautiful holiness amidst Rome.

3. Urbino, The Incredible Renaissance-era Italian Town

Urbino happily resides in the hills of the Marche region, between Metauro valley and Foglia valley and is blessed with an amazing view of the Adriatic Sea. An important city from the Italian Renaissance, Urbino continues to impress us with its exceptional art and architecture which still remain intact today.

The picturesque city of Urbino is renowned for its remarkable sandstone buildings, surrounding brick wall and immense cultural legacy. The city truly flourished during the Renaissance era, with vestiges of its history still present today. Strolling through its downtown area gives a unique opportunity to soak up the atmosphere that harkens back to 15th-century Italy.

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