Biancame, also known as Bianchello or Greco di Bianchello, is an ancient white grape variety from central Italy, historically linked to the northern Marche region and documented since at least the 17th century. Its identity is closely associated with the hills of the province of Pesaro and Urbino and, in particular, with the Metauro valley, where it forms the basis of Bianchello del Metauro, a designation recognised in 1969. Local tradition traces its presence back to even more ancient times, linking it as far back as the events of the Battle of the Metauro in 207 BC.
The vine exhibits medium to high vigour and has medium to large leaves, generally pentagonal and five-lobed. The bunch is long, cylindrical or conical, compact, and often has one or two wings. The berries are medium-sized, spherical, with a thin, speckled skin that is green-yellow in colour, tending towards golden as they ripen, and juicy flesh with a neutral flavour.
The main growing area includes the Metauro valley, the hills around Fano and part of Romagna, particularly in the Colli di Rimini area. The wine is characterised by a pale straw-yellow colour, sometimes with greenish highlights, and by delicate aromas of white flowers, apple, peach, citrus and fresh almond. On the palate, it is fresh, savoury and harmonious, with a light to medium body, and a dry, slightly bitter finish. The finest examples can age for several years, developing more mature, honeyed and mineral nuances.