The small Matelica Valley is visually the only landlocked valley in the Marche region due to its unique territory nestled between the Apennines, sitting close to the Umbrian border. Its isolated position at distance from the main roads also sets it apart from other parts of the region and creates a more harmonious environment for the production of high-quality grapes. Verdicchio has historical roots dating back to well before the 7th century, putting this grape amongst a handful of truly indigenous Italian grape varieties.

The mineral-rich ancient clay-based limestone soils that are unique to Le Marche’s territory are a key factor that enables Verdicchio to thrive. The vineyard climate is influenced heavily by the Apennines Mountain ranges, there is more of a protected continental climate here resulting in large temperature variations between day and night that maintain acidity and freshness in the grape - a perfect place for long time Italian enologist Stefano Zoli to grow his pure, crystalline Verdicchio.

Stefano owns a 1 HA plot with vines a little over 60yrs old facing the ideal south/east exposure (430m altitude). He only focuses on the one grape and one wine, Verdicchio di Matelica, where he producers’ around 6K bottles each vintage. Stefano generally harvests his fruit in approx. a week later than the more coastal Verdicchio dei Castelli dei Jesi. Verdicchio from the Matelica DOC compared to the Castelli dei Jesi, express themselves in a more fragrant, detailed and tighter framed way, and the Zoli verdicchio is true to type.A delicious aperitivo/entree wine with versatility for much more. - Importer Notes