1. The Truffle Trail:
Marche is famous for its truffles, and a visit to the region would be incomplete without trying this unique delicacy. Start your truffle journey in Acqualagna, known as the truffle capital of Italy. In this town, you can join a truffle hunt to witness the skilled truffle dogs in action. Afterward, indulge in a truffle-based lunch featuring dishes like homemade tagliolini pasta with truffle sauce. Continue your journey to Norcia, a nearby town renowned for its black truffles. Explore the local markets, meet truffle hunters, and savor truffle-infused delights such as flavored oils, cheeses, and salami.
2. The Seafood Safari:
Marche is bordered by the Adriatic Sea, making it a prime destination for seafood enthusiasts. Begin your seafood safari in the lively fishing village of Portonovo, where you can enjoy fresh seafood dishes overlooking the scenic bay. Try local specialties like Moscioli, a type of wild mussel, or the traditional Brodetto alla San Benedettese, a fish stew flavored with tomatoes, garlic, and saffron. Next, head to the ancient port town of Ancona, known for its vibrant fish market. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere and sample an array of seafood delicacies, including the succulent Stoccafisso all’Anconetana (dried codfish).
3. The Wine Route:
Marche is home to several esteemed vineyards and wineries that produce high-quality wines. Embark on the wine route to discover the region’s top-notch vintages. Start your journey in the scenic town of Urbino, famous for its Renaissance architecture and rich wine heritage. Visit the local wineries and indulge in wine tastings, accompanied by traditional Marche cuisine. Continue to the picturesque town of Jesi, renowned for its Verdicchio wine. Explore the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and sample different varieties of Verdicchio. Don’t forget to pair your wine with mouthwatering local specialties such as olive ascolane (stuffed olives) and vincisgrassi (lasagna).
4. The Cheese Expedition:
Cheese lovers will find paradise in Marche, where a wide variety of artisanal cheeses are produced. Start your cheese expedition in Pioraco, a small town famous for its Pecorino cheese. Visit local dairy farms and witness the cheese-making process, from milking the sheep to aging the cheese. Indulge in tastings and learn about the different flavors and textures of Pecorino. Next, head to the town of Cascia to explore the production of Casciotta d’Urbino, a traditional Marche cheese. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the cheese-making techniques and taste the creamy, nutty flavors of this regional delicacy.
No matter which itinerary you choose, exploring the food and wine of Marche promises to be an unforgettable culinary journey. Immerse yourself in the flavors, traditions, and hospitality of this beautiful region, and savor every delicious moment.