Verdicchio

Verdicchio Bianco, more commonly known simply as Verdicchio, is one of Italy’s most distinctive white grape varieties. Native to the Marche in central Italy, Verdicchio thrives particularly well in the rolling hills between Jesi and Matelica, where it gives rise to two of the region’s most celebrated appellations: Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi DOC and the more inland and lesser-known Verdicchio di Matelica DOC.

The name "Verdicchio" is derived from the Italian word verde, meaning green, referring to the grape's slightly green-tinged skin even when fully ripe, a characteristic that hints at its fresh, vibrant style.

Verdicchio is often associated with fresh, easy-drinking white wines with bright acidity and citrusy aromas, but to stop there would be to underestimate its potential. This noble variety is incredibly versatile and capable of producing structured, complex wines that age beautifully. In fact, some of the best Verdicchios can develop nutty, honeyed notes over time, making them suitable for cellaring.

In addition to still wines, Verdicchio is also used to produce sparkling wines, both using the Charmat (Martinotti) method and the more prestigious Traditional Method (Metodo Classico). You’ll even find sweet and late-harvest Verdicchio wines, further showcasing the grape’s flexibility and character.

In the past decade, Verdicchio has enjoyed a resurgence in popularity, thanks in large part to the work of small, independent winemakers who are committed to quality over quantity. By lowering yields, focusing on organic practices, these producers have elevated Verdicchio from a simple table wine to a serious contender among Italy’s finest whites.

Recent genetic studies have suggested a strong link between Verdicchio and Trebbiano di Soave (also known as Trebbiano di Lugana). It’s believed that Verdicchio may have originated from Trebbiano vines brought to the Marche region centuries ago by merchants from the Veneto. Despite this possible connection, Verdicchio has developed a unique identity, firmly rooted in the terroir of the Marche.