Colle Stefano Verdicchio di Matelica 2009

Colle Stefano is a small 4 hectar wine producing farm in the Marche owned by Fabio and Silvia Marchionni. At 420 meters (1,377 ft) above sea level and naturally irrigated by the Esino river it's no wonder that Colle Stefano has been organic since 1995. They give special attention to the soil by planting pluriannual grass meadows which are composed of different herb species. It's this kind of care that makes their wine one of the most respected in the Matelica.  

This verdicchio is classically floral on the nose, but crisp, light to mid weight, fresh and racy on the palate. It can certainly be had on the porch all by itself and seamlessly make the transition to lunch or dinner. It's enjoyable and not the least bit controversial which makes it perfect for a group of people. Even grumpy Aunt Gertrude likes it.

Colle Stefano Verdicchio di Matelica  $17/bottle

meet the grape

Verdicchio
Beautifully round and green in color Verdicchio (verde) makes anything from easy drinking fresh wines to rich unctuous age worthy wines with spice and length. Verdicchio mostly makes its home in the Marche region of Italy and is commonly known in two DOCGs - Verdicchio di Matelica and Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi.  Several legends exist regarding Verdicchio di Matelica and one such story claims Verdicchio was given to the troops of the king of the Visigoths, Alarich (370 - 410 AD), when they marched on Rome. It was noted that Verdicchio would give them strength. Hmmm. Perfect for a long weekend then, huh?