Wine Tour and Tasting at Le Marche’s Oldest Wine Estate

Discover Le Marche’s Oldest Winery and Its Exclusive Tasting Experience

The Wine Tour and Tasting at Le Marche’s Oldest Wine Estate offers a unique glimpse into Italian winemaking tradition. Priced at $34.39 per person, this approximate 1-hour tour takes place in Ancona, Italy, and is ideal for those eager to explore history, culture, and fine wines in a relaxed setting. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 41 reviews, it remains a popular choice, often booked 14 days in advance.

This tour is a chance to visit a privately owned estate established in 1850, where production continues in the same historic wine cellar. Visitors receive personalized attention, making it well-suited for small groups or those seeking an authentic, intimate experience. While the tour focuses on the native wines of the region, it also offers a variety of other quality products, including spirits and olive oils.

Key Points

• Historic winery dating back to 1850 with ongoing traditional production
• Guided tour of the original wine cellar and estate grounds
• Tasting of three native wines: Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi, Lacrima di Morro d’Alba, and Rosso Piceno
• Pairing with local meats and cheeses in a scenic outdoor or cellar setting
• Private, personalized experience limited to your group
• Most bookings made 14 days in advance, with flexible outdoor or indoor tasting options

The Historic Roots of Le Marche’s Oldest Wine Estate

Established in 1850, this winery holds a special place in Italy’s wine-making landscape. It remains privately owned, with all wine production still taking place in the original wine cellar—a site that has seen generations of vintners at work. Visitors are guided through purpose-built production areas and introduced to the founders’ history and the estate’s villa, offering a sense of continuity from past to present.

The tour includes a detailed look at the winery’s bottle archive and the traditional methods used to craft regional wines. This focus on authenticity makes the experience especially meaningful for those interested in Le Marche’s native grape varieties and traditional winemaking techniques.

Visiting the Wine Cellar and Vineyard Vistas

The tour begins inside the historic wine cellar, where the original barrels and fermentation tanks are on display. Visitors get a close-up view of the old wine barrels, which remain in their original condition, adding a tangible sense of history. After the cellar visit, guests can walk among the vineyards at a viewing area, enjoying panoramic views of the sprawling 45-hectare estate.

The scenery of the vineyards enhances the tasting experience, especially when the weather permits outdoor seating. Whether you prefer the outdoor vineyard overlooks or the cozy barrel room, the setting contributes to a relaxed and authentic atmosphere.

Sampling Native Wines: Verdicchio, Lacrima, and Rosso Piceno

The tasting features three native wines, each representing a different aspect of regional viticulture. The Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi DOC offers a crisp white with bright acidity. The Lacrima di Morro d’Alba DOC provides a rich red with aromatic complexity, while the Rosso Piceno delivers a well-rounded red experience typical of the area.

The estate’s 45 hectares of privately owned vineyards also produce additional still and sparkling wines, along with grappa and Extra-Vergine Olive Oils, which may be available for tasting or purchase. The focus remains on quality, regional authenticity, and local specialties.

The Tasting Experience and Food Pairings

After the guided tour of the cellar and vineyards, guests are invited to sample the three selected wines either indoors in the barrel room or outdoors overlooking the vineyards. Each wine is served alongside a delicious platter of local meats and cheeses, showcasing the region’s flavors.

The savory platter complements the wines perfectly, enhancing the tasting with regional meat and cheese varieties. The pairing enhances the appreciation of the wines’ nuances and regional character, making this an engaging culinary experience.

Meeting Point and Tour Logistics

The tour departs from Antica Cantina Sant’Amico, located at Via Sant’Amico, 4, Morro d’Alba. This private tour ensures that only your group participates, providing a more intimate experience. The tour includes the wine tasting and food tasting, with most alcohols available for purchase afterwards.

Participants should note that confirmation is received immediately upon booking. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals, and is designed to accommodate small groups. Since most bookings are made 14 days in advance, planning ahead helps secure a spot.

The Unmistakable Charm of the Estate

Visitors consistently praise the charming atmosphere of the estate and the knowledgeable guides, especially when they detail the history and traditions of the winery. Reviewers highlight how the old wine cellar and vineyard views make the experience memorable, with one describing the scenery as beautiful.

The local host is often mentioned as warm and engaging, helping to make the tour both informative and enjoyable. The delicious olive oils and regional wines are frequently noted as highlights, with many eager to purchase products directly from the estate.

Pricing, Booking, and Cancellation Policy

At $34.39 per person, this tour offers excellent value for a private visit to a historic winery with a tasting of three native wines and regional foods. The full cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled experience, providing flexibility.

Since bookings are typically made 14 days in advance, it’s advisable to plan ahead, especially during peak seasons. The tour’s small group size and personalized approach make it a favorite among those seeking an authentic, immersive experience.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about regional varieties and traditional winemaking. It also suits visitors interested in history, local culture, and regional gastronomy. The scenic vineyard setting and intimate guided tour appeal to those seeking an authentic, relaxed atmosphere.

Participants should be comfortable walking and standing, as the tour includes a visit to the vineyard and cellar. It’s a great choice for couples, small groups, or dedicated wine lovers looking for an engaging and informative visit.

Final Thoughts on the Le Marche Historic Winery Tour

The Wine Tour and Tasting at Le Marche’s Oldest Wine Estate stands out for its authenticity, history, and regional focus. The guided visits to the original cellar, combined with a tasting of authentic native wines, create a memorable experience. The pairing with local meats and cheeses adds a delightful culinary dimension.

While the tour’s duration is brief, the depth of history and quality of wines compensate, providing a rich snapshot of Le Marche’s viticultural heritage. The private setting and scenic vineyard views make it especially appealing to those who prefer a personalized, relaxed experience. Booking in advance is recommended to secure a spot, especially during busy periods.

This tour offers a wonderful opportunity to explore Italy’s wine traditions in a beautiful, historic setting, making it a not-to-miss experience for anyone visiting the Ancona region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, the tour begins at the specified meeting point at Via Sant’Amico, 4, Morro d’Alba. Participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from the estate.

Can I purchase additional wines or products during the tour?
Yes, most of the estate’s other wines, spirits, and olive oils are available for purchase after the tasting.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
The experience is centered on wine tasting; non-drinkers may wish to explore the estate grounds and enjoy the scenery, but the official tasting is limited to adults.

How long does the tasting last?
The entire experience, including the guided visit and tasting, lasts approximately 1 hour.

What should I wear for the outdoor vineyard visit?
Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking are recommended, especially if the weather is warm and you plan to walk among the vines.

Are there any food options besides the meat and cheese platter?
The tour specifically features a regional meat and cheese platter as part of the tasting, with no mention of other food options.

Is the tour conducted in multiple languages?
While not explicitly specified, reviews mention engaging in Italian and English, suggesting that guides are bilingual or can accommodate language preferences.

Can I bring service animals?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the tour are not refundable.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made 14 days in advance, making early planning advisable, especially in high season.