We expected an “unusual” edition of Grenaches du Monde 2021, made itinerant because of the pandemic. Instead, it turned out to be a truly interesting opportunity to get even closer to Grenache-based wines and to discover the Marche region.
Alongside the competition staff—Frédéric Galtier, Project Manager of the competition, Eric Aracil, director of the CIVR of Roussillon, and Maurizio Valeriani, the Italian coordinator of the contest—the initiatives on the territory were also supported by Tu.Ris.Marche, a cooperative specializing in tourism and cultural activities in the region that hosted us.
Ascoli Piceno rose to the occasion for the event, but it was truly the entire Piceno territory that became the protagonist. Starting with the impressive Palazzo dei Capitani, the venue of the competition, continuing through the historic cafés of Piazza del Popolo, which welcomed us for lunch, and not forgetting the landscape itself: a succession of hills and valleys, all perfectly cultivated and orderly.
A land that immediately became the perfect stage for the wines in competition, particularly for the Grenaches of the Marche, whether one prefers to call them “Bordò” or Piceno Grenaches. Wines of great quality that we had the chance to taste in truly breathtaking settings.
A competition that was genuinely enjoyable.
Juries capable of deep technical analysis, yet also characterized by a strong spirit of sharing. A spirit that continued throughout the many events organized during these three days in the Marche region—from the visit to Cantina Pantaleone, to Poderi San Lazzaro, and finally to Le Caniette.
The final dinner took place in Grottammare, at L’Attico sul Mare, once again accompanied by the wines—not only Grenache—of the Marche producers who guided us through this journey.
For me, this was the second year, and in this context I now truly feel at home.
Beyond the connection I’ve developed with this grape variety, the atmosphere of this competition—professional but never overly formal—is capable of winning over anyone who has the pleasure and honor of participating.
Describing a feeling through images is always very difficult.
I wonder if I managed to do it…
