Offida

"Offida" is the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) that identifies three different types of wines, both white and red. In particular, they include: Offida Pecorino, Offida Passerina and Offida Rosso.

Grapes

The composition of Offida wines depends on the type. Pecorino is produced with a base of grapes from the same name, at least 85% present. For the rest, other non-aromatic white grapes suitable for cultivation in the Marche region can be used. The same applies to the Passerina variant, where the homonymous variety is present at 85%, while the rest can come from non-aromatic white grapes of the Marche. Finally, for the Rosso, the fruits of Montepulciano are used, for a share equal to or greater than 85%, to which are added other non-aromatic red grapes.

Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties

Offida Passerina (minimum total alcoholic strength by volume 11.50% vol.) is a white wine with a straw yellow colour, embellished with golden reflections. The scent is characteristic and pleasant, free notes of fruit with yellow flesh and hints of citrus. The palate is fresh and mineral, with a persistent aftertaste. Offida Pecorino (12.00% vol.), on the other hand, is a wine with a straw yellow hue, with greenish reflections. The pleasant aroma is enriched by notes of white flowers and pineapple, as well as hints of anise and sage. The taste is fresh and persistent, with savory minerals. Finally, Offida Rosso (13.00% vol.) is a ruby red tending to garnet. It impresses the nose with its notes of red fruits and hints of licorice and chocolate. The taste is soft and ample.

Grape production area

Offida is produced in a territory that ranges from the coastal plain to the middle hill, in the south of the Marche, divided between the provinces of Ascoli Piceno and Fermo.

Specificity and historical notes

The wine-growing tradition of the Piceno region has millenary roots, as evidenced by numerous writings and documents. Some of the greatest Latin authors talk about it, such as Cato, Varro, Columella, Pliny the Elder.