Vernaccia di Pergola (Aleatico) is a variation of the French Varietal Muscat grown in the Province of Pesaro & Urbino in the Central Italian Region of the Marche. The Varietal is named after the municipality of Pergola whose surrounding hills host the majority of the Aleatico vines grown in the DOC. Even though the wines of the Pergola DOC can be traced back to the 1300’s the Vernaccia di Pergola DOC was not recognized by the Italian Government until 2005. The newly awarded DOC encompasses the Municipalities of Fratte Rosa, Frontone, Serra Sant’Abbondio, San Lorenzo in Campo and Pergola, it allows for the production of Still Red, Rose, Sparkling and Passito Style Dessert Wines to be made with Vernaccia di Pergola being the main component to varying percentages no less than 60% to no more than 85% along with other red varietals typical of the Marche which include among others Montepulciano, Sangiovese and Ciliegiolo.

In the glass the Pergola Rosso wines are a ruby red color with purple and violet reflections.
Vernaccia di Pergola Grapes

On the nose they tend to be highly aromatic and floral with a combination of aromas of roses, violets, strawberries, blackberries, irises and carnations. The palate is complex with flavors of ripe cherry, currants, pomegranate, white pepper, cinnamon and cloves along with well-structured tannins, bright acidity and a persistent finish.

They will pair well with Red Meats, Stews, Meaty Pasta Dishes, Salumi and Aged/ Spice Crusted Cheeses.