Wines of Le Marche — part 1: Verdicchio
Praised by the ancient Romans and Alaric the Goth, Verdicchio was first grown by the Etruscans, and passed into history on the banqueting tables of Charlemagne and all the local lords (Montelfeltro, Malatesta, Sforza and Della Rovere).
The verdicchio grape is peculiar to the Esino Valley near Jesi, and to the wineyards around Matelica (where the wine has a noticeably different flavour). The breezy climate of the valley keeps the air free from diseases and allows the vines to flourish. The most classic type is the one known as Castelli di Jesi. It comes in a number of categories: Spumante (sparkling), Passito (made from grapes dried on straw, lending a sweetness to the wine), Classico (minimum 11.5% alcohol), Superiore (minimum 12%), and Riserva (minimum 12.5%, aged for two years, with six months in the bottle).
A light, straw-colored wine with a delicate fruity aroma, Verdicchio has a hint of bitter almond that gives it a nice bite. It is an excellent accompaniment to salads, cold meats, and especially fish. Chilled Passito is a good aperitif, besides being an ideal dessert wine.
Find out more about Verdicchio here.
